Osaka Events in January 2027: Festivals, USJ Fireworks & Traditional Ceremonies Not to Miss
One of the must-see attractions in Osaka during New Year's is the fireworks show at Universal Studios Japan (USJ). I once celebrated New Year's Eve there myself, and the spectacular display was absolutely breathtaking.
However, USJ park tickets for December 31st are extremely competitive and often sell out as soon as they go on sale. As a result, many international visitors miss out on the chance to enjoy the New Year's fireworks at USJ.
But January offers much more than just fireworks - there are many events where you can experience Japanese traditions and Osaka's culture, including hatsumode (first shrine visit of the year) at Sumiyoshi Taisha and Osaka Tenmangu shrines, as well as nationally famous unusual festivals. In this article, I've carefully selected my favorite events to share with you.
Also, I think "it would be a shame to visit Osaka without fully experiencing the local food culture!!," so this article introduces not just events but also Magical Trip tours. Our popular "Osaka Bar Hopping Night Tour in Namba" and "Kuromon Market Walking Street Food Tour in Osaka" are outstanding tours that popular same as "Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku," which was ranked #1 among all tours on TripAdvisor in 2024.
Introduction
]Osaka, Japan's second-largest metropolitan area after Tokyo, is a popular tourist destination known for its unique culture, including its cuisine and entertainment. While Osaka is generally known for its relatively mild climate and low rainfall throughout the year, January marks the peak of winter with colder temperatures. Snowfall is possible, so tourists should be prepared with warm clothing such as coats, scarves, and boots.
January, the beginning of the year, is filled with various events celebrating the New Year and aiming to make the coming year a better one. There are many events that can only be experienced during this time, including traditional Japanese celebrations and unique Osaka festivals.
In this article, we'll introduce you to the highlights, schedules, and access information for these events to help you plan your trip to Osaka in January 2026!
2026 Year-round Event calendar in Osaka↓
・Osaka: List of Events & Festivals for 2026
sena kanda
Table of Contents
1. Traditional Events in Osaka in January 2026
2. Special January-only Experiences in Osaka
If You're Spending New Year's Eve in Osaka, Join the "USJ Countdown Moment"!
Source:Official website
If you're looking to ring in the New Year in grand style at an Osaka event, joining the USJ Countdown Moment held at USJ on New Year's Eve is highly recommended. This is one of the most exciting Osaka events in January 2027 you won't want to miss.
Here, we'll take a closer look at what the USJ Countdown Moment is all about. If you're planning to enjoy the New Year's holiday season in Osaka, be sure to use this as your reference.
What Is the USJ Countdown Moment?
Source:Official website
The USJ Countdown Moment is a countdown event held every year at USJ during the New Year's holiday season. At the stroke of midnight, approximately 4,000 fireworks are launched in sync with music to celebrate the arrival of the New Year in spectacular fashion.
In addition, the New Year Greeting — a parade featuring USJ's popular characters dressed in traditional Japanese attire — takes place throughout the park, along with stage events that get the crowd fired up.
The "Special Stage" Where You Can Experience All the Best Entertainment at Once
Source:Official website
Before the New Year fireworks are launched, a Special Stage packed with USJ's most beloved entertainment is held. This stage features performances by the characters who made USJ shine throughout the year, captivating the audience with their outstanding quality.
Other highlights include the debut of original songs created through collaborations between Japanese and Korean artists and USJ's popular characters, along with a variety of other shows. Fan-favorite characters such as Sesame Street, Hello Kitty, and Minions will also gather on stage to amp up the excitement.
Unlimited Rides for Up to 26 Hours — December 31 to January 1 Only!
Source:Official website
On the day of the USJ Countdown Moment, the park operates through the night from 7:00 PM on December 31 to 9:00 PM on January 1. With your ticket in hand, you'll have unlimited access to all the rides at USJ for up to 26 hours. Since all the popular attractions are available, this is the ultimate event for getting the most out of everything USJ has to offer.
Your ticket not only gets you up close to the fireworks, but also lets you watch the First Sunrise from inside the park. If you want to experience these special moments at USJ, make sure to secure your tickets early.
