Day 3 - Osaka Castle - Osaka Kobe Kyoto Vacation

Today we set off to visit the Osaka Castle which is within walking distance from our ryokan.

We entered via the Morinomiya station entrance. Osaka Castle is within an extensive park, the Osaka Castle Park, with a total area of 105.6 ha, located in the center of Osaka.



In the Osaka Castle Park are several historic structures including the castle tower, in addition to the Nishinomaru Garden with some 600 cherry trees, an ume (plum) orchard boasting 1,270 ume trees in 100 varieties, and other spots where visitors can enjoy seasonal flowers.



Here are some images of Osaka Castle Park.

Next we moved on to Osaka Castle (Osaka-jo) which is one of Japan's most famous castles. Osaka Castle played a major role in unifying Japan in the sixteenth century. First built in 1583 by one of Japan’s most fabled warlords, Hideyoshi Toyotomi, succeeded in ending century-long wars and using Osaka Castle as his stronghold.

The castle was built on about one square kilometer (less than a mile squared) of land, with two raised platforms supported by sheer walls of cut rock and surrounded by a moat. The central building is five stories outside, and eight stories on the inside. The thirteen structures that make up the castle have be designated as Important Cultural Assets by the Japanese government.

Osaka Castle was nearly destroyed during WWII, when used as one of the largest military armories. A full restoration started in 1995, and by 1997, had been completely restored to it's Edo-era days. The current castle is a concrete reproduction of the original castle, with a modern museum within.

A highlight of a visit to the castle is its fine collection of historical displays, its gilt details, and the great views of the city from the observation deck.

The castle is surrounded by parklands, which puts on a fine display at cherry blossom time. Look up to see the castle’s eight roof dolphins, ornamental roof tiles and golden tigers.

A short film on Osaka Castle and the city of Osaka




Here's our 10 day Osaka Kobe Kyoto itinerary.

Day 2 - Dotonbori - Osaka Kobe Kyoto Vacation

After our visit to the Kuromon Ichiba Market, we head towards Dontoburi.




Dotonbori is a popular tourist destination in Namba Osaka. Dotonbori is famous for its giant crab and other restaurants.

The south side of the canal, Dotonbori Street, is a home of 'Kuidaore' with various eateries where you will be amazed with the famous Osaka giant signs such as moving crab, puffer fish, dragon, etc. Try famous Osaka food 'Takoyaki (octopus balls)'.

Very creative graphics on the shop fronts

 The entire area of Dotonbori is thronged with an unbelievable number of restaurants and amusement facilities.

The north side of the canal is called Soemon-cho, where there are many restaurants and bars.

People, restaurants, shopping in Dontonburi

Be amazed by the crowds and the colour

Octupus sign and octopus balls 

The Dotonbori Canal

The Dotonbori Canal has often been used as a movie location for films such as 'Black Rain'. The area around the canal is referred to as Dotonbori. Both sides of the canal are always busy day and night.

As a domestic tourist destination, Osaka is known for its food, and Dotonbori is the main destination for food travel in Osaka. It is always featured in guidebooks for both foreign and domestic tourists.

Osaka regional cuisine includes okonomiyaki (pan-fried batter cake), takoyaki (octopus dumplings), udon (a noodle dish), as well as regional sushi and other traditional Japanese foods.

Here we are lining up for okonomiyaki (pan-fried batter cake).

The 40 minute long wait

Refeshingly yummy

Cooking it right in front of us

Here's our 10 day Osaka Kobe Kyoto itinerary.

Day 2 - Kuromon Ichiba market - Osaka Kobe Kyoto Vacation

Today we head out to the Kuromon Ichiba market. It is one of the most well known central food markets in Osaka, Japan.

It seems that this market has been around for over 170 years preserving the food and culture of Osaka.

Located on the south side of Chuo Ward, Osaka City, Kuromon Ichiba is 580 meters long, and is easily accessed by a 2-minute walk from the subway Nippombashi Station. It is a very lively market with lots of human interaction, and is packed with approximately 150 shops of mainly fish, meat and vegetables.

Walking through Kuromon market

All kinds of fresh food items are available at this market.

Spoilt for choice for fresh seafood

Fresh seafood cooked on the spot for you

Some of the seafood can be rather expensive

These crab claws are expensive

Still we have to try some .. like octopus 

Go early to aviod the crowds

And enjoy the atmosphere

And the memories

Try from one stall to another ...

Here's our 10 day Osaka Kobe Kyoto itinerary.