Osaka Castle Park
Osaka Castle is not just one of the “things you can do in Osaka”…nooo, there are actually a few things you can do at Osaka Castle Park! If you want to explore Osaka Castle Park give yourself enough time to wander around!
Things to do at Osaka Castle Park
Spot the Pigeons (or a Pigeon Man)
During my visit to Osaka Castle Park there was a Pigeon Man feeding hundreds of pigeons. While he fed the pigeons they were sitting on and around him. If he walked a few meters to the left, the pigeons followed him. If he walked a few meters to the right the pigeons followed again. The pigeons (or the man) were legendary.
Stay until Sunset
Osaka Castle is set in the perfect location for sunset photos. From the Castle itself you can see the sun set over the city and from the entrance at Oteman Gate (opposite Osaka Prefectural Police Office) the sun playfully reflects on the water and buildings adding warmth to your photos.
Get Something to Eat
There are a few vendors around Osaka Castle selling drinks, snacks and ice cream, but in Osaka Castle Park (just before you enter the Castle area) there is one vendor selling the best corn on the cob and noodles! Cheap and delicious – it was probably the second best meal I had in Japan.
Shop for Souvenirs
The Souvenir Shop opposite Osaka Castle Park holds a great variety of souvenirs – here you can find anything from ninja stars to chopsticks.
Take a Nap
What to do when it’s hot and you are tired of walking around Osaka Castle Park? Take a nap! When you walk up the stairs of the wall directly behind Osaka Castle there are some benches and tables in the shade perfect for a power nap (or a picnic).
Enjoy the View
From the Castle and the Observation Deck you can see the magnificent views of the city and Yodogawa River.
Listen to Music
There are musicians scattered throughout Osaka Castle Park. Some of them play instruments, some sing along to the music on the speakers they carry around and some are really talented.
And The Castle
Oh yes, before I forget…the Castle! Osaka Castle is obviously the main attraction in the park and in the city – it is a truly magnificent structure! It features an observation deck and a museum inside where you can find a lot of artifacts on display.
As you can see, there is much more to Osaka Castle Park than meets the eye. It’s not just about the Castle; it’s a park of over a hundred hectares where you can have a royal time.
For more information about Osaka Castle Park, visit their website.