In the ancient Jomon and Yayoi eras, this area was called Naniwa Yasoshima, a name that signified the large number of shallow streams and small islands covered by reeds in this area. The current terrain of Higashiyodogawa-ku is a consequence of frequent flooding on these islands, and the accumulation of sand and soil carried by the streams over many years.

Higashiyodogawa-ku was originally formed during the second expansion of the Osaka City area in April 1925. It was reorganized in April 1943, followed by the separation of its western part to form Yodogawa-ku in the reorganization into 26-ku system in July 1974, resulting in the current Higashiyodogawa-ku. The district now has the second largest citizen population and the most households in all of Osaka City, with the abundant water resources of the Yodogawa, Kanzakigawa and Aigawa rivers, as well as green rural landscapes.

This district also has a remarkable history of culture and tradition, demonstrated by the numerous shrines, temples and historical sites. In 1914, a waterworks plant was built in Kunijima, to supply water to Osaka citizens. The original pump plant has been converted into a memorial museum, and displays the history of waterworks in the midst of natural environment of the Yodogawa river. The cherry avenue in the Kunijima waterworks plant is a popular blossom-viewing site in spring, opened to and crowded by people enjoying the beauty of cherry blossoms every year.

As Higashiyodogawa-ku is surrounded by many rivers; it has a number of great bridges, including Toyosato Ohashi, Nagara-bashi, Eguchi-bashi, Sugahara Shirokita Ohashi, etc. The Yodogawa and Kanzakigawa riversides feature citizens' parks and a cycling course called the Naniwa Cycling Road.

Diverse events and festivals of local communities are also held in the district. Higashiyodogawa-ku Citizens' Festival is one of the largest among them. It is held in the neighborhood of the Ward Office in September every year and is very exciting, attracting numerous visitors and participants.