- Speaking of Osaka festivals… Tenjin Festival! Fireworks will be set off today!!
- What is Tenjin Festival? – Osaka’s pride that has continued for over 1,000 years
- Highlight 1: The spectacular “Funatogyo”
- Highlight 2: Approximately 3,000 fireworks lighting up the night sky
- What is the Osaka tradition “Osaka-jime (Osaka sanbon-jime)”?
- Access from Minami area (Namba/Shinsaibashi)
- Summary: Experience the heat of Osaka’s summer firsthand!
Speaking of Osaka festivals… Tenjin Festival! Fireworks will be set off today!!
Tenjin Festival, known as one of the three major festivals in Japan, will be held in Osaka again this year with a bang. The year 2025 will be the same as the Osaka-Kansai Expo, making it a particularly special festival that will attract attention from all over the world. In this article, we will introduce the highlights of Tenjin Festival and how to get there from the perspective of a tourist guide, in an easy-to-understand way for foreign tourists!
What is Tenjin Festival? – Osaka’s pride that has continued for over 1,000 years
Tenjin Festival is a two-day festival held every year on July 24th and 25th, centered around Osaka Tenmangu Shrine, and is a festival to worship Sugawara no Michizane, the god of learning. Its origins date back to 951 during the Heian period. Boasting a history of over 1,000 years, it is one of the most venerable summer festivals in Japan.
The main event, called “Honmiya,” takes place on the 25th, when a boat carrying a portable shrine goes around the river in a “boat parade,” and spectacular fireworks light up the night sky. For these two days, the city of Osaka is filled with excitement and joy.
Highlight 1: The spectacular “Funatogyo”
The highlight of the Tenjin Festival is the Funatogyo. This ceremony begins in the evening, and about 100 decorated boats slowly move back and forth on the Okawa River, with the Gozabune boat carrying the Mikoshi (portable shrine) at the center.
Many people gather on the riverbank, and in the fantastic atmosphere of lit lanterns, people in traditional costumes liven up the festival with the sounds of drums and flutes. We recommend reserving seats to enjoy the festival up close, but you can also get a full, immersive experience just by walking along the river.
Highlight 2: Approximately 3,000 fireworks lighting up the night sky
Following the Funatogyo is the “Dedication Fireworks.” Starting at around 7:30pm, about 3,000 fireworks are set off along the Okawa River. The sight of the fireworks, the lights of the boats, and the night view of Osaka city all blending together is truly spectacular!
Recommended viewing spots are around Kawasaki Bridge and Sakuranomiya Park. For those who want to avoid the crowds, a viewing spot a little further away from Temmabashi Station is also a hidden gem.
What is the Osaka tradition “Osaka-jime (Osaka sanbon-jime)”?
The climax and closing scene of the Tenjin Festival is marked by the “Osaka-jime,” a rhythmic hand-clapping unique to Osaka that celebrates the success of a festival or gathering.
“Let’s hit it! (clap, clap) One more! (clap, clap) Let’s celebrate a third time! (clap, clap, clap)”
By clapping your hands together along with these chants, the atmosphere becomes one and the festival ends in a fitting atmosphere. If you see it, be sure to join in!
Access from Minami area (Namba/Shinsaibashi)
The Tenjin Festival isOsaka Tenmangu Shrine and its surrounding area, and the Okawa (formerly Yodogawa) areaIt will be held at.
It is very easy to get by train from the Minami area to the main venues of the Tenjin Festival, Osaka Tenmangu Shrine and along the Okawa River.
▶ How to get to Osaka Tenmangu Shrine
- Approximately 8 minutes from Nihonbashi Station on the Sakaisuji Subway Line to Minamimorimachi Station (no transfers)
- Osaka Tenmangu Shrine is a 5-minute walk from Minamimorimachi Station!
▶ How to get to the Funatogyo and fireworks viewing spots (Sakuranomiya and Tenmabashi)
- Subway Midosuji Line “Namba Station” → “Yodoyabashi Station” (about 5 minutes)
- Keihan Main Line “Yodoyabashi Station” → “Tenmabashi Station” or “Kyobashi Station” (about 5 minutes)
Festival days are bound to be very crowded! If you are going in a group, make sure to check contact details so you don’t get separated!
It is expected that the Tenjin Festival will be extremely crowded, so it is important to plan your trip with plenty of time . There will also be traffic restrictions in place from the evening onwards, so we recommend using public transport.
Summary: Experience the heat of Osaka’s summer firsthand!
Tenjin Festival is not just a festival. It is a major event that breathes the traditions and spirit of Osaka . The beautiful Funatogyo and fireworks, the Osakajime that lets you feel the spirit of Osaka people, and the lively atmosphere of the city…
Once you visit, you’ll be captivated by the energy and warmth. If you’re staying in the Minami area of Osaka, be sure to try out this rare summer experience!
Bonus: Useful tips for foreign tourists
- Casual attire is OK . As this is an outdoor event, we recommend cool clothing and comfortable walking shoes.
- Please bring drinks with you . Don’t forget to stay hydrated to avoid heatstroke.
- Please take your trash home with you. Let’s keep Osaka clean!
