Hirakata is a wonderful city in the northeast of the Kansai region with so much to see, do, and eat. Getting to other areas like Dotonbori or Uji is very convenient, but there’s actually also a lot to do within the city itself. From prime shopping spots to local history and beautiful nature, Hirakata really has it all, and OEH is the perfect base for exploring Hirakata and beyond. Let’s take a look at the very best that Hirakata has to offer for your stay in Japan!
Experiencing Japanese History at Temples and Shrines
Shrines (jinja) and temples (otera) are a must-see during your trip to Japan, and Hirakata features many beautiful and sacred spots where you can pay your respects to Japanese history and culture.
Okami Shrine
Okami Shrine is a beautiful jinja just a 10-minute walk from OEH. It is dedicated to the dragon Takaokami-no-Kami, which offers rain and agricultural protection, so this shrine is considered a guardian by many locals.
In addition, Okami Shrine is revered for its ‘zero magnetic field’ where the north and south poles collide, so compasses no longer point north. It is said to offer a rejuvenating and calming energy, and some visitors even claim that they feel more powerful after visiting.
There is also a beautiful plum grove with over 100 trees, and the flowers and views from the hill are absolutely stunning, so it’s well worth a visit!
Ichijoji
Many of Hirakata’s temples have sadly been lost or destroyed over time, but some still stand. Just a four-minute walk away from Hirakata-koen Station is Ichijoji, a stunning, serene temple where you can enjoy a quiet moment of peace and reflection.
It is also home to a magnificent eight-hundred-year-old camphor tree known as Benkei-koma Tsunagi-no-Cho, which is connected to local folklore. Ichijoji is a hidden gem offering a tranquil and calming atmosphere for locals and tourists alike.
Yamada Shrine
Yamada Shrine near Yamadaike Park is another wonderful spot to experience the calming and sacred energies associated with Japanese shrines. It is connected to the history of Yamada Pond, an important irrigation source for over a thousand years.
This important shrine is very close to the beautiful Yamadaike Park, which is another great spot for viewing blossoms.
Prime Shopping Spots
It wouldn’t be a trip to Japan without some shopping, and there are plenty of options in Hirakata! From popular clothing stores to artisanal goods, you’re sure to find whatever your heart desires.
Hirakata T-SITE
This sweeping and modern complex is full of both trendy and traditional Japanese goods, ranging from the latest fashion trends to practical kitchen goods.
The fourth floor hosts LEAF, an indoor market of sorts selling a variety of handmade items from chopsticks to leather purses. These make for great souvenirs or even a treat for yourself!
Perhaps its most impressive feature is the TSUTAYA bookshop, which features a huge wall of books. There are so many options to choose from, ranging from Japanese textbooks to manga, cookbooks, and the latest fiction releases. You could easily spend hours in here!
Hirakata Mall
Hirakata Mall is another great option which is very close to Hirakatashi Station. It has many chain brands such as Hands, Kaldi Coffee Farm, and more. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes, ranging from fast food to traditional Japanese dishes. Overall, Hirakata Mall makes for a great shopping experience!
Second-hand Shopping
Japan also boasts several second-hand shops which sell high-quality items, and Hirakata is no exception.
Around half an hour away from OEH by bus is BOOKOFF SUPER BAZAAR 307gou Hirakata Ikenomiya Store, a huge store which sells fantastic pre-loved items ranging from clothing to homeware.
Just 10 minutes away from BOOKOFF is Second Street, another great option for thrifting vintage clothing and even designer items!
Delicious Dining at Cafes and Restaurants
Hirakata has a fantastic food scene, featuring an array of different cuisines. Let’s take a look at just some of the possibilities for enjoying Japanese food in Hirakata!
Indigo Coffee Roasters
Indigo Coffee Roasters is a must-visit in Hirakata. Just 10 minutes away from OEH, this cozy cafe sells delicious specialty coffee and yummy sweet treats. This is a great spot to start your day, and you can even purchase coffee beans to make your own coffee at home!
For a full guide to the best coffee shops in Hirakata, check out this post.
Matsuya
Matsuya is an absolute favourite here at OEH, and for good reason! The service is fast, the quality is great, and the price is low! You can choose from Japanese beef dishes such as gyumeshi (beef on rice), chicken katsu, and much more!
Saya Hirakataten
Izakayas in Japan are great fun, and there are plenty to choose from in Hirakata. Saya Hirakataten makes for a super fun evening with friends, especially if you choose to have a private room. There are all-you-can-eat and drink options, and many dishes are available, such as karaage and hotpots, and ice cream for dessert!
Top Attractions in Hirakata
There is plenty to see and do in the city of Hirakata, so let’s explore some of the top attractions near OEH!
Hirakata Park
Hirakata Park (also known as Hira-Pa) is just a 15-minute walk from OEH, and it makes for a super fun day out for children and adults alike. This amusement park is actually one of the oldest in Japan, and it is famous for its nostalgic, retro vibes.
There are many rides to choose from, but the large Ferris Wheel is a must-do as it offers stunning views of Hirakata. There are also seasonal events such as winter illuminations, ice skating, and pools in summer. It’s well worth a visit, especially in the evening to see the sunset and pretty lights!
