Today, Osaka is a blend of old and new. Do you wish to experience this Japanese port city as it was in the past? The best places to visit are the Instagram-popular Osaka Castle, the iconic Sumiyoshi Taisha Shinto shrine, and the beautiful Hozen-ji Temple.
But, nowadays, Osaka has become ultra modernized to offer attractions for adventures you won’t even expect and imagine to encounter – from visiting Harry Potter’s world to seeing the city from the skies at Tsūtenkaku and Umeda Sky Building. Of course, Osaka is also hailed as Japan’s kitchen, so it’s a gastronomic treat here as well.
Meanwhile, for those who have vibrant souls and desire to see Osaka from a cheerful spirit’s perspective, you’ve got to know which festivals are a must-see in this destination. Here are our top picks!
1. Tenjin Matsuri
In Osaka, there are only three major festivals, and Tenjin Matsuri is one of them. Every July, the Funatogyo tradition is commemorated, wherein a boat procession takes place as a ritual to journey divine spirits on a boat across the Okawa River. This festival originated from a Shinto rite held at the Osaka Tenmangu Shrine from the day it was founded.
2. Aizen Festival
Celebrated yearly from the end of June to the first day of July, the Aizen Festival is all about fairs and processions that add color to the city’s summer celebrations. The site of this gathering was founded in the 500s by Prince Shotoku, a politician during the Asuka period. The highlight here is the appearance of jovial Aizen-musume girls wearing summer kimono riding in the palanquin, a large box that can carry a person.
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3. Naniwa Yodogawa Fireworks Festival
Who says that fireworks are only during New Year gatherings? Not quite, because in Osaka, there’s a fireworks festival happening every summer. It’s the Naniwa Yodogawa Fireworks Festival, the city’s biggest pyrotechnics show held along the mighty Yodogawa River, hence the name. It’s not just a fireworks show, but songs are also played in sync with the spectacle in the sky.
4. Hanami or Cherry Blossom Viewing
In Japan, several festivals are held in honor of the country's symbolic flower. Here in Osaka, festivals of this kind are known as Hanami or cherry blossom viewing. This event is more relaxed, so you won’t stand to wait for parading floats. You can lounge perhaps on your picnic mats while watching the cherry blossoms. Perfect for the whole family.
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5. Toka Ebisu
This is probably the very first Osaka festival after New Year’s Eve. The Japanese people pray to Ebisu, the god of good fortune and fishermen. Locals and tourists have devoted themselves to showing up for Toka Ebisu as they believe this will bring them good luck throughout the year. Attendees buy bamboo grasses and other lucky charms. Be sure not to miss the fish markets that sell lots of products on sale.
6. Sumiyoshi Festival
Several of the festivals in Japan are universal in the country. This means you’ll hear them celebrated in other locations, too, unlike in countries where festivals are native to the province or state. One example is the Sumiyoshi Festival. This summertime Shinto ritual is faithfully believed to purify the entire city of Osaka from sin. Aside from the parade, you’ll also get to see women wearing period costumes.
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7. Summer Sonic Festival
This is rather unique. It’s not a festival rooted in tradition and history but something created just recently. This is a rock music festival that connects the audience in person with the biggest and trendiest Japanese artists.
8. Kishiwada Danjiri Festival
Read in-flight magazines, and you’ll often see the Kishiwada Danjiri Festival featured. Touted as one of Japan’s most energetic festivals, this has been held since the Edo period and features parades of floats, dancing, and so much more.
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9. Midosuji Illumination
In winter and Christmas holidays, trees along Midosuji Avenue are lit up to produce a magical atmosphere. There is minimal movement here, there are no parades, and you can visit anytime within its running. You can take several beautiful snapshots of the illuminated trees for social media sharing.
Attending Japanese festivals is a way for you to see the country from a more unique perspective. However, make sure to prepare beforehand. Wear comfortable clothing if you’re watching a parade outdoors, and know ticket prices to events like the Summer Sonic Festival so you are not caught unaware. The festive spirit of Japan awaits every traveler.
Want to discover more of Osaka with a local? Join our Osaka Free Walking Tour and experience Osaka’s rich food, culture, and history.
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