Ultimate Guide to Tenjin Matsuri 2025: Dates, Highlights, and More!

Tenjin Matsuri is one of Japan’s most vibrant and historic festivals, with a tradition spanning over a thousand years. This grand summer event in Osaka is known for its lively atmosphere, cultural performances, fireworks, and processions that take place on both land and in the water.

Join us on a journey through time as we uncover the traditions and thrills of this spectacular event, ensuring you have everything you need to know to ensure an unforgettable experience at what many consider one of Japan’s top three festivals.

To immerse yourself in the Tenjin Matsuri 2025 festivities, you'll need to navigate the historic city of Osaka. The festival spans two days, each with distinct venues and experiences.

Day 1: On the first day, the event typically begins at Osaka's Tenman-gu Shrine, the spiritual heart of the festival. It's located in Kita Ward and accessible via the Osaka Metro's Minami-Morimachi Station on the Sakaisuji and Tainimachi lines. 

Day 2: On the second day is the festival's main event, famed for the ritualistic land and boat processions. From Tenman-gu Shrine, drummers lead a long procession of colorfully costumed characters and portable shrines through Osaka's city streets towards the Okawa River. At around 6 p.m., the portable shrines are loaded into “stage boats” that float down the river. The most accessible vantage points of the water processions are from the public areas along the river, with multiple subway and train stations nearby, such as Temmabashi Station or Sakuranomiya Station. 

Tenjin Matsuri’s beginnings can be traced back to 951 AD with a sacred Japanese rite called Hoko-nagashi. In this ancient ceremony, a sacred spear would be set adrift down the river, close to Osaka Tenman-gu Shrine. Whichever bank the spear would wash ashore on each year was seen as divinely chosen, marking it as the spot to set up the Otabisho — a temporary abode for a divine spirit to ward off disease and bring health and harmony to the city’s inhabitants.

Today, this ancient rite is celebrated with two main events: the Rikutogyo land procession and the Funatogyo boat procession. Rikutogyo features a vibrant parade of costumed participants through Osaka, showcasing portable shrines. Funatogyo involves a boat parade along the Okawa River, where the shrines are loaded aboard, which is then highlighted by fireworks, adding to the festival’s ambience.

Boasting a rich tradition that spans over a millennium, Tenjin Matsuri has been recognized as one of Japan’s top three festivals, drawing in more than a million participants and spectators over its two-day celebration. 

The festival's main attraction is during its second day (July 25), where spectators can immerse themselves in traditional Japanese culture, with a view of the colorful street parade dancers and even a chance to experience live Noh (14th-century drama theater) and Bunraku (Japanese puppet theater) performances on floating stages.

As the evening approaches, the festival's main attraction unfolds with a mesmerizing boat procession on the Okawa River. Illuminated boats, some adorned with bonfires, carry portable shrines, creating a breathtaking spectacle.

The day culminates in a dazzling fireworks display over the river, marking the procession's conclusion and the return of the portable shrines back to Tenman-gu Shrine.

Festivalgoers can also take advantage of the myriad of food stalls scattered along the riverbank, offering a huge range of uniquely Japanese street food delicacies and beverages.

For those exploring Osaka during the vibrant Tenjin Matsuri, there’s much to see beyond the festival grounds:

Osaka Museum of History: Just a short walk from the festival location, near the iconic Osaka Castle, this museum offers a deep dive into Osaka’s past, from ancient times to the modern era. It’s a perfect spot for history buffs looking to understand the city’s evolution. 

Nakanoshima Park: Located in Nakanoshima, a mere 10-minute walk from Osaka Tenman-gu Shrine, this park offers a serene escape from the festival’s excitement. It’s an ideal place for a leisurely stroll, surrounded by lush greenery and calming river views. 

Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street: As one of Japan’s longest shopping streets, Tenjinbashisuji provides a unique shopping experience right near Osaka Tenman-gu Shrine. From delicious food to souvenirs, it’s a great place to soak in the local vibe and pick up some unique finds.

Find other things to do in Osaka

For those attending Tenjin Matsuri and seeking accommodation, DEL Style Osaka Higashi Temma offers a unique and comfortable stay. Located conveniently close to Tenman-gu Shrine, this hotel boasts a contemporary African-inspired design with a chic semi-monochrome color palette adorned by elements of African art.

Additionally, the hotel features an exclusive ladies’ floor, providing a safe and secure environment for female travelers with room options from single to superior twin.

All guestrooms come fully equipped with humidifying air purifiers and complimentary high-speed wireless internet, ensuring a pleasant and well-connected stay. The mattresses, supplied by Airweave (the official bedding partner of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games), promise excellent sleep quality. Additionally, select rooms include special shower heads which produce nano bubbles for a spa-like experience that enhances your skin and hair health.  

DEL Style Osaka Higashi Temma is conveniently located near Osakatemmangu Station, offering guests easy access to numerous attractions across Osaka via the city’s efficient public transit system. This prime location enables visitors to explore Osaka’s rich cultural landscape, from the bustling streets of Dotonbori to the historic Osaka Castle, all within a short train ride.

Find more hotels in Osaka

Tenjin Matsuri isn’t the only thing happening this summer. In fact, summer in Japan is synonymous with a kaleidoscope of festivals, each offering its own unique glimpse into the nation’s celebrations and traditions.

Whether you’re drawn to the historical depth of traditional celebrations or the dynamic energy of music and dance, there’s a festival in Japan this summer to match every interest.

To find out more, check out our guide to Japan’s best summer festivals.