Osaka Castle is a very iconic historic attraction in Osaka. When you see the majestic castle keep from a distance, you can immediately feel the atmosphere of an old Japanese castle. The white walls paired with the green roof look gorgeous and imposing, making it hard not to stop and take photos.
This time I visited Osaka Castle in person, strolling slowly along the paths inside the grounds while admiring the moat, stone walls, and surrounding natural scenery. After climbing the castle keep, you can also look out over the city of Osaka from above. The view is very expansive, and the exhibits inside let you learn about Toyotomi Hideyoshi and the history of Osaka Castle.
Tower of Osaka Castle | Review by Gina C
Other Reviews by Gina C
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Kumoba Pond
Located in one of Japan's premier plateau resorts, Karuizawa, this serene pond has become a staple on the tourist route. Once the surrounding area was a villa region for foreigners, it earned the nickname "Swan Lake" because swans would come to visit in the winter.
Stepping into Kumoba Pond in autumn, the sight before me was so beautiful it nearly brought me to tears! The maple leaves around the pond glowed red, layer upon layer of pure romance. The entire pond was dyed crimson, and the scene was so unreal it felt like stepping into an anime!
The most incredible part was the flawless reflection on the water! The moment the sunlight poured down, the deep blue sky and mountains covered in red leaves all fell into the water. It was so beautiful I couldn't stop pressing the shutter, and every photo was good enough to use as wallpaper.
Walking along the red carpet of fallen leaves, listening to them rustle beneath my feet, with a hint of autumn in the air—the soothing feeling was off the charts! -
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Goryokaku Tower
Goryokaku Tower, built adjacent to Goryokaku Park, offers a bird's-eye view of the Goryokaku Ruins, a special national historic site, from 90 meters above ground, and is loved by locals and tourists alike as a landmark of Hakodate.
Goryokaku Tower is one of Hakodate's most iconic landmarks. From the observation deck, you can clearly see the distinctive star-shaped fort in Goryokaku Park, and the view from above is truly spectacular.
On this visit to Goryokaku Tower, I looked down from the observation deck and took in the entire five-pointed-star-shaped moat and lush green park. The exhibits on the observation deck also helped me learn more about the history of Goryokaku and the Battle of Hakodate. -
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Drum Gate and Hospitality Dome (Kanazawa Station)
Kanazawa Station, the gateway to Kanazawa, is bustling with visitors as the Hokuriku Shinkansen arrives and departs, making it a hub for Hokuriku tourism. The eye-catching Drum Gate and Hospitality Dome, completed in 2005, are located at the Kenrokuen Gate (East Exit) facing the city center.
Kanazawa Station's Drum Gate is truly impressive! The enormous wooden gate was inspired by traditional Noh drums, and its design is distinctly Kanazawa. Paired with the transparent glass Hospitality Dome, it beautifully blends tradition and modernity.
On this visit to Kanazawa Station, I especially enjoyed taking photos in front of the Drum Gate. It feels different from every angle. During the day, sunlight shining on the glass roof gives it a modern look, while at night, the lights add a romantic atmosphere. It's a great place to take travel photos.
Kanazawa Station isn't just a place to catch a train; it's like a work of architecture worth admiring in its own right. After visiting in person, I felt Kanazawa's unique cultural charm from the moment I arrived at the station, and the city left a deep impression on me. -
