Kishiwada Danjiri Festival is a thrilling traditional event held every September in Kishiwada City, Osaka. Massive wooden floats called danjiri, weighing over 4 tons, race through the streets at breakneck speeds—a truly breathtaking sight. For visitors, it offers a rare chance to experience Japanese traditional culture up close, sure to become a highlight of any trip. The location is also conveniently accessible as a day trip from central Osaka.
This article condenses everything travelers need to know—from highlights of the festival to practical tips—into one essential guide.
Contents
How to Get to Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri
By Train
Shin-Osaka Station
Take the JR Kyoto Line to Osaka Station (about 5 minutes).
From Osaka Station, take the JR Osaka Loop Line to Shin-Imamiya Station (about 15 minutes).
Transfer to the Nankai Main Line at Shin-Imamiya Station and get off at either Kishiwada Station or Takojizo Station (about 30–35 minutes).
Kansai Airport Station
Take the Nankai Airport Line Airport Express to Kishiwada Station (about 15–20 minutes).
Namba Station
Take the Nankai Main Line directly to Kishiwada Station or Takojizo Station (about 25–30 minutes).
From Kishiwada Station, it’s a zero-minute walk—since the station is right within the main event route, you’ll be immersed in the experience as soon as you step outside.
Check the latest weather forecast before your visit: [weathernews ]
Recommended Itineraries
kishiwada danjiri matsuri 2025 date
Trial Run
Sunday, September 7 and Friday, September 12
Main Festival
Day 1:
Two days before and the day before Respect-for-Senior-Citizens Day.
Half or Full Day Plan
6:00 – Hikidashi (First day only)
9:00 – Morning Danjiri Parade (First day only)
13:00 – Afternoon Danjiri Parade
19:00 – Lantern-Lit Danjiri Parade
Top Attractions and Things to Do
Haruki District Danjiri Festival
The dynamic danjiri experience is also held in the neighboring Haruki District on the same schedule. This area tends to be less crowded than Kishiwada , making it ideal for those who prefer to avoid large crowds. It’s about a 5-minute train ride from Kishiwada.
kishiwada danjiri kaikan
Inside the museum, visitors can take a closer look at the oldest existing Danjiri (the real one) and the detailed carvings and decorations of the Danjiri.
Best Local Foods to Try
Osaka is famous for its street food, and Kishiwada is no exception—local vendors now serve fusion takoyaki with cheese and truffle oil, adding a modern twist to this classic snack.
Takoyaki – Octopus-filled dough balls with savory sauce.Kushikatsu – Crispy skewers of meat and vegetables, served with dipping sauce.Okonomiyaki – A savory pancake with cabbage and pork, grilled and topped with sauce and mayo.
Where to Stay
There are few accommodations near the local area, so booking a hotel in central Osaka will make your trip more comfortable and convenient.
Luxury
Hotel Royal Classic Osaka – Directly connected to Namba StationSwissotel Nankai Osaka – Directly connected to Nankai Namba StationAPA Hotel & Resort Namba Ekimae Tower – About 2 minutes’ walk from JR Namba StationCaption by Hyatt Namba Osaka – About 5 minutes’ walk from Namba StationCentara Grand Hotel Osaka – About 5 minutes’ walk from Namba StationHotel Nikko Osaka – Directly connected to Shinsaibashi StationTokyu Stay Mercure Namba – About 3 minutes’ walk from Namba StationOsaka Marriott Miyako Hotel – Directly connected to Tennoji StationMiyako City Osaka Tennoji – About 1 minute’s walk from Tennoji Station
Mid-Range
Hiyori Hotel Osaka Namba Station – About 2 minutes’ walk from Nankai Namba StationHotel Monterey Grasmere Osaka – Directly connected to JR Namba StationNamba Oriental Hotel – About 3 minutes’ walk from Namba StationCross Hotel Osaka – About 3 minutes’ walk from Namba StationAPA Hotel Namba Shinsaibashi – About 5 minutes’ walk from Namba StationAgora Place Osaka Namba – About 5 minutes’ walk from Namba StationSmile Hotel Namba – About 5 minutes’ walk from Sakuragawa StationThe OneFive Osaka Namba Dotonbori – About 5 minutes’ walk from Namba StationRichmond Hotel Namba Daikokucho – About 3 minutes’ walk from Daikokucho StationHotel Trusty Osaka Abeno – About 5 minutes’ walk from Tennoji Station
FAQ
What is the best time to see the Kishiwada Danjiri Festival?
For first-time visitors, Saturday and Sunday from 2 PM to 5 PM during the main event are recommended.
Is the festival held even if it rains?
It will proceed unless a typhoon directly hits the area. However, it may be suspended if severe weather warnings such as lightning alerts are issued.
Do I need a reservation to watch the Danjiri Festival?
No reservation is needed for general viewing areas, which are free. However, paid seating does require advance reservation.
Can I watch the festival in the evening?
Yes. From 7 PM, the floats are lit with lanterns and pulled at a slower pace in a more solemn procession, which can also be enjoyed by visitors.
Is the festival safe for families with children?
The main streets can get crowded, but watching from slightly more distant spots is safe and enjoyable. It’s best to avoid bringing strollers.
Are there any rules for taking photos at the festival?
Flash photography is not prohibited, but the use of drones is strictly forbidden.
Are there plenty of food stalls during the festival?
Yes. Numerous stalls line the area, offering local favorites like takoyaki and yakisoba.
Conclusion
The Kishiwada Danjiri Festival is more than just a spectacle—it’s an immersive cultural experience that engages all your senses. With its intense parade scenes, the shared spirit of the local community, and easy access from central Osaka, it’s a perfect destination for international visitors . To make the most of your trip, knowing the key details in advance is essential.
If you’re visiting Osaka in September, consider adding Kishiwada to your itinerary for a truly extraordinary cultural adventure . You’re sure to feel the “ultimate kind of crazy” that defines this unforgettable event.
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