Tickets Sell Out Every Year — Tips for Getting Yours
Source:Official website
The USJ Countdown Moment is extremely popular and is known for being difficult to get tickets for. Tickets are distributed via lottery, so be sure to get information about ticket sales early and apply as soon as possible.
There are two chances to purchase tickets — advance sales and general sales — but tickets typically sell out during the advance sales period, making it very difficult to purchase during general sales. Advance sales begin in early October, so check the official website early.
The official website is available in English, so guests from overseas can also purchase tickets. By switching to English, all ticket purchase details will be displayed in English. Once early October arrives and advance sales begin, access the official website promptly and submit your application.
No Ticket? No Problem! Here's Where to Enjoy the Fireworks Without One
The USJ Countdown Moment is a highly popular Osaka event in January 2027, which makes obtaining entry tickets quite challenging. However, if you head to the spots introduced here, you can still enjoy the New Year fireworks without a ticket.
If you weren't able to get a ticket, visit the places below and enjoy the fireworks show.
Mt. Tempo
Mt. Tempo is a mountain once known as the lowest mountain in Japan. It's located near Kaiyukan, one of Osaka's most famous aquariums, and sits just 400 meters from USJ across the water.
On the day of the USJ Countdown Moment, the fireworks can be viewed for free, which draws large crowds. Since USJ is clearly visible from the waterfront, this spot is recommended for those who want to enjoy the fireworks as close to USJ as possible with a real sense of scale.
Please note the following when visiting Mt. Tempo:
- The only access to Mt. Tempo is via the Osaka Metro Chuo Line
- On the day of the USJ Countdown Moment, Osaka Metro does not operate additional late-night trains after the last departure
- All trains stop running at midnight, so make sure to arrange your return transportation in advance
Sakurajima Station
Sakurajima Station is the terminal station of the JR Yumesaki Line, which provides access to USJ. Since the station is located directly behind USJ, you can enjoy the fireworks up close even without entering the venue.
Being so close to the venue, you'll feel the sound of the fireworks reverberating through your body. There is a park in front of the station, and since there are no entry restrictions, it's a great spot for those who want to watch the fireworks at a relaxed pace.
Key points to know about Sakurajima Station:
- The Yumesaki Line operates extended service until 3:00 AM on New Year's Eve, allowing you to take the train back to the city center right after the fireworks end
- Transportation access is excellent
- The area is exposed to strong sea winds and can get very cold, so don't forget to bring warm clothing
Maishima Sports Island
Maishima Sports Island is an artificial island located to the west of USJ. Although it's a bit further away from USJ, people gather here every New Year's Eve to enjoy the free fireworks display.
Since it's further from USJ, the fireworks will appear smaller, but compared to the areas around Mt. Tempo and Sakurajima Station, the crowds are thinner, making it a recommended spot for those who want to avoid large crowds.
Keep these points in mind before visiting Maishima Sports Island:
- Access is poor — the location can only be reached by car, so securing a rental car is necessary
- There are very few shops in the area, so be sure to prepare food, drinks, and warm clothing in advance
Let's Include a Tour of Osaka's Cultural Spots and Hidden Local Restaurants in Your Itinerary!
If you enjoy alcoholic beverages, why not participate in the "Osaka Bar Hopping Night Tour in Namba" during your evening in Osaka?
The Bar Hopping Tour is an guided experience where you'll visit several Japanese-style bars in Namba that serve Japanese cuisine and drinks with an expert guide. The tour includes visits to three bars, followed by commemorative photos at the popular tourist destination, Dotonbori.
What makes the Bar Hopping Tour particularly attractive is that it focuses on visiting local bars unknown to tourists, allowing you to enjoy authentic local cuisine. It's highly recommended for those who want to visit locally beloved bars with a knowledgeable guide who's well-versed in Japanese alcohol and cuisine.
The guides are happy to answer participants' questions and help create a lively atmosphere, ensuring an enjoyable time for everyone.
