Ikuno

Ikuno Ward preserves many histories and legends dating back to the Heian period, and the ward name ‘Ikuno’ is said to derive from the ‘Ikuno Chōja,’ a figure associated with Prince Shōtoku. The ward borders Tennoji Ward to the west across the JR Loop Line, and to the south it borders Abeno Ward, Higashisumiyoshi Ward, and Hirano Ward along National Route 25 and the Hirano River. Although not certain, there is also the Oshikatsuyama Kofun, believed to be the burial site of Ōobase-no-Mikoto. In 1614 (Keichō 19), during the Winter Siege of Osaka, Tokugawa Hidetada is said to have camped here and won, and the area was then called ‘Oshikatsuyama’ (Victory Mountain). Today, traditional events such as danjiri processions and Jizō-bon festivals are held, giving the area a warm downtown character. In Momodani, Ikuno Ward, you can also find the Miyuki-dori Shopping Street—known as Ikuno Koreatown—an area where many resident Koreans live, and where markets offer a rich selection of foods, daily goods, and more.