Overview of Chuo-ku Area 8.87km2 Households 60,788 Population 95,500 (44,555 males, 50,945 females) Population Density 10,767 people/km2 (As of January 1, 2017)

Chuo-ku was established in February 1989 from the merger of Higashi-ku and Minami-ku. From out nation's first metropolis Naniwanomiya through the early modern-day construction of the Osaka-jo to today, Chuo-ku boasts its long history. As the central area of Osaka, an international city, it still continues to develop vibrantly.

In the Northwest area of the Ward, centered on Midosuji can be found the head offices of financial institutions, general trading firms and other major businesses. In the central "Semba" district are gathered textile related businesses, and "Kitahama" of securities houses, "Doshomachi" of drug companies, and "Matsuyamachi" of toys and dolls can all be found in the area which is home to lively economic activity.

The Northeast of the Ward with Osaka-jo Park and Naniwanomiya Ruins Park at the center is a green-filled oasis in the heart of the city. The vicinity of Osaka-jo Park centered on Osakajo Tensyukaku, where the Osaka-jo Hall and the Osaka Museum of History are located, plays a central role in the community as a destination for tourists from near and far as well as a gathering place for local residents. Furthermore, to the west of the Park are gathered the offices of the national and prefectural government and to the northeast Osaka Business Park serves as the new focal point for business and the area is developing.

The South of the Ward is known by the affectionate name of "Minami" and is a "Town of Pleasures". Around Shinsaibashi/Dotonobori are market streets, department stores and restaurants. Kuromon Market known as the "Kitchen of Minami" teems with activity. And in America-mura and Europe-mura, which are home to many trendsetters, a young popular culture thrives and in underground complexes such as Nanba Walk and Christa Nagahori numerous people are gathered. In the Southeast of Nakadera, Tanimachikaiwai, are numerous temples and shrines connected with Chikamatsu Monzaemon and Ihara Saikaku, and a calm historic mood can be found. Slightly to the west is the National Puppet Theatre which serves a vital role in Kansai culture as a base for the fine arts.

Chuo-ku aims at maintaining its rich history and culture while serving as the center of the new era's economy and culture. Chuo-ku is the central Ward within an international city and the community has continued to thrive as an energetic and appealing place to live.

Official flower	Osaka Castle	Dotonbori