This is the 'Marked Stones Square' inside the 'Yamazato-maru Bailey'. When you cross the Gokurakubashi Bridge you can see it on the right side (Photo: Takako Sakamoto)

Ultimate Guide to Osaka Castle: 04

Marked Stones Square and bullet marks from WWII

Takako Sakamoto   - 2 min read

This photo story is to guide you step-by-step as you explore the Osaka Castle and the Osaka Castle Park. The fourth leg of the journey begins at the 'Marked Stones Square' inside the Yamazato-maru Bailey. When you cross the Gokurakubashi Bridge, you'll see these big stones scattered around in a spacious area. These are the stones used in the reconstruction of the stone walls after the castle ground was burnt down by Tokugawa's army in 1615. Tokugawa Shogunate ordered many Daimyo (lords) to rebuild the castle grounds, and their family crests were carved on some stones. When you finish scrutinizing the family crests on the stones, don't forget to look for the air-raid bullet marks on the stone walls beside the stairs leading to the castle. They were made during WWII by U.S. Air Force raids, but they don't stand out at all and I missed them on my first visit. According to the guide book I read, the chance of missing this spot is more than 98%! So, keep your eyes open and spot them! For further guidance, please refer to the links below.

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Takako Sakamoto

Takako Sakamoto @takako.sakamoto

I was born in and grew up in Tokushima prefecture, and have lived in many places since then: Nishinomiya, Kyoto, Nara, Mie, Tokyo, Kanagawa, Saitama, Chiba, Fukuoka and Fukui. I am currently living in Yokohama City. All the places I lived, all the places I visited, I have loved dearly. The histor...