Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who unified the country during the Azuchi-Momoyama period (1568-1600), began construction of the tower of Osaka Castle in 1583 and completed it in 1585. The castle was later destroyed during the Osaka Natsu no Jin（summer campaign of Osaka） in 1615, but was rebuilt by the Tokugawa Shogunate in 1626. However, the castle keep was destroyed by lightning in 1665. In 1931, the castle tower of the Toyotomi period was reconstructed with donations from Osaka citizens. In 1955, the Osaka Castle area was designated as a Special Historic Site, and after the Heisei renovation from 1995 to 1997, it was designated as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property.
The inside of the building is used as a historical museum, with permanent exhibits such as the "Miniature Natsu-no-jin", a reproduction of the Osaka Natsu no Jin（summer campaign of Osaka） screen in figure form, and a full-scale model of the golden tea room that Hideyoshi loved. In addition, special exhibitions are held as needed.
The top floor is an observatory where you can see the entire city of Osaka. There is also a museum store on the first floor, where you can buy original items related to the warlords as souvenirs. The museum also offers a replica of a warrior's armor helmet and a women's kosode (short sleeves) for visitors to try on for 500 yen per person.
Highlights
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A symbol of Osaka designated as a registered tangible cultural property.
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From the Tenshukaku Observatory, you can enjoy a panoramic view of downtown Osaka.
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A variety of historical materials are displayed in the museum.
