都島区由来記

Whispers of emperors and ancient shrines echo through Miyakojima-ku. This ward, one of Osaka’s 24, holds a secret history tied to Japan’s imperial past. Miyakojima-ku wasn’t always a bustling urban landscape. Imagine a serene expanse of reeds and sand dunes. The area near the present-day Miyakojima-ku was once known as “Miyakojima,” possibly named for its proximity to imperial palaces. The Emperor Nintoku’s Naniwa Nagara-Toyosaki Palace and the Emperor Seinei’s Kawachi Katsurano-miya Palace were thought to have been nearby. This association with royalty deeply influenced the area’s development. In the fifth century, Naniwa, which included parts of modern Osaka, flourished as a gateway for overseas trade. Emperor Yūryaku even built a palace in Naniwa, further solidifying the region’s importance. Later, Emperor Nintoku moved the capital to Naniwa and constructed yet another palace, the Naniwa Takatsu Palace, near the northern end of the Uemachi Plateau. For roughly 150 years, Naniwa served as Japan’s capital and a secondary capital, leaving a lasting mark on the history of Miyakojima-ku. Over time, the name “Miyakojima” evolved into the current Miyakojima-ku. This shift possibly occurred as the numerous islands in the area gradually connected, leading to the formation of villages. Even after these changes, the name “Miyakojima” persisted, a testament to its rich history. Today, Miyakojima-ku stands as a vibrant ward, a testament to its imperial past. It serves as a modern gateway to eastern Osaka, much like Naniwa was centuries ago.