Baekje Gate: A Landmark Connecting the Area with Ancient Korea
At the entrance to Miyuki-dori Shopping Street stands Baekje Gate, one of the best-known symbols of Ikuno Koreatown. Built in 1993, the gate represents the area’s historical connections with Baekje, an ancient kingdom on the Korean Peninsula, and has become a familiar landmark of the neighborhood.
The area was once commonly known as Chosun Market, a nickname that is still used by some local residents.
The Korean Wave and the Growth of a Popular Tourist Destination
Ikuno Koreatown became widely known as a tourist destination following the 2002 FIFA World Cup jointly hosted by Japan and South Korea and the subsequent Korean Wave, or Hallyu, boom.
The neighborhood developed into a large Korean cultural district extending from the area around Tsuruhashi Station, attracting increasing numbers of visitors. Since 2009, the Ikuno Koreatown Kyosei Festival has been held as an event that introduces the area’s culture and attractions, further increasing its visibility.
A History Shaped by Exchange Between Japan and the Korean Peninsula
Ancient Kudara-no and Ikai-no: An Early Center of Exchange
The history of the Ikuno area stretches back to ancient times, when it had close connections with the Korean Peninsula.
The area around present-day Ikuno Ward was once known as Kudara-no, and is believed to have been a place where many people from Baekje settled. During the Kofun period, a harbor known as Ikaits existed here. Protected from strong winds by the Uemachi Plateau, it was used as a favorable port.
The Nihon Shoki records the area’s role as a point of exchange with the Korean Peninsula. The place name Ikaino is believed to have developed from “Ikaits,” and the name remains part of the local area’s historical identity today.
Migration Before and After World War II and the Formation of the Market
Following the annexation of Korea by Japan in 1910, many Koreans came to Japan for work and settled around Ikaino. A Korean market developed naturally in the area even before World War II and became the foundation of the shopping streets, playing an important role in the local economy.
After Japan’s defeat in World War II and the independence of the Korean Peninsula, many immigrants temporarily returned to Korea. However, migration to Japan increased again amid events including the Jeju April 3 Incident of 1948.
Against this historical background, the area developed into one of Japan’s largest communities of people of Korean descent.
From Japan-Korea Normalization to a Multicultural Neighborhood
After the normalization of diplomatic relations between Japan and South Korea in 1965, migration continued and Ikuno Koreatown became a distinctive place where Japanese and Korean cultures intersect.
At one time, the neighborhood was sometimes viewed negatively as an unsafe area associated with foreign residents. Since the beginning of the 21st century, however, the Korean Wave has helped transform its image as a popular sightseeing destination, bringing large numbers of visitors and creating a lively atmosphere.
Things to See and Do in Ikuno Koreatown
Kimchi Specialty Shops: Discover Authentic Korean Flavors
Numerous shops operated by members of Osaka’s Korean community specialize in kimchi, Korean ingredients, and everyday goods. Visitors can choose from many varieties of kimchi and other Korean foods to enjoy authentic flavors at home.
Korean Restaurants: Enjoy a Food Walk
The neighborhood is filled with Korean restaurants, making it an enjoyable place for a food walk. Popular choices include grilled meat, jeon (Korean savory pancakes), and tteokbokki, along with many other Korean dishes.
Korean Cosmetics and General Stores
There are also many shops selling Korean cosmetics and miscellaneous goods. They are popular places to browse for the latest Korean beauty products, cute lifestyle items, and souvenirs.
Getting to Ikuno Koreatown
By Train and Bus
From Kintetsu Tsuruhashi Station, Tsuruhashi Station on the Sennichimae Subway Line, or JR Tsuruhashi Station: Approximately 15 minutes on foot.
From Momodani Station on the Osaka Loop Line: Approximately 15 minutes on foot.
From the Imazato Liner bus stop “Nakagawa-nishi Park-mae (Osaka Koreatown)”: Approximately 5 minutes on foot.
From Osaka City Bus Route 18, Miyuki-dori bus stop: Approximately 1 minute on foot.
A Vibrant Multicultural Neighborhood in Osaka
Ikuno Koreatown preserves the history and culture of Osaka’s Korean and Korean-Japanese community while continuing to evolve as a popular destination for visitors.
With its historic connections, Korean food, shopping streets, cosmetics, and lively atmosphere, the neighborhood offers a distinctive cultural experience within Osaka. Visitors can enjoy the area’s international character while discovering the history and traditions that have shaped this unique part of the city.