Latest Events in Osaka(November Updated)

The 2026 Osaka Christmas Market will be held from November 20th to December 25th, 2026 at Tennoji Park. Following its successful debut in 2023, which attracted over 200,000 visitors, this year's market will feature approximately 24 stalls, including 7 new ones. Visitors can enjoy mulled wine served in original mugs, German beer, sausages, pretzels, and festive gifts such as snowballs and wreaths.

The critically acclaimed 360° immersive sound and light show "ENLIGHTENMENT," a sensation in Europe, is making its Japanese debut. The performance takes place at the Osaka Municipal Museum of Art, a registered tangible cultural heritage site in the heart of Osaka and the site of last year's World Expo, a place that has witnessed joy from around the world. Relax and immerse yourself in this 30-minute, six-part spectacular sound and light show, set to the soothing melodies of Vivaldi's "The Four Seasons." After experiencing the vibrant cycle of spring, summer, autumn, and winter, the fifth act, "Ignorance," depicts the struggle within the endless cycle of life and death. Upon reaching the final act, "Enlightenment," you will be freed from all constraints, bathed in a radiant light that evokes absolute peace and connection with your true self. The elegance of a historical temple intertwines with cutting-edge digital art to create a wondrous symphony. Immerse yourself in luxurious sound and light, and enjoy a dreamlike experience. Performance times: ① 17:45～18:15, ② 18:30～19:00, ③ 19:15～19:45, ④ 20:00～20:30, ⑤ 20:45～21:15

The Shinno Festival, held annually from November 22nd to 23rd, is the last festival held in Osaka, hence its nickname "The Last Festival." Just a 20-minute walk from Osaka's city center and a 5-minute train ride from Osaka Station, the Shinno Festival is a convenient stop when visiting the city. The Shinno Festival is hosted by Sukunahiko-no-Mikoto Shrine, which enshrines Shennong, the Chinese god of medicine, and Sukunahiko-no-Mikoto, the Japanese god of medicine. Shinnong also means "Emperor Shennong," commemorating Emperor Shennong's teachings in agriculture and medicine. One of the shrine's symbols is the tiger amulet, "Tiger of Tiger." This tiger-shaped paper amulet is distributed as a souvenir and is said to prevent illness. This tradition began in the early 19th century when a cholera outbreak occurred in Osaka, and those who possessed the amulets were cured. While attending the festival, it's also worthwhile to visit the Medical Museum next to Sukunahiko-no-Mikoto Shrine. This museum is small, but its exhibits date back 300 years. Unfortunately, the explanations are only in Japanese, but it should be interesting for those particularly interested in the history of medicine in Osaka. You can see the materials used for dispensing and storing medicines.