Hirakata Performing and Visual Arts Centre
Hirakata Performing and Visual Arts Centre is another great spot for entertainment, offering live music and theatre performances. This modern venue has many event spaces with plenty of seating, and there are also some exhibition rooms for art and photography showcases.
The website has full details on all the upcoming events, so check out the schedule and enjoy some Japanese art!
To learn more about entertainment options in and around Hirakata, head over to this post.
Hirakata-shuku
For history buffs, head over to Hirakata-shuku for a glimpse into Japanese life centuries ago. There are many historic sites such as Kagiya, a former boathouse that was important for those travelling across Yodogawa River for around 400 years before being renovated into a local history museum in 2001.
You can visit a one-hundred-year-old miso brewery, and wander the streets of traditional buildings. It’s also worth checking out the area on the second Sunday of the month if you can, as there is a huge flea market selling artisanal goods!
Stunning Natural Sites
Japan offers some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the world. Hirakata has many lovely spots to enjoy. Let’s take a look!
Yodogawa River Park
Yodogawa River Park is a gorgeous park with stunning river views. Throughout the year, many events are organised, such as fireworks and flower displays.
There are running paths, BBQ areas, and plenty of open spaces. Packing a little picnic and watching the sunset with friends at Yodogawa River Park makes for a beautiful evening!
Yamadaike Park
Yamadaike Park is another beautiful spot to appreciate Japanese nature. Featuring a vast array of seasonal flowers such as irises in May, hydrangeas in July, and autumn foliage in November, it’s a beautiful spot to visit in any season!
Mt. Katano
For those interested in hiking, Mt. Katano is a great spot. Take the bus from Hirakatashi Station to Tsuda Station, and in just half an hour you’ll be ready to begin this moderate hike.
The views are absolutely breathtaking, especially in the late afternoon as the sun begins to set. The trails are well-maintained, but be aware that this hike can be a little steep, so make sure to wear proper shoes!
Grocery Shopping Essentials
Staying at OEH means you have access to a fully equipped kitchen, so you can make your own meals if you prefer. Let’s take a look at some of the best shops in Hirakata to buy ingredients for delicious meals!
AEON
Just a 10-minute walk from OEH is AEON, a large shopping complex with a fantastic supermarket on the basement floor. From fresh fruit and vegetables, to speciality fish, baked goods, and more – AEON has everything your heart (and stomach) desires. If you go in the evening, you might also be lucky enough to find yellow stickers offering discounts!
LIFE Supermarket
Located within Hirakata T-SITE, LIFE Supermarket offers a vast array of food essentials. It might seem a little more expensive, but the products are really high-quality, especially the fruit. This is also a great spot for plant-based alternatives such as vegan butter, soy meat, and more.
Lawson
Japan is renowned for konbinis – convenience stores that sell last-minute practical essentials. Lawson is just a 5-minute walk away from OEH, and it has pretty much everything you might need, 24/7.
The staff are very friendly, and there are also great discounts in the evenings, especially on bento boxes! You can pick up items such as milk, spices, cleaning products, and more. We love Lawson here at OEH!
Healthcare in Hirakata
It’s good to be aware of the important spots near OEH that you can head to for medical matters. From pharmacies to hospitals, and even leisure spots for exercise and relaxation, Hirakata is well-equipped to help you look after your health.
Medical Matters
There are two major hospitals near OEH. The first is Hirakata City Hospital, a government hospital featuring advanced technology within a wide range of departments. There is also Kansai Medical University Hospital, a large teaching hospital with a 24-hour emergency department.
For quick fixes, Sugi Drug and Matsumotokiyoshi offer over-the-counter remedies for common concerns such as headaches or pain relief.
Leisure Spots
If you want to relax, head to SkySpa! This stunning open-air natural hot spring offers many physical and mental benefits as you can relax in the hot water and enjoy gorgeous views.
For fitness fiends, Hirakata has plenty of gyms that are open 24/7, so you can exercise to your heart’s content at any time. LifeFit is opposite Hirakatashi Station, and it is well-equipped with modern fitness technology.
Transport Tips
Hirakata is very well-connected to major cities like Osaka, Kyoto, and more. Hirakatashi Station has many railway lines provided by the Keihan Line. For example, the Limited Express quickly transports you to stations such as Kyobashi or Yodoyabashi, while local lines have more stops and allow you to explore more of Kansai.
There are also plenty of bus services in Hirakata. The Keihan Bus takes you to both sides of Hirakata as well as neighbouring areas, allowing you to reach locations like the well-reputed Kansai Gaidai University, which focuses on foreign language studies, Kuzuha Mall, which has a fantastic cinema, and much more.
FAQ’s: Making the Most of Your Stay in Hirakata
Hirakata is a residential city between Osaka and Kyoto, but it has its own charms. It is perhaps most famous for Hirakata Park, a retro amusement park offering nostalgic fun for all ages.
Lawson is just 5-minutes away from OEH, and it has all the last-minute items you might need! For clothes, souvenirs, and more, head to Hirakata T-SITE.
This really depends on what you want to do in and around Hirakata. But since the city is more residential, prices are lower than in bigger cities.
Matsuya is a favourite at OEH, and Indigo Coffee Roasters is also highly worth checking out for delicious coffee and sweet treats.
Hirakatashi Station is just a 10-minute walk away from OEH. There are bus stops dotted all around the city, and the closest bus stop is also just 10 minutes away.
