Osaka Castle

Built in 1586 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a prominent Japanese warrior, and politician, Osaka Castle was considered the country's largest and most important castle at the time.

The massive five-story, 42-meter-tall main tower is one of the highlights of your visit. The tower, which stands on a 14-meter-high stone base, houses a number of exhibits about the castle and the city's history. You should visit the top level for spectacular views of Osaka, which are especially appealing when the sun sets. The Hokoku Shrine is also worth visiting at Osaka Castle Park, as is Osaka's most well-known temple, Shitenn-ji, which dates from AD 59. This gorgeous shrine, which includes a five-story pagoda and a variety of other exquisitely adorned buildings, is known as Japan's earliest Buddhist temple. The Golden Pavilion (Kond), with its superb statues and paintings; the Lecture Hall (Kd); and a lovely covered hallway connecting three of the site's gates are just a few of them.

Place: Osaka Castle

Some of the best attractions near Osaka Castle are:

• Osaka Castle Park (Osakajo Koen)
• Nishinomaru garden
• Osaka Museum of History
• Hokoku Shrine