Hirakata City, Osaka Prefecture, is located in the northeastern part of the prefecture and is a merger of many towns and villages. It's convenient for shopping, with numerous department stores and shopping malls. It also has six universities, including a strong rugby team, and is a city that places great emphasis on education and sports. The area has a long history of the Tanabata legend, and its mascots, Orihime-chan and Hikoboshi-kun, are named after the princesses Orihime and Hikoboshi. The Hirakata Eight Views, established to commemorate the city's 35th anniversary, include the four seasons of the Yodo River, the view from Mt. Kunimi, and the pine winds at the ruins of Baekje Temple. Hirakata City has many famous cherry blossom viewing spots, and in spring, you can enjoy beautiful views from the Citizen's Forest and the Funabashi River embankment.