Click here for more details(https://www.magical-trip.com/product/a9a2ebd9-ced6-4793-a0cf-14488d92b03a)
Meeting point: Subway Namba Station Exit 15-B
Tour area: Hozenji, Namba, and Dotonbori
Start times: 18:00, 19:00
Traditional Japanese Events to Enjoy in Osaka in January — Osaka Event January 2027
Hatsumode (First Shrine Visit of the Year)
Hatsumode is a traditional Japanese custom of visiting a shrine or temple for the first time in the New Year to express gratitude and pray for peace in the coming year. It's also sometimes called "Hatsu mairi." While you can visit any shrine or temple, many people choose to visit the one closest to their home, praying for good health throughout the year.
Visiting shrines with family and friends, receiving amulets, and drawing "omikuji" (fortune slips) to predict one's luck for the year are typical scenes during the Japanese New Year. It's a good idea to set your New Year's resolutions during your visit to start the year with a focused mindset.
Most people visit during the first three days of January, known as "sanganichi," but it's common to go sometime within January. People may want to greet the gods as early as possible in the new year.
Popular Hatsumode spots in Osaka:
- Sumiyoshi Taisha
Access: 3-minute walk east from Sumiyoshi-taisha Station on the Nankai Main Line / 5-minute walk west from Sumiyoshi-higashi Station on the Nankai Koya Line
Official website: https://www.sumiyoshitaisha.net/en/
- Osaka Tenmangu
Access: 5-minute walk from Exit 4 of Minami-mori-machi Station on the Osaka Metro Tanimachi Line or Sakaisuji Line / 5-minute walk from Exit 7 of Osaka-tenmangu Station on the JR Tozai Line
Official website: https://osakatemmangu.or.jp
- Shitennoji
Access: 5-minute walk south from Shitennojimae-yuhigaoka Station on the Osaka Metro Tanimachi Line
Official website: https://www.shitennoji.or.jp
Sumiyoshi Taisha
Sumiyoshi Taisha is the head shrine of the Sumiyoshi Shrine network, which has 2,300 shrines across the country. It is one of Japan's oldest shrines with a history of approximately 1,800 years, and is well known for enshrining the gods of the sea who protect the safety of maritime voyages.
Within the shrine grounds stands the Taiko Bridge, famous for its steep incline of about 48 degrees — crossing it is said to ward off evil and bring good fortune.
In January, a variety of religious ceremonies are held beyond the traditional New Year's visit, and many worshippers flock to Sumiyoshi Taisha seeking divine blessings.
Osaka Tenmangu
Source: Official website
Osaka Tenmangu is a shrine dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, revered as the god of learning and academics. It is famous as a power spot where all kinds of wishes — from academic success to finding love — are said to be granted, and it welcomes many visitors throughout the year.
It is also known as one of Osaka's most popular destinations for the first shrine visit of the New Year, and as the year begins, the grounds overflow with worshippers.
Every year from January 9 to 11, the Ebisu Festival is held to pray for prosperity in business, drawing large crowds of visitors eager to receive its divine blessings.
Magical Trip offers a wide variety of tours, and one of the most popular is a bicycle tour that takes you to Osaka Tenmangu and other sightseeing destinations. On the tour, guided by a knowledgeable guide, you'll cycle through the streets of Osaka and visit popular attractions at a refreshing pace.
At lunchtime, enjoy some of Osaka's most iconic foods such as Takoyaki and Okonomiyaki. You can also visit museums and Osaka Castle to take a deeper look at how Osaka has developed over the centuries.
- Meeting Point: In front of the FamilyMart at Tenmabashi Station
- Tour Area: Around Osaka Castle
- Start Time: 10:00
Shitennoji Temple
Shitennoji Temple is one of Japan's oldest temples, built approximately 1,400 years ago. It was founded by Shotoku Taishi, whose portrait was once featured on Japan's 10,000-yen bill, and at the center of the grounds stands a majestic Five-Storied Pagoda.
The temple grounds are free to enter, though the Five-Storied Pagoda, the garden, and the Treasure House require an admission fee.
The view of Osaka from the top of the Five-Storied Pagoda is renowned for its beauty, so be sure to stop by when you visit.
