Panorama d'Osaka, ancienne et moderne

Visit two iconic landmarks in Osaka that represent vastly different time periods: a classic 16th-century castle and a modern high rise made of steel and glass.

Enjoy a scenic drive around the bay and through the urban landscape that connects Kobe and Osaka. Stop for photos of Osaka Castle, an imposing fortress at the edge of a lush park with more than 1,200 trees. Built in the late 16th century, magnificent Osaka Castle consists of 13 structures that include gates, moats and gunpowder storehouses. The nine-story dungeon at its center is adorned with golden sea creature ornaments and is so distinctive that the government has designated the castle an Important Cultural Asset and the cherished symbol of Osaka.

During your visit of the castle's exterior, you will learn about the castle's construction, particularly its massive stone wall. According to legend, the stones were carried there from all over Japan to display loyalty to hegemon Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who built the castle.

For a modern perspective of the city, you will ascend to the observation deck of towering Umeda Sky Building. Completed in 1993, the twin-tower high rise offers a stunning, 360-degree view of Osaka and beyond to Awaji Island. Nearly 3 million people live in Osaka, so you can imagine the urban sprawl nearly as far as you can see.