Kabuto and Jinbaori at Osaka Castle
Osaka castle was remodeled to be a museum with exhibits on the history of the castle. This is due to the fact that the castle was destroyed many times because of the battles that happened on the grounds like the Siege of Osaka and even in World War II. On the second floor of the castle you have the opportunity to wear a kabuto (Japanese Helmet) and jinbaori (surcoat) for 300 yen. These replicas allow visitors the chance to see how heavy the helmet was to wear and the surcoat to go with it. The jinbaori was made for armored samurai to wear in battle. It is considered a form of kimono like jacket called a haori. The style of the kabuto helmets in the photo started in the Azuchi-Momoyama period as a way to provide visibility and presence on the field. They also have swords available as props for the photo you take with the items on. Also if you do not want to try the armor items then they also have kosodes (basic Japanese robe) available.