The Kishiwada Danjiri Festival in Osaka is one of Japan’s most thrilling traditional events. Held every September, it features magnificent floats crafted entirely from zelkova wood, racing at full speed through the historic old town streets. The sight excites and overwhelms everyone who watches. With a history of more than 400 years, this festival remains a proud tradition of the local community. No video or photo can capture its true intensity—you have to experience it in person. Here, we share the impressions of a foreign traveler who witnessed it firsthand.
A Foreigner’s Report on the Kishiwada Danjiri Festival
My name is Bill, a 35-year-old traveler from overseas. I visited Japan with my girlfriend, staying from late August to late September 2024, mainly traveling around Osaka and the Kansai region. Among all the experiences, the most unforgettable one was the Kishiwada Danjiri Festival.
I first heard about this festival during a trip to Nara. By chance, I met a Japanese family from Kishiwada. When I asked them for recommendations, they told me with a smile, “You must see the Kishiwada Danjiri Festival at least once in your lifetime.” Their words stayed in my mind. Later, I searched on YouTube and saw giant wooden floats racing through the streets at full speed. It looked unbelievably wild, but then I learned that this tradition has been carried on for more than 400 years. That mix of craziness and history made me feel I had to experience it in person.
On September 14, 2024, I traveled to Kishiwada with my girlfriend. From the moment we arrived, the whole town was filled with excitement. The sound of drums and flutes echoed through the streets, the cheers of the crowd grew louder, and then the danjiri floats appeared. Each time they turned a sharp corner at full speed, the spectators roared, and my heart pounded with both thrill and admiration. The sense of risk, combined with the unity and pride of the locals, turned it into something much more than just a festival.
This is not an event you can fully appreciate through videos. You have to see it with your own eyes, hear the sound with your own ears, and feel the impact in your chest. Only then will it become one of the greatest memories of your life. The intensity you cannot find at Kyoto’s Gion Festival, the bravery beyond Aomori’s Nebuta Festival, and if you want something even more thrilling than the Rio Carnival, then this autumn, you should head to Kishiwada.
SAKURATop image and first photo courtesy of Bill.
Travel Tips for Enjoying the Kishiwada Danjiri Festival
The Kishiwada Danjiri Festival, held every September in Kishiwada City, Osaka Prefecture, is a traditional event with a history of over 400 years. But it is far more than just a cultural ritual. It is a wildly energetic celebration that grips the hearts of everyone who witnesses it.
The highlight is the dramatic “Yarimawashi.” Teams of hundreds pull and steer enormous wooden floats weighing up to 4 tons, dashing through narrow streets and turning at right angles at full speed. The sight of men pulling the ropes in perfect unison while others steer from behind is breathtaking. Accidents sometimes happen—the floats may crash into poles or even topple over. Yet the participants rise again, pulling with even greater determination, a display of spirit that moves every onlooker.
Atop each float, a performer known as the Daikugata dances with a fan in hand, balancing skillfully on the roof. The floats themselves are true works of art, with elaborate wooden carvings depicting myths, legends, and historical tales.
During the festival, the entire city comes alive with unbelievable energy. Crowds pack the streets, music fills the air, and excitement builds at every turn. Words like “lively” are not enough to describe it—the fearless passion of the participants and the powerful momentum of the floats create one of Japan’s most dynamic, thrilling, and even crazy festivals.
How to Get to Kishiwada Danjiri Festival from Shin-Osaka Station
From Shin-Osaka Station, take the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line to Namba Station (about 15 minutes).
At Namba, transfer to the Nankai Line. Board an express train bound for Wakayama or Kansai Airport, and get off at Kishiwada Station (about 30 minutes). As soon as you step out of the station, you’ll hear the sound of drums and cheers—the festival takes place right in front of you!
Important Note: There is also a JR Higashi-Kishiwada Station, but it’s not convenient for the festival. From there, it’s about a 40-minute walk or a 10-minute bus ride, and catching the right bus can be confusing. Taxis are not recommended either, since traffic restrictions during the festival mean they cannot get close to the venue.
Will You Experience Kishiwada Danjiri?
The Kishiwada Danjiri Festival is held once a year on the second weekend of September. Paid seating is available, but the thrilling “Yarimawashi” turns can be seen from anywhere, and during breaks you can even take close-up photos. However, touching the floats is strictly prohibited, so please follow the rules. Food stalls line the streets throughout the festival, and it is wise to bring drinks, a hat, and a towel for heat protection. Don’t miss the chance to experience the tradition and grandeur of this unique Japanese festival.