Toka Ebisu Festival
Source: Official website
The "Toka Ebisu" festival is held to worship Ebisu, the god of commerce and fishing, and to pray for prosperity in business, good catches, and bountiful harvests. The main day of the festival, known as "Hon Ebisu," is on January 10th, which is believed to be the day Ebisu goes out to work. The day before, January 9th, is called "Yoi Ebisu," and January 11th is "Nokori Ebisu."
During the festival, "Fukusasa" (lucky bamboo branches) and other lucky charms like rake-shaped ornaments are distributed. People take these home and display them as good luck charms for business prosperity. Bamboo is considered auspicious due to its resilience to cold and strong vitality.
The "Toka Ebisu" festival is held at various shrines throughout the Kansai region, but the Imamiya Ebisu Shrine in Osaka is one of the "Three Great Toka Ebisu Shrines" along with Nishinomiya Shrine in Hyogo and Kyoto Ebisu Shrine in Kyoto.
Other famous venues include Sumiyoshi Taisha, which has the longest history of "Toka Ebisu" in Osaka, and Sakai Ebisu Shrine, known for its large scale and many visitors.
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- Imamiya Ebisu Shrine
Dates: January 9-12, 2026 ⁑
Access: Directly accessible from Imamiya Ebisu Station on the Nankai Koya Line / 5-minute walk from Exit 3 of Daikokucho Station on the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.imamiya-ebisu.jp/english
- Sumiyoshi Taisha
Dates: January 9-10, 2026 ⁑
Access: 3-minute walk east from Sumiyoshi-taisha Station on the Nankai Main Line / 5-minute walk west from Sumiyoshi-higashi Station on the Nankai Koya Line
Admission: Free
Official website: https://www.sumiyoshitaisha.net/en/
- Sakai Ebisu Shrine (within Sugawara Shrine grounds)
Dates: January 9-11, 2026
Access: About 3-minute walk from Ohsho-ji Station on the Hankai Tramway Hankai Line
Admission: Free
Official website: https://www.sakaitenjin.or.jp/ebisu
A Spot-by-Spot Guide to Traditional and Cultural Events in Osaka in January
Sumiyoshi Taisha
Toka Shinji at Sumiyoshi Taisha
Source: Osaka Jinjacho Official website
Toka Shinji is a traditional Japanese event held to celebrate the New Year and pray for a good harvest. The purpose of this event, held at the beginning of spring, is to stamp on the ground to calm the spirits believed to dwell in the land and nature.
Toka Shinji has been performed since the imperial court era when emperors and nobles were at the center of society. Currently, this precious festival is only preserved at Sumiyoshi Taisha in Osaka and Atsuta Jingu in Aichi Prefecture.
During the event, two staff members dressed in imperial court-era costumes offer bags of mochi (rice cakes) to the gods with a ceremonial call. Afterwards, traditional dances called "Shirabyoshi mai" and "Kumano mai" are performed.
The main event is the "mochi-maki" (rice cake throwing) held at the end. Small bags of "fuku no mochi" (lucky rice cakes), believed to bring happiness, are thrown to the visitors. Try to catch one and grab happiness in your hands!
<Information>
Location: Sumiyoshi Taisha
Date: January 4, 2026 ⁑
Access: 3-minute walk from Sumiyoshi-taisha Station on the Nankai Main Line / 5-minute walk from Sumiyoshi-higashi Station on the Nankai Koya Line
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.sumiyoshitaisha.net/en/
Aouma Shinji at Sumiyoshi Taisha
Source: Official website
The "Aouma Shinji" held at Sumiyoshi Taisha is a festival conducted with the wish "to stay healthy and not fall ill." It is said that seeing a white horse at the beginning of the year wards off bad luck. Every year, many people visit to participate in this event.
The horse ridden by the gods is called "shinme," and Sumiyoshi Taisha has a divine horse named "Shirayuki." Shirayuki is characterized by its beautiful pure white coat and clear blue eyes. It is said that your wishes will come true if you pray while looking into the blue eyes of the divine horse.
During the event, you can see the divine horse slowly paying homage to the four main shrines and then galloping through the same route at high speed. The sight of a white horse galloping through the atmospheric shrine is majestic and one of the highlights of this event.
