Ultimate Guide to Osaka Events September 2025: Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri and Must-See Celebrations
Osaka is a popular tourist destination where unique "food culture" and "comedy culture" are deeply rooted. While it has a casual image with easily enjoyable local foods and the friendly nature of Osaka residents, many historically rich traditional events also remain.
Autumn in Osaka is packed with events that have become seasonal highlights. There are traditional festivals that carry on the inheritance of Japanese culture, allowing you to rediscover the unique charm that is distinctly Osaka.
This time, we'll introduce autumn events centered around Osaka's representative "Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri."
September's Osaka Event September 2025 Features the Must-See "Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri" - One of Osaka's Top Festivals
The "Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri" is a traditional festival representing Osaka. Its brave and powerful spectacle makes it one of Japan's "Three Great Fighting Festivals."
This festival, passed down through generations, is an important event that inherits Kishiwada's history and culture. Its existence is a source of pride for Kishiwada citizens and Osaka residents, and many people who have left their hometown return specifically for the danjiri festival.
What is the "Danjiri Matsuri"?
The "Danjiri Matsuri" is a traditional festival that has continued for about 300 years in Kishiwada City, Osaka Prefecture, which retains the atmosphere of a castle town. It is said to have begun in 1703 as an event praying for abundant harvests of crops, and is still held today to pray for good harvests and large catches.
The festival's main attraction is the fierce high-speed pulling of floats called "danjiri." The spectacular sight of 400 to 1,000 pullers moving danjiri weighing up to 4 tons and racing through the streets is truly powerful.
Schedule, Location, and Access for the "Danjiri Matsuri"
The Danjiri Matsuri is held twice - in September and October. The city's eight regions are divided into two groups: in September, the seaside Kishiwada and Haruki districts participate, while in October, the remaining six districts on the mountain side take part.
What is commonly known as the Danjiri Matsuri mainly refers to the September festival. The largest-scale excitement occurs around Kishiwada Station, where you can also enjoy food trucks offering local specialties and regional gourmet food.
From Osaka Station to Kishiwada Station takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour by train including transfers. From the popular tourist destination Kyoto, it takes about 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours with two train transfers.
Since the danjiri travel various routes throughout the city, be sure to check the official website's map as well!
Schedule: September 13-14, 2025 / October 11-12, 2025
Location: Around Kishiwada Station
Access: Short walk from Nankai Electric Railway Main Line "Kishiwada Station"
Website: https://www-city-kishiwada-lg-jp.translate.goog/site/danjiri/?_x_tr_sl=ja&_x_tr_tl=en&_x_tr_hl=ja
Highlights of the "Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri" That I Eagerly Await Every Year
The Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri has many highlights. Here, as someone who considers themselves a huge fan of the Danjiri Matsuri, I've picked out points I especially want to recommend. Reading this will help you enjoy the Danjiri Matsuri even more!
The Festival's Signature Spectacular "Yarimawashi"
The biggest highlight of the Danjiri Matsuri is undoubtedly the "yarimawashi." This is the dynamic performance when the floats turn at intersections and corners, and it's no exaggeration to say I go specifically to see this.
The thrilling and powerful "yarimawashi" makes the roles of braking and steering crucial positions, and is said to be the ultimate showcase of the pullers' skills.
The role called "Daikugata," who rides on the roof of the float and gives directional instructions, is the star player of the Danjiri Matsuri. They excite the festival by waving fans dramatically on the roof while jumping up and standing on one foot.
The Beautiful Carvings and Decorations on the "Danjiri"
While danjiri have a strong image of being powerfully pulled through the streets, please pay attention to the delicate and beautiful carvings and decorations on the main body.
The carvings that make use of the wood grain of the zelkova wood used for the danjiri feature motifs of people, animals, flowers, and birds. Many characteristically depict scenes from mythology used in kabuki performances and folk tales.
At my favorite hidden gem spot, the "Kishiwada Danjiri Hall," beautiful carvings by carvers and miniature danjiri are displayed. Visiting here before participating in the festival will make it even more enjoyable!
[Kishiwada Danjiri Hall]
Access: 10-minute walk from Kishiwada Station
Opening Hours: 10:00-17:00 (Closed Mondays)
Admission: Adults 600 yen / Children 300 yen
Website: https://kishibura.jp/danjiri/
Beauty Increases Even More When Lanterns Are Lit at Night
The post-sunset festival, where you can further appreciate the beauty of the danjiri, is also a must-see. About 200 large and small lanterns are lit, creating a warm and fantastic atmosphere.
From the powerful and energetic appearance of the danjiri during the day, there's a complete transformation to a solemn and traditional atmosphere. The charm is that you can observe leisurely at night as they slowly travel through the streets.
