Hirakata Park / ひらかたパーク

Hirakata Park in Osaka Prefecture is Japan’s oldest continuously operating amusement park and an absolute paradise for roller coaster fans and families. Set on a sprawling, hilly site, this lovingly designed park offers the perfect blend of nostalgic charm and modern thrills. Among the absolute highlights in the heart of the park is Elf, a spectacular wooden roller coaster that stretches majestically across the grounds. What makes this ride special is the incomparable, rattling sensation and the sound of the wood as the train races at high speed through tight, steep curves and over hills, creating plenty of butterflies in your stomach. Those looking for even more action can take a ride on the Red Falcon, a high-speed steel roller coaster that offers spectacular views of the entire park with its sweeping curves and steep drops. For daring adrenaline junkies, the Giant Meteo free-fall tower is a must-try, plunging riders into free fall from a dizzying height. A calmer, yet no less exciting, experience awaits on the classic whitewater ride or the giant Ferris wheel, from which you can see all the way to Osaka on clear days. The offerings are rounded out by interactive themed rides, a 4D movie theater, and beautiful seasonal flower gardens. In the summer, a massive outdoor pool draws visitors, while in the winter, the park transforms into a sparkling sea of lights complete with its own ice rink.