Osaka Castle

Osaka Castle is one of Japan’s most famous and historically significant landmarks, located in the heart of Osaka. It was originally built in the late 16th century by the samurai warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi as a symbol of his unification of Japan after a long period of civil war. The castle played a crucial role during the unification of Japan in the Azuchi-Momoyama period and was a central figure in the Battle of Osaka (1614–1615), which marked the end of the Toyotomi clan's rule. The current structure is a modern reconstruction, completed in 1931, after the original was destroyed multiple times throughout its history. Despite being a reconstruction, it still features traditional Japanese castle architecture, with its large stone walls, a moat, and multi-tiered roofs adorned with golden ornaments. The castle’s central tower is five stories on the outside but has eight stories inside.

Shitennoji

Shitennoji Temple is one of the oldest and most significant Buddhist temples in Japan, located in Osaka. It was originally built in 593 AD by Prince Shōtoku, who played a crucial role in promoting Buddhism in Japan. Shitennoji is regarded as Japan's first officially established Buddhist temple and symbolizes the early spread of Buddhism in Japan. It was constructed to honor the Four Heavenly Kings (Shitenno) who were believed to guard the world from evil. Though the temple has been reconstructed several times due to damage from fires and natural disasters, it maintains its original layout. The central complex features a five-story pagoda which are designed in a symmetrical manner, typical of early Buddhist temple architecture.