There are also scenes where small children mainly pull the floats, which can be said to be a sight unique to the Danjiri Matsuri that has been passed down through generations for many years.
The Powerful "Narimono (Festival Music)" That Further Enlivens the Danjiri Matsuri
Essential to Japanese festivals is the "festival music" that enlivens the festival with unique rhythms and tones. The instruments that comprise festival music are called "narimono," and the Danjiri Matsuri uses two flutes, small drums, large drums, and gongs. A characteristic of the Kishiwada Danjiri is using sticks made from a combination of deer antlers and bamboo to strike the gongs.
During the day, powerful tones played by adults resonate, while at night, cheerful rhythms played by children echo through the air - I always enjoy the different atmospheres of each.
The sound of the Danjiri Matsuri's narimono is a special tone that has been familiar to Kishiwada people since childhood. Please feel it throughout your body together with the local people!
This incredible Osaka Event September 2025 offers tourists an authentic glimpse into traditional Japanese culture while experiencing the dynamic energy that makes Osaka so special. Don't miss this opportunity to witness one of Japan's most exciting festivals!
"Kishiwada Danjiri Festival" Top 3 Recommended Viewing Spots - Essential Osaka Event September 2025
Planning your visit to this spectacular Osaka Event September 2025? Here we introduce the most recommended viewing spots for the legendary "Kishiwada Danjiri Festival." Having observed from various locations myself, I've carefully selected these 3 prime spots for tourists seeking an authentic Japanese cultural experience.
Each location offers its own unique charm, so please choose according to your preferences and objectives for this unforgettable Osaka Event September 2025!
1. Kishiwada Station Front Shopping Street - The Heart of This Osaka Event September 2025
The main spectacle of this incredible Osaka Event September 2025 unfolds at the "Kishiwada Station Front Shopping Street." The entire 265-meter shopping street continuing from Kishiwada Station transforms into the festival course, with massive danjiri passing vigorously through the 10.6-meter-high arcade designed specifically for these traditional floats.
The first day of this premier Osaka Event September 2025, when station front parades are also held, is particularly exciting with a festive atmosphere that captivates tourists from around the world. The powerful yarimawashi (turning maneuvers) rushing past at close range brings the audience's excitement to its peak. This is my favorite spot that I especially recommend first-time visitors to this remarkable Osaka event experience.
Perfect for tourists who want to:
- Fully immerse themselves in the lively and powerful atmosphere unique to this traditional Osaka Event September 2025
- Experience the authentic energy of Japanese festival culture
Tourist Information:
- Access: Get off at Nankai Electric Railway Nankai Main Line "Kishiwada Station" and walk immediately
- Website: https://www.kishiwadashotengai.com/
- Best for: First-time festival visitors and photography enthusiasts
2. Haruki District - The Intimate Side of Osaka Event September 2025
For tourists seeking a more intimate experience of this Osaka Event September 2025, the area around Nankai Electric Railway Nankai Main Line "Haruki Station" offers an exceptional viewing opportunity. Most of the course runs through charming residential areas, creating a peaceful landscape that showcases local Japanese community life.
The danjiri of Haruki district, affectionately called "beautiful-type danjiri," features exquisite carvings on the main body that represent centuries of craftsmanship. Compared to the bustling Kishiwada district, there are fewer spectators at this Osaka Event September 2025 location, allowing the danjiri to pass much closer to viewers - perfect for appreciating the intricate decorative details!
When viewing this Osaka Event September 2025 in Haruki district, please be respectful of private property and enjoy responsibly as you witness this living piece of Japanese heritage.
Perfect for tourists who want to:
- Enjoy the festival in a friendly, authentic neighborhood atmosphere
- Observe danjiri craftsmanship up close and photograph details
- Experience local Japanese community culture
Tourist Information:
- Access: Get off at Nankai Electric Railway Nankai Main Line "Haruki Station" and walk immediately
- Best for: Cultural enthusiasts and photographers seeking detailed shots
3. Kankanba VIP Viewing Seats - Premium Osaka Event September 2025 Experience
Source:PR TIMES
For tourists who prefer comfort while experiencing this extraordinary Osaka Event September 2025, the dynamic yarimawashi at the legendary spot called "Kankanba" represents one of the festival's biggest highlights. "Kankanba" features paid viewing seats where international visitors can safely enjoy the raw power of yarimawashi from premium locations.
The Sofa VIP seats come with exclusive perks including traditional lunch boxes and all-you-can-drink beverages - perfect for tourists wanting to savor this Osaka Event September 2025 in comfort. This relaxed viewing style has become increasingly popular among international visitors as a sophisticated way to enjoy traditional Japanese festivals.
