The Osaka Tenjin Matsuri 2024, with its rich history and vibrant celebrations, is a must-see event that showcases the heart and spirit of Osaka.
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About Osaka Tenjin Matsuri
The Osaka Tenjin Festival, one of Japan's three major festivals, has a history of over 1,000 years. It takes place annually from late June to July 25th, with the main events occurring on July 24th and 25th.
On the 25th, a large procession of approximately 3,000 people marches from Osaka Tenmangu Shrine to the boarding point at Tenjinbashi Bridge. In the evening, over 100 boats carrying mikoshi (portable shrines) cross the river, accompanied by a fireworks display.
This festival is also known as 'the Festival of Fire and Water' because of the beautiful lights from the lanterns and fireworks reflected on the river.
Japan's three major festivals are the Kanda Festival in Tokyo, the Gion Festival in Kyoto, and the Tenjin Festival in Osaka.
Highlights of the Festival
Dondokofune Miyairi
Dondokofune is a rowing boat that moves freely up and down the river, enlivening the Tenjin Festival with drums, bells and yells. Due to its unique rowing style and its distinction as the only traditional hand-rowing boat event in Osaka Prefecture, it has been designated an intangible folk cultural property by the prefecture. On the 24th, you can see this Dondokofune enter Osaka Tenmangu Shrine.
Miyairi: Festival rituals being brought into the precincts of a shrine
Fireworks on 25th
Fireworks start at 7:30 pm on the 25th, the last day of the Tenjin Festival. Every year, between 3,000 and 5,000 fireworks are set off. You can enjoy the combination of boats floating on the river and the fireworks display.
Best Spots to View Fireworks on July 25th
There are paid fireworks viewing seats and tours where you can watch the fireworks from a boat. Check here for more details. However, you can also enjoy the fireworks from the places listed below.
Gempachi Bridge
This place is one of the most popular spots to watch the fireworks of the Tenjin Festival. It's relatively close to the launch venue, allowing you to enjoy the impressive display. Additionally, there are festival stalls nearby, so you can fully experience the atmosphere of a Japanese festival.
Address: Miyakojima Ward, Osaka, 534-0027, Japan
Miyakojima Bridge
Although this location is a bit far from the fireworks launch site, you can enjoy the combination of the Tenjin Festival fireworks and the illuminated Osaka Castle. Additionally, it is relatively less crowded compared to Gempachi Bridge.
Address: 1-chōme−1, Kita Ward, Kokubunji, Osaka, 531-0064, Japan :
Getting there from Tokyo
From Tokyo, you can easily reach Osaka Prefecture, the site of the Osaka Tenjin Matsuri 2024 by Shinkansen or Plane.
Shinkansen
Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen
- Tokyo Station -> Shin-Osaka Station
- Travel time: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes
Subway
- Shin-Osaka Station -> Osaka Tenmangu Shrine
- Travel time: Approximately 20 minutes
Plane
- Haneda Airport -> Kansai International Airport
- Travel time: Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes
Airport Shuttle Bus
- Kansai International Airport -> Shin Hankyu Hotel
- Travel time: Approximately 1 hour
Subway
- Osaka Station -> Osaka Tenmangu Shrine
- Travel time: Approximately 12 minutes
Osaka Tenjin Matsuri 2024 Event Schedule
Dates: 2024 July 24th (Wed) and 25th (Thu)
Time:
- July 24th: 4:00 ~ (Dondokofune Miyairi starts at 16:15)
- July 25th: 13:30 ~ (The fireworks display starts at 19:30)
Venue: Around Osaka Tenmangu Shrine
Entry: Free
Official Website: Tenjin Matsuri (Japanese)