You can also receive special amulets only available on this day, so don't miss this opportunity to participate!
<Information>
Location: Sumiyoshi Taisha
Date: January 7, 2026
Access: 3-minute walk from Sumiyoshi-taisha Station on the Nankai Main Line / 5-minute walk from Sumiyoshi-higashi Station on the Nankai Koya Line
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.sumiyoshitaisha.net/en/
Kosatsu Shonoshiki (Old Talisman Burning Ceremony)
Source:Official website
Kosatsu Shonoshiki is held on January 15th. This ceremony involves placing into a sacred fire — with heartfelt gratitude — the old talismans, amulets, and New Year's decorations such as shimenawa that had been displayed at the entrances of homes throughout the previous year.
The day this ceremony is held is known as Small New Year, and it marks the end of the New Year's holiday season. It is also known as a ceremony to pray for the good health of all worshippers, and it is said that bathing in the smoke from the burning talismans and amulets will bring good health and household safety.
If you wish to spend the coming year in good health, be sure to take part in this ceremony.
<Information>
- Location: Sumiyoshi Taisha
- Date: January 15, 2027
- Access: 3-minute walk from Nankai Main Line "Sumiyoshi Taisha Station" / 5-minute walk from Nankai Koya Line "Sumiyoshi Higashi Station"
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://www.sumiyoshitaisha.net/events/annualevents/01.html
Osaka Tenmangu
At Osaka Tenmangu, located in the heart of Osaka, a variety of events take place in January as the new year begins. In particular, the Ebisu Festival held from January 9 to 11, and the Baika Festival and Usokae Shinji held on January 25, are annual events that draw large crowds every year.
Here is a detailed look at the festivals held at Osaka Tenmangu in January.
Uso Kae Shinji: Turning Lies into Truth
Source: Official website
Uso Kae Shinji is a unique festival held at Osaka Tenmangu Shrine, where participants exchange omamori (protective charms) to replace lies told the previous year with truth. This festival honors Sugawara Michizane, the deity of learning and honesty enshrined at Osaka Tenmangu Shrine, and aims to atone for past deceptions by aligning with his honest spirit.
During the festival, participants receive an omamori charm featuring the "uso-dori" (a bird beloved by Michizane). Once the event begins, participants rapidly exchange these charms with one another. The sight of around 1,000 people exchanging charms across the shrine grounds is one of the festival's main attractions.
Participants are encouraged to recite "Uso Wo Makoto ni Kaemashou" (Let's turn lies into truth) as they exchange charms, adding to the festive atmosphere.
<Information>
Location: Osaka Tenmangu Shrine
Date: January 25, 2026
Access: Approximately 6 minutes on foot from Minami-Morimachi Station, Osaka Metro Tanimachi Line and Sakaisuji Line, Exit 4
Admission: Free (Initial fee for uso-dori charm required)
Website:https://osakatemmangu.or.jp/saijireki
Tenma Tenjin Ebisu Festival
Source:Umeda Keizai Shimbun
From January 9 to 11, the Ebisu Festival is held at Osaka Tenmangu. This festival, celebrated as a prayer for prosperity in business, attracts many visitors who come to pray for happiness and good fortune throughout the year.
One of the distinctive features of the Ebisu Festival is that its name changes across each of the three days — the 9th is called Evening Ebisu, the 10th is Toka Ebisu, and the 11th is Remaining Fortune. Women known as Fuku Musume (Lucky Girls) welcome worshippers throughout the grounds, filling the atmosphere with a joyful and festive air.
I visit every year during this season to pray for a fortunate year ahead at Osaka Tenmangu.
<Information>
- Location: Osaka Tenmangu
- Date: January 9–11, 2027
- Access: Approximately 6-minute walk from Exit 4 of "Minami-Morimachi Station" on the Osaka Metro Tanimachi Line and Sakaisuji Line
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://osakatemmangu.or.jp/saijireki/ebisu
Hatsutenjin Baikasai (First Tenjin Plum Blossom Festival)
Source:Facebook
Hatsutenjin Baikasai is a festival held in remembrance of Sugawara no Michizane, enshrined at Osaka Tenmangu. Sugawara no Michizane is revered as the god of learning and academics, and the shrine is well known as a place where students preparing for exams come to pray for success.
