Osaka Castle Museum stands majestically against a blue sky. Construction of Osaka Castle began in 1583 (Tensho 11) on the site of the Osaka (Ishiyama) Honganji Temple by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who aimed to unify Japan. The main tower, the central building within the castle's inner citadel, was completed two years later, but was destroyed by fire in 1615 (Genna 1) during the Summer Siege of Osaka, along with the downfall of the Toyotomi clan. It was rebuilt during the Tokugawa period, but was again destroyed by lightning in 1665 (Kanbun 5). Since then, Osaka Castle has remained without a main tower. The current main tower was built in 1931 (Showa 6) with donations from citizens at the request of then-Mayor Seki. Rebuilt after 266 years, the main tower stands 55 meters above ground, with five floors and eight stories. The golden decorations throughout, such as the shachihoko (a deadly fish) on the roof and the crouching tiger under the balustrades, sparkle brilliantly (it is a nationally registered tangible cultural property). It underwent extensive renovations from 1995 to 1997. You can get a panoramic view of Osaka from the observation deck on the 8th floor.