Osaka is a beautiful city, known for its liveness, and color-popping modern and historical landmarks. Not to mention its locals are known throughout Japan for their kindness, openness, and great sense of humor. But, far beyond the tourist spots that guidebooks recommend, Osaka has a lot of hidden gems, delicious food, and fun events that can often be missed when traveling throughout the city. In today’s article, let me introduce you to some of the best activities you can enjoy in August.
Sumiyoshi Matsuri – Photo Credit: 住吉大社
Sumiyoshi Matsuri
Let’s start our journey with one of Osaka’s biggest summer festivals: the Sumiyoshi Matsuri (festival). Sumiyoshi Matsuri, also known as Oharae (purification), is a festival held to ward off misfortune, diseases, and other bad omens. Not only will you be able to admire the beautiful architecture of the Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine in which this three-day festival will be conducted. But you can also enjoy witnessing the rich cultural aspect of the numerous rites and celebrations carried out during this event. For instance, one such ceremony is the “Nagoshi no Harae Shinji” (summer purification ceremony), where a procession of maidens, children, and dancers, all dressed in Muromachi period costumes (1336-1573), passes through purified rings made out of plaited grass.
Dates: 30th of July to 1st of August 2024
Location: Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine
Website: Sumiyoshi Taisha
For more details, please visit the website
Takatsuki Festival – Photo Credit: Takatsuki Official Travel Guide
Takatsuki Festival, Unagi and Kakigori
Located not too far from the city is Takatsuki, the 7th largest city in Osaka prefecture. If you have the opportunity to visit this marvelous area, filled with an ambiance of nostalgia, you may also want to attend the Takatsuki festival. A matsuri brimming with music and various performances, ranging from traditional dances like the “Bon Odori” to modern ones such as the Takatsuki Wave.
While you are at it, take a look at the variety of interesting stalls that are ready to allure you. If you get the chance, do try Unagi (eel). Eel is particularly appreciated in the summer as it gives strength and stamina to fight off the harsh heat and humidity that August is known for. And to top it off, why not cool your body with an Osaka-style Kakigori while you’re at it?
Dates: 3rd and 4th of August 2024
Location: Takatsuki City Hall, Takatsuki Arts Theater, Tōen Elementary School, Keyaki Boulevard and Takatsuki Castle Park
Website: 高槻まつり公式サイト (takatsuki-matsuri.org)
Takatsuki Official Travel Guide (takatsuki-kankou.org)
For more details, please visit the websites
Naniwa Yodogawa Fireworks Festival – Photo Credit: Visit Japan International
The Naniwa Yodogawa Fireworks Festival
If there is a festival not to miss, I would suggest this one. A beautiful and enchanting matsuri where two old nemesis finally join their hands to create and welcome, an ethereal scenery painted in the sky. When the darkness of the night finally succumbs to its temptation and lets its guard down, it is embraced by ravishing light emanating from man-made machines. Along the calmness of the river, let the picturesque arts generated by the festival’s fireworks transport you into another world full of magic.
Dates: 3rd of August 2024
Location: Yodogawa River
Website: 第36回 なにわ淀川花火大会 公式サイト (yodohanabi.com)
For more details, please visit the website
Umeda Tanabata Festival -Photo Credit: Discover Osaka
Umeda Tanabata Festival
You may have heard the word Tanabata before, but let me refresh your memory. Tanabata festival celebrates the love story between Orihime, the weaver (known as Vega in English), and Hikoboshi, the cow herd (Altair star in English).
Once upon a time, a hardworking weaver, Orihime, was saddened as her workload would prohibit her from meeting her true love. Upon seeing her sorrow, her father, the Sky King, Tentei, immediately arranged for her to meet Hikoboshi. It was love at first sight. Falling head over heels to each other, they started neglecting their respective duties. Angered by their irresponsibility, Tentei forbade them to see each other and cast them on each side of the Milky Way. Alas, Orihime fell into despair. Seeing the tears in the eyes of his beloved daughter, Tentei regained his mind and made her a compromise: he would let the lovers meet on the 7th day of the 7th month if Orihime completed her weaving.
To celebrate this event, the Umeda Sky Building and its surroundings display various decorations graciously lent by the Sendai Tanabata Matsuri. You can take a stroll around the area while admiring the beautiful ornaments, and let yourself get immersed in Orihime and Hikoboshi’s love story.
Dates: 2nd of June – 8th of August 2024
Location: Umeda Sky Building
For more details, please visit the website
Dancing on the Shotengai – Photo Credit: Tenjin Tenma Awa Odori Website
Tenjin Tenma Awa Odori Matsuri and Summer Sonic
If you enjoy music and performances, let me recommend two fun activities to attend. The first one is the Tenjin Tenma Awa Odori festival, where a group of dancers will perform various traditional dances within the “Tokushima City Awa Odori” and the “Tenjin Tenma Awa Odori”. The bonus part is that you can also participate in it if you wish to do so.
Dates: 6th and 24th of August 2024
Location: Oyodo Community Center and Kita Ward Civic Center
For more details, please visit the website
Summer Sonic, Osaka – Photo Credit: Summer Sonic
The second one is the Summer Sonic. It is an annual two-day rock festival held in Osaka, where local artists and major international groups will perform. It is considered one of Japan’s biggest music events, so be sure not to miss it.
Dates: 17th and 18th of August 2024
Location: Expo’70 Commemorative Park
Website: SUMMER SONIC 2024 Official Site
For more details, please visit the website
As you can see, not only is Osaka a lovely city full of charms, but the activities it offers are as interesting and fun-filled as its locals. From music festivals to traditional dances, from a love story about two stars to a night filled with wondrous lights, everything that you can imagine, Osaka humbly offers it all. Let this beautiful city illuminate your trip.
Feature photo credit: Owl CK
Want to have more fun on your trip to Osaka? Join a culinary tour and discover the city as a local!
