Activities
Osaka Castle Illuminage 2024-2025
Kim BergströmThe Osaka Castle Illuminage event brings historically-themed lights to this popular attraction.
Osaka Castle Park is a public urban park and a historic site in the prefecture of the same name. It is the second largest park in the city and, in combination with Osaka Castle, is a popular photo opportunity.
The castle park is located in the south of Ōkawa and occupies a large area in the center of the city of Osaka, a total of about two square kilometers. In addition to extensive green areas and sports facilities, it also includes a multi-purpose arena (Osakajo Hall) and a shrine dedicated to Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a Japanese commander and politician who made a decisive contribution to the unification of modern Japan. He built Osaka Castle in 1583 in order to rule over Japan from there.
In early April, Osaka Castle Park is one of the most popular places to see the cherry blossom.
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The Osaka Castle Illuminage event brings historically-themed lights to this popular attraction.
Osaka Castle Park surrounds a majestic 16th century castle, perfect spot for you to have a glimpse of the greener side of Osaka
Osaka Castle Park is home to a significant part of history in Osaka. Home to Osaka Castle, the Hokoku Shrine and other historical monuments, it is filled with cherry, apricot and plum trees, all set in a large and beautiful park.
Osaka Castle Park 8 - Pretty flowers in Osaka Castle Park: Whenever something curious, beautiful, or interesting caught my eye, I took photos of them.
Osaka Castle Park 2 - Hōkoku Shrine: This shrine was built in 1879 enshrining Toyotomi Hideyoshi by the order of Meiji Emperor.
Osaka Castle Park 7 - Kyoikuto in Osaka Castle Park: A memorial tower built in 1936 for the victims of disasters that occurred in Japan.
Osaka Castle Park 5 - Shudo-kan and the site of Ishiyama Honganji Temple. Practice place for Japanese martial arts like Kendo, Judo, and Kyudo (archery)
Osaka Castle Park 5 - Beauties at Hōkoku Shrine: Curious things I found at Hōkoku Shrine, Osaka Castle Park. Keep your eyes open! Look closely!
Osaka Castle was built more than 400 years ago, when the military commander Hideyoshi Toyotomi completed the military unification of the country. Toyotomi commenced the construction of the Castle in 1583, and it took two years to completed it. The life of the Castle has not been easy. In 1598 the statesman Tokugawa Ieyasu destroyed the Castle, which was soon rebuilt by Tokugawa clan, and 40 years later the castle tower was burned down. The current castle tower was rebuilt in 1931 thanks to donations of citizens. Major renovations were also carried out in 1995, to restore the castle tower to its former splendour.
At Osaka Castle Park, one can enjoy the cherry blossoms blooming alongside the famous Osaka Castle. The park has over 4300 cherry trees on its grounds.
If you're a gyoza lover who will be in the Osaka area in early May, be sure to stop by the Craft Gyoza Fes at Osaka Castle Park's Sun Plaza. The event is set to include a variety of gyoza types for attendees to purchase.
The Osaka Castle Illuminage event brings historically-themed lights to this popular attraction.
Osaka Castle is one of the city’s most iconic sites and draws numerous visitors to its spacious park and imposing keep every year. Osaka Castle was first built by warlord Toyoto...
Hotel MyStays Otemae is a perfect place for accommodation in Osaka, with subway access to Namba. It has good service, including English speaking staff and WiFi.
Close to Osaka Castle in Japan's third biggest city, this hotel is modern, comfortable and affordable.
The main attractive features of the Hotel City Plaza Osaka is the rooftop spa with a rest zone outside, and a variety of special restaurants.
Located on the top floor of Maraiza’s Landmark Square, the terrace offers panoramic views over Osaka Castle as well as a Japanese-style BBQ.
How many ways can I declare my love for tofu? Tenderly and melt in the mouth soft tofu in miso soup, with a reduced sweet miso marinade in a salad, or with a hint of sweetness in a dessert served in black sesame sauce.