Perfect for tourists who want to:
- View this Osaka Event September 2025 while sitting comfortably in a safe location
- Enjoy the festival in a relaxed, premium atmosphere with refreshments
- Ideal for families with small children, elderly visitors, or those with mobility concerns
Tourist Information:
- Access: Get off at Nankai Electric Railway Nankai Main Line "Kishiwada Station" and walk 10 minutes
- Admission: Varies by seat type and package (advance booking recommended for this popular Osaka Event September 2025)
- Official Website: https://www.city.kishiwada.lg.jp/site/kishiwada-side/kankanba.html
- Ticket Reservations: https://www.tryhardjapanevent.com/kishiwada-danjiri
Complete Your Osaka Event September 2025 with Traditional Cuisine Experience
After experiencing this magnificent traditional Osaka Event September 2025, enhance your visit by joining guided food tours that showcase Osaka's legendary culinary scene. These expert-led tours, perfect for international tourists, allow you to fully explore "Shinsekai" and "Dotombori" - Osaka's most iconic entertainment districts.
Savor authentic kushikatsu, takoyaki, and okonomiyaki at local establishments where residents gather, experiencing the genuine warmth and vibrant energy that makes this Osaka Event September 2025 region so special. These guided experiences complement your festival visit perfectly, offering insights into both traditional and modern Osaka culture.
The tour's unique appeal lies in exploring a city where ancient "tradition" and modern "evolution" seamlessly blend - visit historic shrines and temples, then navigate narrow back alleys filled with contemporary energy, creating the perfect conclusion to your Osaka Event September 2025 adventure.
Complete Tourist Experience Information:
- Meeting Point: Imamiya Ebisu Station
- Tour Areas: Shinsekai/Dotombori districts
- Start Times: 11:30 AM / 4:30 PM / 5:30 PM
- Perfect for: Food enthusiasts, cultural explorers, and anyone wanting to maximize their Osaka Event September 2025 experience
Other Must-See Osaka Events You Can Enjoy in September 2025
Koiya Festival
Source: Official website
The "Koiya Festival" is a dance festival featuring approximately 100 teams and 4,500 participants from across Japan. It was started in 2000 primarily by university students to encourage Osaka, which had been affected by the Hanshin-Awaji Great Earthquake. The festival's three main concepts are "emotion and interaction," "a festival created by everyone for everyone," and "a festival of dancing in extraordinary spaces."
From traditional Japanese dances to hip-hop, passionate performances across various genres create an atmosphere where the audience and stage unite in excitement. At the venue, you'll find food stalls run by university student volunteers, merchandise sales, and game booths for children, making it enjoyable for both adults and kids!
Information:
- Date: September 27-28, 2025
- Location: Fukakita Green Space Main Stage and other venues
- Access: Take JR Gakken-Toshi Line to "Nozaki Station" or "Shijonawate Station," then walk approximately 15 minutes
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://koiya.net/
TV Osaka YATAI Festival
Source: Official website
The "TV Osaka YATAI Festival" is a major autumn event celebrating gourmet food and entertainment. Popular Osaka restaurants as well as carefully selected gourmet vendors from across Japan gather together. Michelin Guide-listed establishments also participate, making it an attractive opportunity to savor famous restaurants from all over Japan while staying in Osaka. Make sure to come hungry so you can visit various food stalls!
There are also plenty of stage events and hands-on experience booths. When I visited last year, I tried virtual sports experiences using VR technology. Please enjoy yourself freely in the pleasant autumn weather.
Information:
- Date: September 19-23, 2025
- Location: Flower Expo Memorial Park Tsurumi Ryokuchi
- Access: Take Osaka Metro to "Tsurumi Ryokuchi Station," immediate walk from the station
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://www.tv-osaka.co.jp/tvofes/
Tenshiba Oktoberfest
Source: Official website
"Tenshiba Oktoberfest" allows you to taste various authentic German beers and foods under the autumn sky. While it was usually held in September each year, in 2025 it was held in May as "Frühlingsfest." Future plans are undecided, so we'll bring you information as soon as details become available!
Website: http://tenshiba-oktoberfest.com/
After Enjoying Events During the Day, Enjoy Bar Hopping with Locals at Night!
If you want to enjoy food and drinks in Osaka's charming nighttime streets, why not participate in this tour guided by a dedicated guide? It's approximately a 3-hour tour that includes a full dinner and 3-4 drinks.
Recommended Points of This Tour:
- Local guides who know Osaka's nightlife inside and out carefully select 3 establishments
- Enjoy Osaka gourmet foods like takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu
- Savor sake, shochu, Japanese beer, and more
- Experience friendly and lively Osaka izakaya atmosphere
My recommendation is that you can experience local izakaya and bars that would be difficult for tourists to enter on their own. Please fully enjoy the lively atmosphere of Osaka at night!
Meeting point: Subway Namba Station
Tour area: Hozenji Temple/Namba/Dotombori
Start times: 6:00 PM/7:00 PM