Kishiwada Danjiri Festival 2025

Event date:
September 7, 2025 at 5:41 am
Event end:
October 12, 2025 at 5:41 am

An Iconic Festival Rooted in 300+ Years of Tradition

Held in the historic castle town of Kishiwada, Osaka, the Danjiri Festival is one of Japan’s most exhilarating and visually striking traditional events. Originating in the mid-Edo period, it was first organized by the lord of Kishiwada Castle as a religious ceremony to pray for a bountiful harvest. Today, it has evolved into a spectacular urban celebration of community spirit, craftsmanship, and cultural pride — drawing thousands of spectators every year.

What to Expect

Imagine towering, intricately-carved wooden floats known as danjiri, weighing nearly 4 tons, being pulled at full speed through narrow city streets by teams of up to 100 people. The thunderous drumming, high-pitched flutes, and unified chanting set the rhythm for the floats racing around corners in a dramatic show of precision, coordination, and raw energy.

The highlight is the daring performance by the daikugata — a local carpenter perched on top of the danjiri, dancing wildly in a dangerous act of balance and bravery, the most famous move being the “Hikokinori” (Airplane Dance).

Where It Happens

The festival centers around the Haruki area and the Old Castle Town of Kishiwada. The action is especially thrilling near Kispa La Park, where you’ll find a lively crowd, food stalls, souvenir stands, and a large screen broadcasting the festivities. For a quieter yet equally scenic view, explore the backstreets opposite Kispa or head to the rooftop parking deck for a panoramic perspective.

Getting There:
From Kansai International Airport, take the Nankai Main Line directly to Haruki Station or Kishiwada Station — both are ideal jumping-off points to experience the parade and festival buzz.

2025 Festival Parade Schedule

September Festival

Test Tow:
- Sunday, September 7th, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
- Friday, September 12th, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Evening Shrine Parade:
- Saturday, September 13th, 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Main Shrine Parade:
- Sunday, September 14th, 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM

October Festival

Test Tow:
- Sunday, October 5th, 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Evening Shrine Parade:
- Saturday, October 11th, 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Main Shrine Parade:
- Sunday, October 12th, 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Note: Schedules may vary slightly depending on the area and local neighborhood rules.

Tips for Visitors

Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot — the best ones fill quickly
Wear comfortable shoes for walking and standing
Bring water, especially during daytime events, as it can be quite warm and crowded
For a less congested view, follow the danjiri route into side streets behind Kispa La Park

Can’t Visit in September or October?

No worries — visit the Kishiwada Danjiri Museum, where you can:

See full-scale danjiri floats up close
Watch exciting historical footage of past festivals
Learn about danjiri craftsmanship and Kishiwada’s history

Also, don’t miss Kishiwada Castle, a beautifully preserved Edo-era structure just a couple of stops from Haruki Station. The traditional castle-town ambiance offers a calm, cultural complement to the festival’s excitement.

Inquiries

Kishiwada Old City Area
Kishiwada Tonban Headquarters (Danjiri Theater)
Tel: 072-436-0358

Haruki Area
Haruki Tonban Headquarters
Tel: 070-1046-1740

A Festival Like No Other

Whether you’re a fan of traditional Japanese festivals, historical towns, or just seeking an unforgettable cultural experience, the Kishiwada Danjiri Festival is a must-see. Witness firsthand the passion, heritage, and energy of a community that pulls — quite literally — together to keep its legacy alive.

Mark your calendar for September 13–14 and October 11–12, 2025. The heartbeat of Kishiwada awaits you.