Discover Nishinomaru Garden: A Family-Friendly Oasis at Osaka Castle

Nestled within the vibrant city of Osaka, Nishinomaru Garden offers a perfect retreat for families traveling through Japan. This lush, expansive garden is not only a place of stunning beauty but also a historical landmark, providing an enriching experience for both parents and children alike.

Location and Access

Conveniently located on the west side of the iconic Osaka Castle in Chuo-ku, Nishinomaru Garden is easily accessible via a short, pleasant walk. Travelers can hop on the JR Osaka Loop Line to Osakajokoen Station or take the Osaka Metro Tanimachi Line to Tanimachi 4-chome Station, each offering a 10-minute walk to this verdant oasis.

Garden Highlights

Spanning approximately 20,000 tsubo, Nishinomaru Garden is famed for its breathtaking views of the castle tower and its vibrant seasonal displays. Particularly popular in late March to early April, the garden boasts around 600 cherry trees that create a pink wonderland during cherry blossom season. It's an ideal spot for hanami, a beloved Japanese tradition of picnicking under blooming sakura.

Unique Attractions

• Toyoshoan Tea Room: This charming tea room occasionally opens for special events, offering spectacular vistas of Osaka Castle through its traditional Japanese garden setting.

• Enshogura: Discover the Enshogura, a historical stone storehouse dating back to 1685. This structure is renowned for its durability, having been constructed to safeguard gunpowder during the Edo period.

• Osaka Castle Residence Ruins: Step back in time at the ruins of the former Osaka Castle lord's residence, a site that has transformed into a serene plaza after a devastating fire in the Meiji Restoration.

• Osaka State Guest House: Built in 1995, this remarkable guest house draws inspiration from Kyoto’s Nijo Castle Hakushoin, making it a picturesque venue for weddings and social gatherings.

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

Nishinomaru Garden's doors welcome visitors from March to October between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM. During the winter months from November to February, closing time is slightly earlier at 4:30 PM. To accommodate cherry blossom enthusiasts, the garden extends its hours until 8:00 PM in peak bloom season.

Admission Fees

The garden generously offers free entry to children of middle school age and under, Osaka city residents aged 65 and over, and individuals with disabilities (valid ID required). For adults, the admission fee is a modest ¥200.

Plan Your Visit

Bear in mind that the garden takes a brief rest on Mondays and during the New Year holidays from December 28th to January 4th. Families will appreciate the peaceful ambiance and the vibrant, changing scenery, making it a delightful day trip within the larger Osaka Castle Park. The park also features an array of amenities including sports grounds, a multi-purpose arena, and a shrine, ensuring a day full of exploration for both young and old.

Nishinomaru Garden at Osaka Castle is not just a park; it's a journey through time and nature that offers lasting memories for families exploring Japan. Plan your visit today and let the history and beauty of this remarkable garden enrich your family's Japanese adventure.