Hirakata Park

Hirakata Park, universally shortened to 'Hira-Pa', traces its origins to 1912 and is the oldest amusement park still operating in Japan, set beside Hirakata-koen Station on the Keihan line midway between Osaka and Kyoto. It keeps a friendly, nostalgic feel while offering a full range of rides, from the large wooden Elf coaster and the Red Falcon to a Ferris wheel and gentle children's attractions. The park is known for its inventive seasonal events and campaigns, a summer swimming-pool complex called The Boon, and in winter an outdoor ice-skating rink and illumination. Easy to reach by train from either city, it makes a relaxed family day out in the Kansai region.