During this festival, a small branch of plum — a flower that Sugawara no Michizane is said to have deeply loved during his lifetime — is offered at the main hall. The Usokae Shinji mentioned earlier is also held concurrently, and Osaka Tenmangu and the surrounding shopping streets come alive with festive crowds.
If you're hoping to receive a little extra happiness in your life, why not come and pay a visit?
<Information>
- Location: Osaka Tenmangu
- Date: January 25, 2027
- Access: Approximately 6-minute walk from Exit 4 of "Minami-Morimachi Station" on the Osaka Metro Tanimachi Line and Sakaisuji Line
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://osakatemmangu.or.jp/
Shitennoji Temple
At Shitennoji Temple, numerous festivals are held in January to mark the very start of the year. Events include a festival celebrating the birth of the temple's founder Shotoku Taishi, as well as the Daishikai ceremony held on the 21st of every month — meaning festivities take place almost every week.
Here is an overview of the captivating festivals held at Shitennoji Temple in January.
Doya Doya: One of Japan's Three Strangest Festivals
Source: Abeno Keizai
"Doya Doya," one of Japan's three strangest festivals, is a unique event where people wearing red and white loincloths fight over talismans that are believed to ward off evil. In the past, it was said that if these talismans were placed in rice fields and farms, they would keep pests away. The festival originated from farmers competing for these talismans.
The name "Doya Doya" is said to come from the Kansai dialect phrase "Douya, Douya," which means "How are you doing?"
In the past, the competition for talismans sometimes led to real fights, but nowadays, it's safely conducted as a traditional event where hundreds of local junior high and high school students participate to pray for a good harvest.
The sight of people in loincloths fighting for talismans under the cold winter sky is a unique spectacle that can only be seen at this festival. It's one of my favorite festivals, so I highly recommend experiencing it at least once!
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Location: Shitennoji Temple
Date: January 14, 2026 ⁑
Access: 5 minutes on foot from Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka Station, Osaka Metro Tanimachi Line
Admission: Free
Website:https://www.shitennoji.or.jp/event/1/#event971
Shojingu
Source: Official website
"Shojingu" is an event held at Shitennoji to celebrate the birth of Prince Shotoku, the temple's founder. Prince Shotoku was a member of the imperial family and a politician who is considered one of Japan's most prominent historical figures, known for spreading peace, etiquette, and Buddhist teachings.
During the "Shojingu," a variety of foods from the sea and mountains are offered in front of the prince's statue. In 2024, which marked the 1450th anniversary of his birth, a three-day Buddhist service was held, limited to 300 participants on a first-come, first-served basis.
While it may not be a flashy festival, it offers a chance to experience Japanese tradition in a serene atmosphere. It might be a good opportunity to quietly reflect on Prince Shotoku, who was known for his gentle and intelligent nature.
<Information>
Location: Shitennoji
Date: January 12, 2026 ⁑
Access: 5-minute walk from Shitennojimae-yuhigaoka Station on the Osaka Metro Tanimachi Line
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.shitennoji.or.jp/%E7%94%9F%E8%BA%AB%E4%BE%9B/
Daishikai (Kobo Daishi Memorial Service)
Source:Official website
Daishikai is one of Shitennoji's most representative ceremonies, held on the 21st of every month. The 21st of each month is observed as the monthly memorial day of Kobo Daishi, the founder of the Shingon Sect of Buddhism, and in his honor, Shitennoji holds this ceremony to pay tribute to his memory.
On the day of the ceremony, food stalls and an antique market set up throughout the temple grounds, drawing large and lively crowds. Additionally, the Five-Storied Pagoda — which normally requires an admission fee — is opened to the public for free, so if you'd like to go inside, be sure to arrive early.
If you're looking to enjoy the lively atmosphere of a traditional Japanese festival, this is definitely worth a visit.