Magatama's original concept was to run a cafe that also provides a space for full spectrum of people who can drop by for intercultural exchange. There are concerts and art exhibitions here as well, and guests are welcome to bring their dogs in this dog friendly cafe and community space
Osaka has been the capital of Bunraku, the traditional Japanese puppet theater, for many centuries. The National Bunraku Theater is a two-hall and exhibition room complex located in Chūō-ku, Osaka. The theater is now one of the few places where where the fascinating art form of bunraku can be seen. The complex opened in 1984 as the country's fourth national theater and became the headquarters of the Bunraku. The National Theater is operated by the Japanese Arts Council, an independent administrative body of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology. English programs and headphones are available. The performances usually take place at three-week intervals in January, April, June, July / August and November.
Kuromon Market, or Kuromon Ichiba, is a staple destination among tourists and residents alike thanks to its abundance of fresh fish, meat, fruits, vegetables, sweets, clothes, and household/ miscellaneous items. The over 170-year old shopping street extends 580-meters long and is home to approximately 150 shops. Peruse large, commercialized shops alongside mom-and-pop spots and immerse yourself in the preserved food culture of Osaka. The lively atmosphere of shoppers, street food vendors, and tantalizing aromas will make for an unforgettable shopping experience. The historic market, officially established in 1902 with the name Enmyoji Ichiba, quickly gained the nickname Kuromon Ichiba, which translates to Black Gate Market, due to the nearby Enmyoji Temple’s renowned black-painted gate. Although the temple was completely destroyed by fire in the early 20th century, the market’s name still persists today. Although Kuromon Market has become a popular tourist destination, it still retains an authentic feel thanks to its local shoppers, cultural offerings, and down-to-earth vibes. The street is full of exciting finds, so be sure to explore them all! Pick up some preserved and pickled vegetables, wasabi root, bamboo shoots, wagyu beef, fugu (blowfish), strawberry daifuku (mochi covered strawberries), anime merchandise, or second-hand kimonos, to name a few. Given that you are surrounded by food, why not try some as well? Thankfully, the market is a hotspot for street food and quick bites on the go. Try some takoyaki, grilled scallops, sushi, oden (assortment of meat skewers, meatballs, fishcake, and daikon radish in a light soy-flavored dashi broth), kushisei (deep-fried meat skewers), okonomiyaki, fresh fruit juice, and so much more. Make sure you come to the market hungry and enjoy Osaka’s cuisine! As you explore the market please be mindful of your trash and support the cleanliness of the area. Towards the southern end of the market is the Kuromon Information Center. The center is a wonderful place to unwind after hours of walking and offers a seating area, toilets, a diaper changing table, a baggage counter, a currency exchange machine, and Chinese- and English-speaking staff onsite.
Dotonbori, located along the canal of the same name, is a street in the Namba district of Osaka’s Chuo ward that epitomizes the city’s nightlife. The colorful area is an explosion of neon lights, mouth watering street food, retro vibes, clubs, stores, and bars. A popular saying associated with the street is kuidaore, which roughly means to go bankrupt after spending an enormous amount of money on food. To experience the essence kuidaore (responsibly, of course) be sure to check out this renowned partying spot and lose yourself in the contagious energy! Roots in the 1600s The historic street started in the 1620s as a theater district with kabuki and bunraku (puppet) establishments along the canal. Over the years, many theaters closed as people lost interest in the traditional arts, and unfortunately, most of the remaining theaters were destroyed in bombing raids during WWII. Today, Shochiku-za Theater stands as the only reminder of the street’s theater roots. Today Today, Dotonbori is one of Osaka’s top tourist destinations. When the sun goes down, flashy neon advertisements light up along the canal and streets. The rainbow of colors illuminates the night air, creating an exciting atmosphere that matches Dotonbori’s offerings. Walk along the bustling street and lose yourself in the tantalizing food smells, energetic chatter, and hypnotizing sights. Embrace Kuidaore Food Culture With a phrase like kuidaore associated with the street, there is no doubt that Dotonbori takes its food culture seriously. The street is one of the best places to experience Osaka cuisine, and the area’s flamboyant restaurants themselves are a feast for the eyes. You will need multiple nights to enjoy all of the street’s wonders! For a personalized and unforgettable experience, book a food tour with a local who can guide you through the best spots. Discover Dotonbori's top restaurants. See the Sights! After, while, or before you eat, explore the vibrant area. Seemingly every spot of the street is filled with dazzling lights, historic vibes, and unique charm. Listed below are some of Dotonbori’s staple destinations. Though be sure to explore off of the beaten path and discover the street’s many wonders yourself!