In Japan, Osaka Castle is considered one of the three major castles alongside Kumamoto Castle and Himeji Castle. Osaka Castle, situated in Osaka, holds a poignant history related to Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a figure associated with our painful past.
“Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s Chūsokaku in Osaka Castle”
Osaka Castle was constructed by Toyotomi Hideyoshi after he unified Japan. Built in 1783 under Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s orders, Chūsokaku was completed two years later. However, following the failed attempt at the “Imjin War” that Toyotomi Hideyoshi launched to conquer Korea, he passed away.
Subsequently, although Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s son assumed power, Japan became divided into East and West. After the defeat of the Western forces, including Toyotomi, in the Battle of Sekigahara, and the subsequent “Summer Siege of Osaka,” Chūsokaku vanished for a while.
“Reconstructed in the Edo Period but Lost Again to Lightning”
The Edo period, marked by Tokugawa Ieyasu’s rule, followed. Chūsokaku was reconstructed in 1665, but it was lost to lightning, leading to its absence. It was rebuilt in 1931, only to be lost again during the Osaka air raids following the Tokyo air raids in 1945.
The Chūsokaku we see today is a reconstruction after the war, made of reinforced concrete. It features an elevator to reach the 5th floor, and to access the top observatory, visitors must descend from the 5th floor and climb stairs to the 8th floor.
“Exhibits Related to Toyotomi Hideyoshi Inside Chūsokaku”
As Osaka Castle was constructed by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, the castle houses exhibits related to him. A diorama of the Battle of Sekigahara is also on display. However, photography is not allowed on the 3rd and 4th floors.
“Observatory on the 8th Floor of Chūsokaku”
The top floor of Chūsokaku is on the 8th floor, and after taking the elevator to the 5th floor, visitors need to climb stairs to reach the 8th floor. From the summit, one can overlook Osaka city, enjoying a refreshing breeze and a spectacular view.
“Admission Fee for Chūsokaku: 600 yen, Free with Osaka Amazing Pass”
The admission fee for Chūsokaku in Osaka Castle is 600 yen for adults. However, if you possess an Osaka Amazing Pass, entrance to Chūsokaku is free. Having the pass also allows you to enter without waiting in line, saving you time.
“Osaka, Japan – Osaka Castle, Chūsokaku”
- Address: 1-1 Ōsakajō, Chūō-ku, Ōsaka-shi, Ōsaka-fu 540-0002, Japan
- Phone: +81 6-6941-3044
- Website: Osaka Castle
- Operating Hours: 9:00 – 17:00 (Last entry at 16:30)