One Day at Osaka Castle

Today, I started the day around noon. Despite the noise (even through my ear plugs) during the whole night, I managed to get some ... let's call it rest :D Anyway, Oliver wanted to do some things on his own this afternoon, so I made up my own plans :)

View outside of my window

Today, I wanted to see Osaka castle. It was actually just one of the few points of interest in Osaka I knew about. After a quick search with Google Maps, I went there. Despite the early date, there were some Sakura trees in the park in front of the castle.

White Sakura in the Park in front of Osaka Castle

Osaka castle only isn't the attraction like I saw. Around the castle are numerous parks with many street performers and booths. Many people were already there, but this wasn't annoying at all. In fact, it was a really good place for relaxing ^^

Can You Already See the Castle?

The castle itself is a big museum with 7 floors. It has quite a history with many emperors and changes over time. For all of you, who want to know more about Japanese history and culture, I can really recommend this. And the view from the top is also beautiful. Maybe just a little bit narrow with all the people there ;)

Skyline of Osaka viewing the Northside from the Castle (I guess ;)

In the evening, I went with some new friends (introduced by Oliver and Jackie) to a 焼肉 restaurant (yaki-niku, means grilled meat). The meat and the beer was really tasty and we just payed ￥2100 per person for a 2-hour all-you-can-eat-and-drink :)

Old friends, new friends and some other dude ;)

The rest of the today's pictures ^^

Just a way with no people I found ^^
Well, they are harder to find in japan than you probably think ;)

Photo Theme of the Day: Osaka Castle

Looking from the walls in front of the actual castle

Part of everyday life: Street Performers

The Summer War of Osaka with miniatures

Nearly inside the Castle :)

The Golden Tiger and Dragon have some meaning for this castle
Unfortunately, I cannot remember it oO

One of the few Pink Sakura I found

Time passed and War still went on ...

How can they keep the castle so white?
Must be a hell of a work oO

Today's brunch: たこ焼き (Tako-Yaki, Octopus Balls)

Don't know why, but I can never get tired of Sakura :)