The “Tenjin Festival(Matsuri),” known as one of Japan’s Three Great Festivals, is a traditional event in Osaka with over 1,000 years of history. Its grand finale, the “Tenjin Festival Fireworks,” brilliantly lights up the summer night sky and promises an unforgettable experience for many international travelers. In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide to the 2025 Tenjin Festival and its fireworks, including highlights, access information, and etiquette tips.
This is more than a sightseeing event—Tenjin Festival is deeply rooted in the faith, culture, and daily life of Osaka’s residents. For visitors from abroad, experiencing this festival offers a unique window into the Japanese way of life and values. Through this guide, we hope to convey the full charm and joy of the Tenjin Festival.
1. What Is the Tenjin Festival?
The Tenjin Festival is the annual festival of Osaka Tenmangu Shrine, held from late June through July 25 each year. It features a variety of events including religious rituals, parades, and the spectacular Funatogyo boat procession. On the main festival day, around 3,000 participants dressed in traditional costumes march through the city. Together with Kyoto’s Gion Festival and Tokyo’s Kanda Festival, it is recognized as one of Japan’s Three Great Festivals and attracts countless visitors from both within Japan and abroad.
※Osaka Tenmangu: A historic Shinto shrine located in Osaka’s Kita Ward, dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the god of learning. It serves as the central site of the Tenjin Festival and is deeply revered by locals.
※Funatogyo: A ritual in which a fleet of decorated boats, including a sacred vessel carrying the deity, parade down the river. This brilliant water procession is one of the festival’s biggest highlights.
One of the defining features of the Tenjin Festival is the wide participation of the local community, including residents, shopping districts, businesses, and cultural organizations. Whether as portable shrine bearers, food stall operators, or spectators, everyone plays a role in keeping this tradition alive.
2. What Is the Tenjin Festival Fireworks?
The Tenjin Festival concludes on the night of July 25 with a grand fireworks display along the Okawa River. Approximately 3,000 fireworks are launched in sync with the Funatogyo boats, offering a spiritual tribute to the gods. With reflections glimmering on the water and lantern-lit boats drifting by, the scene is often described as a “festival of fire and water” and captivates everyone who sees it.
The best views can be enjoyed from Sakuranomiya Park and Kema Sakuranomiya Park, popular spots for photographers and tourists. Some riverside hotels and restaurants even offer exclusive plans that combine gourmet dinners with fireworks viewing.
3. Basic Information: Tenjin Festival
- Event Period: Late June to Friday, July 25, 2025
- Location: Osaka Tenmangu and surrounding areas
Tenmangu Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ND6BG8hySQa4NYFS6 - Weather Policy: Held rain or shine; some events may be canceled in severe weather
- Official Website: https://osakatemmangu.or.jp/saijireki/tjm
During the festival period, many cultural events such as tea ceremonies, performances, and votive offerings take place. A longer stay will allow for a richer, more immersive experience.
4. Basic Information: Fireworks Event
- Date & Time: Friday, July 25, 2025, 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM
- Location: Okawa River (near Sakuranomiya Park and Kawasaki Park)
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/rxfTaCPh6sWks8Ft6 - Weather Policy: Held in light rain; canceled in case of storm
- Number of Fireworks: Approximately 3,000
- Annual Attendance: About 1.3 million total festival visitors; over 500,000 on fireworks day
One of the most remarkable features is the synchronization of fireworks with the boat procession. Accompanied by traditional court music and drums, the harmony of fire, water, and sound creates an unforgettable performance.
※Gagaku: Ancient Japanese court music performed during Shinto rituals and ceremonies, using traditional instruments like the sho, hichiriki, and ryuteki.
5. Highlights and Features of the Tenjin Festival & Fireworks
The stunning pairing of nearly 100 boats on the river with fireworks lighting up the sky above
- Unique fireworks inspired by the plum blossom crest of Sugawara no Michizane, such as the “Kobai (Red Plum)”
- The city is bathed in the warm glow of lanterns and toro, creating a magical nightscape
※Sugawara no Michizane: A scholar and politician of the Heian period, later deified as the “Tenjin” god of learning, and widely venerated across Japan. Known for his tragic exile to Dazaifu.
