What other travelers are saying about Osaka Castle
The castle is beautiful and well worth a visit if the weather is good. Caveat: I didn't go inside the castle after reading other reviews and I'm glad I didn't. The queues were quite long and I don't think it would have added much to experience. I preferred to enjoy the views of the castle and surrounding park without handling the big crowds waiting to get inside.
Tip: visit the small gates/turrets on the edge of the moat wall and take a stroll along the moat wall. Fabulous views and almost no other people. You feel like you have the place almost to yourself.
We booked a private tour of the castle via get your guide. Castle was really interesting and great to look at. Was extremely busy instead but they had a good up only down only stairs system. The view from the top is really good (you can also get a great view of the castle from the history museum opposite) guide was knowledgeable and friendly. Gift shop was crowded but I got an awesome glittery magnet
**WARNING: TOURIST TRAP**
But a Good Tourist trap.
There is a reason Osaka Castle continues to be one of the most visited sites in all of Osaka. It is a beautiful, towering presence in the heart of a widespread campus offering a variety of options. From the Cherry Blossom Gardens to the boat ride around the Castle itself, there is a number of ways to enjoy the castle and its surroundings.
We enjoyed taking our family to the Castle itself to experience the history. The line was long, but thankfully we had purchased the Osaka Amazing Pass which allowed us to skip the line and make our way inside in a matter of seconds. I highly suggest this to avoid any delays. The Pass also gives you access to the Garden which is a separate fee if you do not have the Pass.
The Castle itself is several floors tall with each one telling the story and history. There is a gift shop in the lobby as well as some interactive elements on some floors. The roof provides a 360 degree view of the surrounding campus as well as great views of the city.
I recommend arriving to Osaka Castle early to avoid the swarm of crowds that start pouring in around 11AM-12PM.
I highly recommend experiencing this great tourist trap that is worth the experience.
Excellent place for anyone interested in the history and culture of Japan. The park and the castle itself are very impressive . The castle floors are full of the history of Osaka castle and the area. For anyone interested in the real history behind the Shogun TV shows, there is plenty on the real life people that the characters were based on, and their historical setting.
Special mention for the Japanese lady volunteer guide who I met at the museum area (not in the castle). Her English was excellent and what she had to say was very interesting and informative.
A famous historic castle in Osaka during the shoguns era. The castle and its surrounding views is incredible. Surrounded by a nice peaceful greenery park suitable for a good morning or evening jog (wish I came with my running gear).
The castle surrounded by high walls and watered trenches, just like any other fortress. However, this one sits on a mountain. The build is impressive for that era and today too.
The weather was perfect, making the outdoor experience i.e. walking enjoyable. There’s a crowd to get inside but the castle's exterior, views and surrounding green park are truly enchanting. A great place to jog or walk for sightseeing and appreciating historical and nature's beauty!
