On our trip to Osaka, my son and I visited a hidden spot that’s popular with Japanese locals.
It’s a hidden gem I’d love to share with anyone planning a trip to Osaka.
It’s the relaxed, cozy Hirakata Park,
a local favorite among Osaka theme parks that I especially recommend for families.
It’s not as famous as Universal Studios Japan, but in a laid-back setting you can enjoy rides, animal encounters, garden walks and night illuminations.
The Hirakata Park version of the Keihan Pass lets you visit for less than a regular ticket, making it great value.
Here’s everything you need: ticket discount tips, how to get there and the top attractions.
1. What Is Hirakata Park? Japan’s First Amusement Park
Opened in 1912, Hirakata Park is Japan’s oldest amusement park.
It’s in Hirakata, Osaka Prefecture, just a three-minute walk from Hirakatakoen Station.
When people think of Osaka amusement parks they think of Universal Studios, but Hirakata Park, loved by locals, is a little-known gem among Korean travelers. If you want to escape the crowds and take your time, Hirakata Park is the answer.
Each season has its own charm. In spring the whole park is covered in cherry blossoms, and in the evening dazzling illuminations light up the sky for a romantic mood.
Hirakata Park highlights
- A family-friendly park with about 40 attractions
- Everything from thrill rides to animal encounters and flower gardens
- Illuminations during evening openings
- Fun even without riding anything
Hirakata Park basics (as of 2025)
- Admission: 1,800 yen for adults (rides extra)
- Hours: 10:00 to 17:00 (varies by season and day)
- Location: Hirakata, Osaka, near Hirakatakoen Station
- Best time to visit: weekends, when evening openings offer illuminations
2. How to Get to Hirakata Park on the Keihan Line
Hirakata Park is easy to reach on the Keihan line connecting Osaka and Kyoto.
It’s about 20 to 30 minutes from central Osaka, perfect for a day trip.
Getting there by Keihan train is simple: get off at Hirakatakoen Station and walk three minutes.
Here is my favorite tip for getting a discount on admission.
3. The Keihan Pass Hirakata Park Version
The most economical way to visit Hirakata Park is with the Hirakata Park version of the Keihan Pass.
A regular adult ticket cost 1,800 yen as of 2025, but the Hirakata Park version of the Keihan Pass adds unlimited Keihan train rides for a day, making it far better value.
In other words, it pays off even if you only visit Hirakata Park.
Since it combines an Osaka and Kyoto transport pass with park admission, it’s worth it even for Hirakata Park alone.
Keihan Pass Hirakata Park version at a glance
- Lines: the entire Keihan line between Osaka and Kyoto
- Where to buy: in Japan and on online travel platforms
Note that the pass includes admission only, and rides cost extra.
4. Must-Do Experiences at Hirakata Park
1. Attractions
Hirakata Park has about 40 attractions for all ages.
Many thrill rides make use of the hilly terrain, perfect for thrill seekers.
Top 4 attractions
1. Troll Panic Pachanga: like the Amazon Express ride in Korea, six people ride a round raft down canyon rapids. Who gets soaked changes every time, so it’s a real thrill.
2. Crazy Mouse: a four-seat roller coaster that whips left and right like a busy little mouse.
3. Skywalk: a flashy aerial Ferris wheel with great views.
4. Merry-go-round: a two-story carousel. Ride upstairs for the view or downstairs for photos.
There are many more fun and unusual rides too.
Ride prices (as of 2025)
- Single rides: 100 to 700 yen
- Free pass: 3,300 yen for adults and elementary students, 2,000 yen for preschoolers
2. Rose Garden and cherry blossom season
You can enjoy Hirakata Park without riding anything.
The Rose Garden showcases many varieties of roses.
- Royal Rose Garden: roses linked to royal families around the world
- Fragrance area: roses with a variety of scents
- Celebrity rose area: roses named after actors and historical figures
- Hirakata original rose area: roses developed at the park
In spring, the park is also famous for cherry blossoms.
3. Night illuminations
Hirakata Park holds illuminations during evening openings.
- Rides and animals by day, a romantic atmosphere by night
- Especially dazzling light displays in winter
Travel Tips Around Hirakata Park
After visiting Hirakata Park, use the Keihan Pass to head to Kyoto or explore other sights in Osaka. One pass lets you travel freely between Osaka and Kyoto.
For anyone wanting a quieter Osaka theme park, especially with kids, Hirakata Park is a perfect choice. Don’t miss the illuminations.
Hirakata Park checklist
- Get the Keihan Pass Hirakata Park version in advance
- Check evening opening days before you go
- Compare single ride tickets and the free pass
- Time your visit for cherry blossom or illumination season
If you’re planning a trip to Osaka, add Hirakata Park, a local favorite, alongside the famous sights.
It’s affordable with the Keihan Pass and charming in every season, an ideal theme park trip with kids.
On your next trip to Osaka, experience the charm of Hirakata Park for yourself.
Prices, hours and details in this post are from our visit in March 2025 and may have changed, so check the latest information before you go.