Osaka Castle Park is huge, and reaching the castle takes about 20 minutes on foot from the nearest station. But don't worry, the route to the castle offers stunning photo opportunities that highlight the natural beauty and architectural grandeur of the park. Here are some of the key spots:
📍 Japanese Garden 📍
Overlooking Osaka Castle, this picturesque pond used to be a hidden gem. However, social media exposure has made it more popular, and fences have been added to restrict access to certain areas. To avoid crowds, I recommend arriving before 8 AM. Located about a 20-minute walk from Morinomiya Station, this spot is usually the last stop of the photoshoot, as many clients visit the castle afterward.
📍 PLUM GROVE 📍
Plum blossoms start blooming from the end of February to mid-March. This is a beautiful alternative for those who won’t be in Japan for the sakura season. The entire area is filled with a sweet fragrance, making it a unique experience for visitors.
📍 East Moat Spots 📍
This location features a scenic backdrop of metasequoia trees, making it an ideal setting for natural and vibrant shots. It's also a great spot for sakura season. Ducks are sometimes present, and kids enjoy feeding them. Right next to this area, you'll find the Forest Memorial Trees, Gingko Road, Autumn Garden, and a hidden set of stairs leading to a quiet spot. This is typically the first stop when starting from Morinomiya Station.