(Highlights)
Held in the evening of July 25 each year, this festival attracts more than a million spectators. Dozens of rafts full of invited, kimon...
At your hotel.
Tenma-bashi Bridge
Minami-tenma Park
At your hotel.
(Highlights)
Held in the evening of July 25 each year, this festival attracts more than a million spectators. Dozens of rafts full of invited, kimono-clad people towed by small boats go upstream the major river in the heart of Osaka, while on-lookers watch from the river bank, nearby bridges and the pier. There stand stalls selling varieties of food, filling in every nook and corner of the river bank. Thousands of fireworks are shot up into the night sky to the great enjoyment of visitors.
(Origin of the festival)
The myth says that in the year 951, two years after God descended from heaven and settled in the Tenmangu Shrine, they flowed a sacred float in the river from the nearby beach and a funeral hall was built and "misogi" purification ceremony held at the shore where the float reached. Then, those living near the shrine and worshipers built a ship to contributed to the shrine.
(How to enjoy)
You can see rafts full of "yukata"-clad people in the festive mood on board slowly going upstream the river, while being soaked in the cool evening atmosphere. After dark, fireworks setting the skies ablaze make you sigh in joyful excitement. You can have whatever food you like at the stalls built in the riverbank.
(Transportation)
The JR train fare from Kyoto station to Osaka station is 560 yen and the subway fare, 180 yen.
(Others)
Since the venue is very crowded, please do your utmost in protecting yourself from being bumped by others and from theft. If you are there on the days other than the festival day, you can enjoy cruising on board a sightseeing ship called "Osaka water-bus" for a fee of 1,700 yen for one-hour ride. You can see the landscape of Osaka city from different angles as the ship sails along the river. Daytime only, however.
guide fee, hotel pick-up in Kyoto area
transportation fee (you and guide), lunch, dinner, hotel pick-up in areas beyond Kyoto area, cruising fee
I would like at least 7 days notice before a booking.
We can wait for up to 30 minutes for no additional charges, but if you are late more than 30 minutes, we will ask you 1,000 yen for each 30 minutes.
Hiro-san expertly guided my son and I on a day tour of Kyoto. Hiro met us promptly as promised and kindly provided a sun umbrella for the hot day. He expertly guided us around Kyoto using walking and public transportation, making us feel like locals. Hiro has a very kind manner and was very patient with us, allowing to make changes during the day as needed. He also brought along fun photo props for our day, and promptly sent us photos of us that he had taken. Kyoto is a beautiful city and we look forward to returning!
Hi Keith-san & Josh-san, Thank you very much for your favorable comment. I am glad you enjoyed a tour in Kyoto and I was much encouraged by your words. I wish you could have another opportunity to visit the city in the near future. I wish you an even greater success in your business and a good luck for Josh-san in his study. Regards, Hiro
On our first day out of the three days we were with Hiro, we were immediately struck by his infectious joy and profound familiarity with Kyoto. His deep-rooted knowledge of the city enabled us to embark on a whirlwind tour, visiting a plethora of iconic sightseeing spots. From the serene temples nestled in lush gardens to the bustling markets filled with local flavors and crafts, Hiro expertly guided us through Kyoto's rich tapestry of culture and history. His insightful commentary illuminated each stop, adding layers of understanding and appreciation to our experience. Thanks to Hiro's meticulous planning and warm demeanor, our first day in Kyoto was not only packed with exploration but also filled with unforgettable moments that painted a vivid picture of this enchanting city.
Hi Jasmine-san, James-san & Sarai-san, Thank you very much for your heart-warming comment on my work. I am really glad you enjoyed visiting the three main attractions of Kyoto to enhance your knowledge of our history and culture. I also enjoyed talking with you about the wild animals in California like deer and wild boars. Many thanks for treating me to the delicious lunch, too. Good luck. Regards, Hiro
Hiro took us on an unforgettable journey to Nara, where we marveled at the deer and enjoyed a beautiful morning. For lunch, he guided us to a wonderful spot near Nara. Later, we explored Osaka and admired the stunning architecture of Osaka Castle. Hiro's expert guidance concluded with dropping us off at our dinner destination, completing a perfect day of sightseeing.
Hi Jasmine-san, James-san & Sarai-san, Many thanks for your favorable comment. I am glad you enjoyed visiting the Nara Park, spending a happy time mixing with the tame deer despite the chilly rain. You must have been amazed at seeing the Great Buddha at Todaiji temple, which has been treasured since the ancient days and the focus of our Buddhist culture. Wishing you all an eternal happiness. Regards, Hiro
Hiro guided us through Dotonbori Street, introducing us to its vibrant food and iconic spots, making it a memorable final night of our trip. His tour was not only informative but also incredibly enjoyable. One of my children particularly took a liking to him!
Hi Jasmine-san, James-san & Sarai-san, Thank you very much for your favorable comment and the compliment on my work. I am very glad I could help you get in touch with our society and culture. I was impressed with your five robust young men. It is the proof of your dedication in raising them. Wish you all a good luck and happiness. Regards, Hiro