Sightseeing

Osaka Castle and
Historic Site Tour Plan

Osaka, also known as “the nation’s kitchen,”
boasts a rich history beyond just Osaka Castle,
once ruled by Toyotomi Hideyoshi.
The region is filled with historic sites,
castle ruins, and cultural heritage.
This tour offers a journey through the historical roots of Osaka by visiting its castles and ruins.

• 9：30

  Departure (approx. 30 mins)

  Depart from a hotel or station in Osaka City to Ikeda Castle Site Park.

• 10：00

  Ikeda Castle Site Park
  (approx. 30 mins)

  Ikeda Castle, originally built by local feudal lord Ikeda Noriyori, symbolizes the Ikeda clan, who once ruled Settsu Province. The site features a restored dry landscape garden and well, and from the observation rest area, visitors can enjoy views of the Big Harp (Shin-Inagawa Bridge) and the park grounds.

  

• 10：30

  Light Meal (approx. 15 mins)

  After exploring the castle ruins, enjoy a take-out sandwich from Apricot Ikeda. They offer a wide range of sandwiches, from classics like egg and pork cutlet to unique flavors like fruit (strawberry & banana), Nagoya-style miso katsu, and smoked salmon.

• 10：45

  Transfer (approx. 30 mins)

  Head to the iconic Osaka Castle, built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi.

• 11：15

  Osaka Castle (approx. 1.5 hours)

  One of Japan’s top three famous castles, Osaka Castle features enormous stones that seem impossible to have been moved by human hands and a five-layer, eight-floor main keep with golden embellishments. Although later expanded by the Tokugawa family, its spirit reflects Hideyoshi’s legacy thanks to passionate efforts by Osaka’s citizens.

  

• 12：45

  Lunch (approx. 1 hour)

  Enjoy lunch at Osaka Castle Park. Near Osaka-Jo Hall, JO-TERRACE OSAKA offers a modern take on castle-town vibes, with various restaurants including takoyaki, Korean cuisine, and Italian.

• 13：45

  Transfer (approx. 30 mins)

  Next, visit the Nintoku Emperor’s Tomb (Daisen Kofun) in Sakai, a massive keyhole-shaped burial mound with global recognition.

• 14：15

  Nintoku Emperor’s Tomb
  (approx. 1 hour)

  The largest kofun in Japan and one of the world’s three greatest tombs (alongside the Pyramid of Khufu and the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor), it is best viewed from the air to grasp its massive scale and keyhole shape. The site offers both aerial and ground perspectives.

  

• 15：15

  Transfer (approx. 30 mins)

  Finally, head to Kishiwada Castle, another site of Japan’s cultural heritage.

• 15：45

  Kishiwada Castle (approx. 45 mins)

  Originally renovated by Koide Hidemasa, the castle features the restored three-tiered keep and the Hachijin Garden, designated a national scenic spot for its historical significance in Japanese garden design. Inside the castle, visitors can experience historical exhibits and samurai armor try-ons.

  

• 16：30

  Transfer (approx. 20 mins)

  After visiting Kishiwada Castle, we’ll drop you off at Kansai International Airport or return to your hotel upon request.