Ikuno-ku is located in the southeastern part of
Osaka City, and is adjacent to Higashiosaka City in the east, Higashinari-ku
of Osaka City in the north, Tennoji-ku in the west, and Abeno-ku,
Higashisumiyoshi-ku and Hirano-ku in the south.
The population and density of Ikuno-ku are the sixth
largest in Osaka City, but are declining. The number of foreigner
registrations is the largest in the city, and one out of four residents
here is of foreign nationality. The proportion of senior citizens
is also higher than the overall Osaka City average.
Ikuno-ku is a typical town of small businesses from
the pre-W.W.II. period. Athough the dense concentration of houses,
factories and shops along narrow streets is a fire hazard, traditionally
close human relationships contribute to an active local community.
The narrow streets require substantial redevelopment. The completion
of the Expressway Namba-Katae Line is eagerly awaited, as there
are few east-west avenues.
Inside Ikuno-ku run JR Loop Line, Kintetsu Nara
and Osaka Lines, as well as Subway Sennichimae Line, but none of
them go through central Ikuno. The extension of Subway No.8 Line
is strongly desired to provide the district citizens with railway
transportation for everyday life.
Many projects are currently underway to develop
the district into a comfortable residential area well balanced with
its commercial and industrial functions. In southern Ikuno new apartment
houses are being built for original residents, as well as many town
squares. Construction of urban roads and parks is also planned.
Residents of the Tsuruhashi area organized the New Town Development
Committee, which was followed by the establishment of the New Tsuruhashi
Redevelopment Association, both serving as a stimulus for residents-oriented
town development.
As aging of the population progresses in Ikuno-ku,
diverse services and assistances are being provided for senior citizens.
The municipal home nursing service center, Okachiyama, is among
them. Ikuno-ku is thus evolving into a comfortable town for all
its residents including senior citizens and handicapped residents,
who will all be satisfied with their life here.
Area: 8.38 square kilometers
Number of households: 63,512
Population: 133,626
Males: 63,927
Females: 69,699
(Estimated data as of September 1, 2010)
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