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- Location: Shitennoji Temple
- Date: January 21, 2027
- Access: 5-minute walk from "Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka Station" on the Subway Tanimachi Line
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://www.shitennoji.or.jp/event/1/
Don't Just Enjoy Traditional Culture in Osaka — Dive Into Its Rich Food Scene Too!
Osaka is not only a city where you can enjoy traditional culture, but also one with an incredibly rich food culture. Join a Magical Trip tour and explore the city while savoring everything Osaka's dining scene has to offer.
On the Osaka Local Foodie Tour through Dotonbori and Shinsekai, you can stroll through the streets and enjoy Osaka specialties like Takoyaki and Kushikatsu as you go. Then at night, join the Night Tour for bar hopping in Namba and make the most of the Izakaya scene.
If you want to truly experience Osaka's food culture, these tours are not to be missed.
Osaka Local Foodie Tour in Dotonbori and Shinsekai
- Meeting Point: FamilyMart Sanno Dobutsuen-mae Store
- Tour Area: Shinsekai, Hozenji, Dotonbori
- Start Time: 11:30, 16:30, 17:30
Details:https://www.magical-trip.com/product/763e12a9-ef93-4ae4-8e17-cf86eda92b3f
Osaka Bar Hopping Night Tour in Namba
- Meeting Point: FamilyMart Namba 1-chome Store
- Tour Area: Namba, Dotonbori
- Start Time: 18:00, 19:00
Details:https://www.magical-trip.com/product/a9a2ebd9-ced6-4793-a0cf-14488d92b03a
Three Traditional Festivals Held at Osaka's Most Iconic Shrines and Temples
Tsunahiki Shinji: A Unique Osaka Tradition
Source: Official website
Every year, on the third Sunday of January, Nanba Yasaka Shrine in Osaka hosts the traditional Tsunahiki Shinji festival. This historical event, recognized as an intangible cultural asset of Osaka City, commemorates the victory of the gods over the mythical eight-headed serpent, Yamata no Orochi, believed to protect people from evil spirits.
The festival, which has its roots in the Edo period (1600-1868), used to involve tugging a rope from side to side, with the winning side expected to bring good fortune for the year. Today, the festival features a rope weighing about 300 kilograms, shaped to represent the eight-headed serpent, which is then pulled in the auspicious direction known as "Eho" for that year. A highlight of the festival is the procession around the shrine while chanting "Namba no Tsunahiki Yoiyoi," as participants carry the rope.
<Information>
Location: Namba Yasaka Shrine
Date: January 19, 2026 (Third Sunday of January)
Access: Approximately 6 minutes on foot from Namba Station, Osaka Metro Midosuji Line and Yotsubashi Line
Admission: Free
Website:https://nambayasaka.jp/?page_id=145
Hatsu-Tenjin Usokae Festival (Domyoji Tenmangu)
Source:Official website
At Domyoji Tenmangu, the Hatsu-Tenjin Usokae Festival is held on January 25. This festival is a beloved Osaka Event in January 2027 where participants exchange Usodori — hand-carved wooden bird figurines made by shrine priests — with one another.
Usodori are wooden bird dolls carved from wood and are considered lucky charms believed to bring good fortune. They can be purchased for 500 yen and are said to ward off misfortune and illness.
When exchanging, the rule is to approach someone nearby and say "Kaemashou, Kaemashou" (meaning "let's exchange Usodori") to initiate the swap. Once a drum sounds, the exchanging stops. If the bag contains the character for "gold (金)," you can exchange for a gold-colored Usodori; if it reads "silver (銀)," you receive a silver one.
If your bag reads "wood (木)," you can exchange for a wooden Usodori. Some bags contain no characters at all, but these are still considered effective lucky charms. Usodori are available for 500 yen each, and anyone can take part casually.
- Location: Domyoji Tenmangu
- Date: January 25
- Access: 3-minute walk from Domyojiten Station on the Kintetsu Minami-Osaka Line
- Admission: Free (Usodori 500 yen)
- Website: https://www.domyojitenmangu.com/usokae.html
Toyonaka Ebisu Festival
Source:Official website
At Hattori Tenjingu in Toyonaka, the Ebisu Festival is held every year from January 9 to 11. It is a time-honored festival that not only offers prayers for business prosperity and happiness throughout the year, but also marks the very beginning of the new year.
