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There are great many things to do in Japan, and so are in Hirakata.
Hirakata is a canvas of endless possibilities – a palette of experiences that will paint your journey with colors of excitement, adventure, and discovery.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Hirakata:
1. Hirakata Park
Amusement park in Hirakata city, Japan featuring exciting rides and attractions.
What to see or do: Ride thrilling roller coasters, including the impressive Red Falcon. Take a spin on the Ferris wheel for panoramic views of the park and surrounding area.
Enjoy family-friendly attractions such as the Merry-Go-Round and Jungle Cruise. There are also plenty of food options and souvenir shops to explore.
Don’t miss: The park’s newest attraction, the wooden roller coaster called “Eirian,” which opened in 2020. It’s the first wooden roller coaster in Japan to feature a completely vertical drop.
Insider travel tips: – Hirakata Park can get busy during weekends and holidays, so visit during weekdays if possible to avoid the crowds.
2. Keihan Shopping Mall
A large shopping mall located in Hirakata City in Osaka, Japan.
What to see or do: Keihan Shopping Mall houses a variety of stores offering fashion items, including popular Japanese brands such as Uniqlo and GU, as well as restaurants and cafes.
The mall also has a cinema and a bowling alley for entertainment.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the mall is the Ferris wheel located on the rooftop, offering panoramic views of the city.
There is also an outdoor garden where visitors can relax.
Insider travel tips: Visitors can get a special discount coupon booklet at the information desk by showing their passport. The mall can be accessed directly from the Hirakatashi station on the Keihan railway line.
It is recommended to visit on weekdays to avoid crowds.
3. Hirakata T-SITE
A book and lifestyle store in Hirakata, Japan.
What to see or do: Shop for books, magazines, stationery, and other lifestyle products. Relax in the cozy reading area or in the outdoor garden.
Attend cultural events or workshops held in the store.
Don’t miss: The extensive selection of Japanese and foreign books. The store’s unique architecture, with its tall wooden bookshelves and open space.
The garden, which changes with the seasons and offers a peaceful retreat from the city.
Insider travel tips: Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds. Take the time to explore the various sections of the store, including the cafe and gift shop.
Don’t be afraid to ask staff for recommendations or assistance in finding specific items. Consider attending a cultural event or workshop to fully immerse yourself in Japanese culture.
4. Hirakata-kōen Station
Hirakata-kōen Station is a train station located in Hirakata, Osaka Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: As a transportation hub, Hirakata-kōen Station primarily serves as a gateway to various tourist destinations and attractions in the area. There is a shopping mall located nearby, as well as several restaurants and cafes to grab a bite to eat.
Don’t miss: If you happen to be in the area during cherry blossom season (late March to early April), be sure to visit the park adjacent to the station for a stunning display of Japan’s famous sakura trees.
Insider travel tips: If you plan on using the train station frequently during your stay in Hirakata, consider purchasing a prepaid IC card like Suica or Icoca to make transportation around the city more convenient.
Additionally, be sure to get a map and schedule for the train lines to ensure you don’t miss any of the nearby attractions.
5. Yamadaike Park
What to see or do:
Don’t miss:
Insider travel tips: bring your own food and drinks for a budget-friendly picnic, visit during the weekdays to avoid crowds, rent a paddleboat or swan boat for a more romantic experience on the lake.
6. Umenomiya Shrine
A Shinto shrine located in Hirakata, Osaka, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the beautiful grounds and picturesque gardens surrounding the shrine, as well as a variety of traditional Japanese structures and buildings.
The shrine also hosts several annual festivals and events.
Don’t miss: The impressive Torii gate and the stunning gardens surrounding the shrine, which are especially beautiful in the spring during cherry blossom season.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as there are several paths and trails to explore throughout the grounds. It’s also recommended to visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and to take advantage of the peaceful atmosphere.
7. Mitsui Outlet Park Jazz Dream Nagashima
Retail outlet mall featuring various stores and restaurants.
What to see or do: Shop for high-end and affordable brands such as Adidas, Coach, The North Face, and LeCreuset. Dine at popular restaurants including Shake Shack and Starbucks.
Don’t miss: The park’s beautiful garden area with a gazebo and pond.
Insider travel tips: Take advantage of discounts and promotions offered at various stores, and consider visiting during weekdays for a more relaxed shopping experience.
8. Hirakata Green Forest
A forest-themed amusement park located in Hirakata, Japan.
