Annual Festivals, Cultural Events, and Celebrations in Osaka

Tenjin Matsuri

A grand summer festival held on July 24th and 25th every year. Renowned as one of Japan's top three festivals, it features processions on both land and river.

Osaka Sumo Spring Basho

The Osaka Grand Sumo Tournament is held in March each year at Edion Arena Osaka. It is one of the six Grand Tournaments held annually in professional sumo.

Osaka Asian Film Festival

An annual event held in March for Asian cinema enthusiasts. The festival showcases a vast range of films from all over Asia.

Osaka Castle 3D Mapping Super Illumination

A winter event usually held December to late February. It uses high-tech 3D projection mapping technology to illuminate Osaka Castle.

Osaka Auto Messe

A custom car show held annually in February at Intex Osaka. It features tuned and dressed-up cars.

Nipponbashi Street Festa

Osaka’s biggest cosplay event held annually on one Sunday in late March. It attracts anime and manga enthusiasts who flock to the Nipponbashi district in elaborate costumes.

Shōgatsu (New Year)

Celebrated from January 1st to the 3rd, Shōgatsu is the traditional Japanese New Year. It is a season for festivals, food, visiting temples, and playing games. Major events are held at the city's temples, shrines, and shopping areas.

Hanami (Cherry Blossom Viewing)

Cherry blossom season typically falls in late March or early April. Celebrations are held in various parks throughout the city, including Osaka Castle Park.

Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri

A vibrant and exciting danjiri (float) festival held in mid-September. This authentic local event is filled with swift and energetic drumming and dance performances.

Tennōji Park Illuminage

A beautiful night illumination event held in Tennōji park from late October till early May. It offers breathtaking night views of the park drenched in colorful lights.

The Floating of the Lanterns

Celebrated on August 16th, ending the Bon Festival. Thousand of paper lanterns are set afloat in rivers all around the city to guide the spirits back to the other world.