※Umebachi-mon: A crest symbolizing plum blossoms associated with Sugawara no Michizane. Frequently seen in Tenmangu shrines and the Tenjin Festival.
※Toro: Traditional Japanese lanterns made of stone, metal, or paper. Used to create a sacred and ethereal atmosphere at festivals.
6. History and Origins
The Tenjin Festival traces its roots back to 951 AD, beginning with the “Hokonagashi” ceremony at Osaka Tenmangu. In this ritual, a sacred spear (hoko) was floated down the river to determine the deity’s will and the festival’s sacred location.
Over time, the festival evolved into a major event praying for local prosperity, protection from epidemics, and safe voyages. From the Kamakura period onward, townspeople began to actively participate, adding grand land and water parades.
The fireworks were introduced during the Edo period, originally intended to ward off evil spirits and pray for bountiful harvests. They later became a symbolic gesture of gratitude to the gods and a grand finale to the festivities.
Today, the Tenjin Festival is Osaka’s largest traditional event and continues to draw global attention, blending sacred rites with local culture.
7. Access Information
Nearest Stations & How to Get There:
- JR Osaka Loop Line “Sakuranomiya Station”: ~2-minute walk
- Osaka Metro Tanimachi Line “Temmabashi Station”: ~5-minute walk
- Keihan Main Line “Temmabashi Station”: ~5-minute walk
Traffic Restrictions & Crowds:
- Major traffic control around the fireworks site; driving is not recommended.
- Extremely crowded 1–2 hours before and after the fireworks; allow extra time.
Post-Event Tips:
- To avoid congestion, consider walking to a more distant station (e.g., Minami-Morimachi or Kyobashi) before boarding a train.
8. How to Enjoy the Festival & Fireworks
Recommended Events & Schedule:
July 24 (Thu) – Eve of the Festival (Yoimiya)
- Hokonagashi Ritual: A solemn ritual to float a sacred spear down the Okawa River and divine the deity’s will
- Shishimai Parade: Traditional lion dance procession for community blessings and protection
- Taiko Drum Parade: A dynamic parade marked by rhythmic drumming, signifying the start of the festivities
July 25 (Fri) – Main Festival Day (Honmiya)
- Land Procession (Rikutogyo): A grand parade of thousands in Heian-style costumes, recreating scenes from classical picture scrolls
- Funatogyo: About 100 boats, including the mikoshi-bearing sacred vessel, parade along the river to offer prayers
- Fireworks Display: Launched in sync with the Funatogyo. Highlights include the “Kobai” (plum crest) and star mines
※Heian Emaki: Illustrated scrolls depicting court life and traditions of the Heian period. The parade mimics these elegant scenes.
Dress Code:
Yukata (summer kimono) is a popular choice for its aesthetic and cultural charm
Items to Bring:
- Stay cool with drinks, hand fans, hats, and mini fans
- Picnic sheets and insect repellent are also useful
Festival Food Stalls:
Enjoy Osaka favorites like takoyaki, ikayaki (grilled squid), kakigori (shaved ice), and classic festival games
9. Etiquette & Precautions
Etiquette:
- Dispose of trash properly or take it with you
- Don’t block other spectators’ spaces
Crowded Areas & Timing:
- Especially crowded after 6 PM near Sakuranomiya and Kawasaki Parks
Safety Tips:
- Plan escape routes if attending with small children or elderly companions
Other Notes:
- Mobile signals may be weak near the venue; pre-arranged meeting times and spots are recommended
10. Nearby Attractions
Osaka Tenmangu: Historic shrine dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, with many cultural treasures
Nakanoshima Park: A riverside oasis perfect for strolls
Tenma Tenjin Hanjotei Theater: Enjoy traditional Japanese comedy (rakugo)
Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street: Japan’s longest shopping arcade—perfect for souvenirs and street food
In Conclusion
The Tenjin Festival and its accompanying fireworks display are defining events of the Japanese summer. In 2025, the excitement will peak on July 24 and 25, offering a stunning fusion of tradition, spectacle, and culture. For international visitors, it’s sure to be a memorable highlight. Be sure to plan early and prepare for a smooth and enjoyable festival experience!
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