At the Ebisu Festival, it is customary for Lucky Girls to welcome visitors, and Hattori Tenjingu is said to be the birthplace of this tradition.
Hattori Tenjingu is also well known as a shrine dedicated to the deity of legs and feet. It is said that people suffering from foot or leg ailments can speed up their recovery by offering prayers here.
I myself visit this festival every year to pray for a happy year ahead.
- Location: Hattori Tenjingu
- Date: January 9–11, 2027
- Access: 1-minute walk from Hattoritenjin Station on the Hankyu Takarazuka Line
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://hattoritenjingu.or.jp/
Three Special Experiences You Can Only Have in Osaka in January
Osaka Hikari no Kyoen: A Winter Spectacle
Source: Osaka City Official website
Osaka Hikari no Kyoen is a grand winter event that transforms the city with spectacular illuminations. Running for about three months, this event turns Osaka into a dazzling theme park with projections, laser shows, and more.
From November to December, major spots like Midosuji and Nakanoshima are brilliantly lit, creating a festive Christmas atmosphere. From January onwards, local businesses and organizations create unique illuminations to promote regional revitalization. The event features everything from glamorous cityscapes to charming, locally-inspired displays.
This year marks the 12th edition of the festival. See how Osaka is illuminated and check out last year's highlights on their official Instagram!
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Location: Various locations across Osaka City
Date: November 2025 to January 2026
Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hikari_kyouen/
Osaka International Women's Marathon & Osaka Half Marathon
Source:Official website
On January 25, the Osaka Women's Marathon is held throughout Osaka City. This international women's marathon takes place every year in late January, bringing together top-level runners from around the world to compete in a thrilling race.
The marathon can be watched freely from the roadside, and since the course passes through areas such as Midosuji and around Osaka Castle, it is easy to catch a glimpse of the race between sightseeing stops.
Among the participating runners are many who are active on the world stage, and their speed is guaranteed to leave you absolutely exhilarated.
If you want to witness elite runners competing right before your eyes, this is definitely worth a visit.
- Location: Osaka City, Yanmar Stadium Nagai
- Date: January 25, 2027
- Access: 5-minute walk from Tsurugaoka Station on the JR Hanwa Line
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://www.osaka-marathon.jp/
6th Anniversary Illumination "Garden of Light — The Sparkle of 66,666 Bulbs"
Source:Official website
At Soraniwa Onsen, a popular hot spring facility in Osaka, an illumination event is held from November through March. Set against the backdrop of the Japanese garden within the grounds, approximately 66,666 light bulbs illuminate the entire garden in a warm, glowing embrace.
During your stroll, you can walk through the light holding a lantern in hand. There are plenty of highlights throughout the grounds, including a brilliantly lit Torii gate and a breathtaking blue-glowing wisteria trellis.
I visit this facility every winter myself, not only to warm my body in the hot springs but also to warm my heart as I take in the lights. If you want to enjoy both hot springs and a dazzling illumination at the same time, this is an event you simply should not miss.
- Location: Soraniwa Onsen
- Date: November 15, 2027 – March 10, 2027
- Access: Immediately accessible on foot from Benten-bashi Station (JR / Osaka Metro)
- Admission: From 1,980 yen (night rate)
- Website: https://solaniwa.com/
For a Stress-Free Way to Explore Osaka's Beautiful Attractions, a Private Car Tour Is Highly Recommended
If you want to move around Osaka and its surrounding areas smoothly and without any hassle, a Private Car Tour with a dedicated vehicle and guide is the way to go. This tour takes you not only to Osaka's top sights but also to the iconic attractions of Nara.
The private car will pick you up and drop you off directly at your hotel in Osaka, which makes meeting up with your guide a seamless and convenient experience.
During the tour, you will visit magnificent buildings and immerse yourself in Japan's rich history as you go. If you want to enjoy sightseeing while getting around smoothly and effortlessly, this tour is well worth joining.
- Meeting Point: Your accommodation hotel or a designated meeting location
- Tour Area: Osaka, Nara
- Start Time: 9:00
