Carefully view a fascinating collection of currency history: gold coins, medals, and more
About this spot
A museum tracing the history of currency, located within the Osaka Mint compound along the Okawa River. The building itself is a notable red-brick Western structure built in 1911 (Meiji 44) as a thermal power station, worth seeing for its exterior alone. Inside, a wealth of treasures awaits: Edo-period gold coins (大判小判) and treasure chests (千両箱), medals and commemorative coins produced by the Mint, and more. An interactive area lets visitors experience the surprising weight of a treasure chest—both grandchild and grandparent will gasp at how heavy it actually is. Admission is free yet worth far more in content. After the food sampling and lively experiences of the shopping street, this quiet and intellectually enriching final stop provides a perfect conclusion to the day's journey.
Tips
About a 15-minute walk from either Tenmangi Station (天満橋駅) or Ōsaka Tenmangu Station (大阪天満宮駅); the walk along the pleasant Okawa River promenade is recommended. Admission is free. Open 9 am to 4:45 pm; the museum closes for holidays including year-end/new year and the cherry-blossom festival season. Check the official website before visiting to confirm opening dates.
Best time to visit
Allow approximately 1 hour. Closing time is 4:45 pm, so plan to enter by 3 pm
Access & map
〒530-0043 Kita Ward, Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture, 1-chome Tenmakita, 1-79 (北区天満１丁目１−７９)
Model course featuring this spot
Tenmakita (天満): Japan's Longest Shopping Street and Tenmangu Shrine
Osaka
Explore features & model courses
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