What to see or do: Enjoy various thrilling rides from roller coasters to a Ferris wheel, explore the forest trails, experience the 360-degree panoramic view from the observation tower, and visit the exotic animals at the zoo.
Don’t miss: The Gravity Max roller coaster ride that takes you straight 90° down! The soothing boat ride through the sea of trees is another must-do activity.
Insider travel tips: Avoid waiting in long queues by purchasing the Fast Pass that allows you to jump the line for certain rides. Don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for the amusement park activities.
Also, if you are interested in seeing the animal shows, check the schedule in advance and plan accordingly.
9. Yamamura Residence
A well-preserved traditional Japanese house that was owned by the Yamamura family for over 300 years.
What to see or do: Explore the spacious rooms, admire the intricate woodwork, and learn about the history and culture of the area. The residence features a beautiful garden with a pond, a tea house, and a traditional Japanese bath.
Don’t miss: The stunning irimoya-style roof with its distinctive design. Also, be sure to check out the breathtaking view of the surrounding countryside from the second floor.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the property has several levels and uneven surfaces. Additionally, check the calendar for seasonal events, such as cherry blossom- and autumn leaf-viewing parties.
Lastly, don’t be afraid to ask the friendly staff for any recommendations or information!
10. Hirakata-kōen East Park
Hirakata-kōen East Park is a spacious public park located in Hirakata, Osaka, Japan.
What to see or do: The park features several walking paths, playgrounds, a skating rink, and a large pond with paddle boats.
Visitors can rent bicycles to explore the park or participate in sports activities such as tennis, basketball, or baseball in the designated fields.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the cherry blossom season in early April when the park is filled with blooming sakura trees, creating a picturesque and serene atmosphere.
Insider travel tips: – Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy a leisurely afternoon near the pond.
11. Nozaki Park
Nozaki Park is a beautiful green space located in Hirakata, a city in the Osaka Prefecture of Japan.
What to see or do: The park has a serene and tranquil atmosphere, with a large pond as its centerpiece. There are several walking trails throughout the park that offer stunning views of the surrounding natural landscape.
Visitors can also enjoy a picnic or barbeque in designated areas, or simply relax and take in the beauty of their surroundings.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the park’s seasonal flowers, which include cherry blossoms in the spring and colorful foliage in the fall.
There is also a small zoo with a variety of animals for visitors to see.
Insider travel tips: – Nozaki Park is easily accessible by train from Osaka or Kyoto, and there is no admission fee to enter.
12. Asahigaoka Park
Asahigaoka Park is a spacious and scenic park located in the city of Hirakata, Osaka Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: The park offers a range of outdoor activities, including baseball, soccer, and tennis.
Visitors can also enjoy walking or jogging on the park’s cycling track, playing on the playground with their kids, or having a picnic on the spacious lawn surrounded by cherry blossom trees.
Don’t miss: Asahigaoka Park is known for its splendid cherry blossom season, which typically takes place in early April each year. During this time, the park is covered in shades of pink and white.
Insider travel tips: To avoid the crowds during the cherry blossom season, visit the park in the early morning or on weekdays.
Bring a mat or a blanket to secure a spot under the trees and enjoy a picnic with your friends or family.
There is no admission fee to enter Asahigaoka Park, and it can be accessed easily by public transportation.
13. Oyamazaki Town Historical Museum
Oyamazaki Town Historical Museum is a museum located in Hirakata, Japan that showcases the cultural and historical heritage of Oyamazaki Town and its surrounding areas.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the museum’s collection of artifacts and exhibits that include pottery, ceramics, paintings, and historical documents. The museum also offers interactive displays and multimedia exhibits to help visitors learn more about the area’s rich cultural history.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is the collection of objects related to the famous battle that took place in 1582 between Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Akechi Mitsuhide.
Visitors can also check out the museum’s library which has an extensive collection of books related to the museum’s exhibits.
Insider travel tips: The museum is closed on Mondays, but is open on most holidays. Visitors can take a train from Osaka to Oyamazaki Station and then walk a short distance to the museum.
Be sure to check the museum’s website for special events and exhibitions that may be taking place during your visit.
14. Nagara Shrine
Nagara Shrine is a beautiful Shinto shrine located in Hirakata, Japan, dating back over 1,000 years.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the serene shrine grounds nestled among lush greenery and traditional architecture.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the stunning vermilion bridge leading to the main hall of the shrine.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the annual summer festival, Nagara Matsuri, for a lively and colorful celebration complete with traditional music and dance performances.
Avoid visiting during midday to beat the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.