Osaka in November 2024: Highlights, Events & Festivals

In November, autumn deepens in Osaka, and temperatures begin to drop significantly. The average temperature is around 18°C (64.4°F). It's a charming season when maple and ginkgo trees in the city turn into vibrant shades of red and yellow.

Osaka is Japan's second-largest city after Tokyo. It's also the central city of the Kansai region in western Japan. As a result, it attracts many people and businesses. Moreover, it has a history of over 1000 years as a center of trade and commerce.

In such a vibrant city, numerous events take place in November. From traditional festivals to fireworks and Halloween events, there's a wide variety of activities to enjoy.

In this article, we'll introduce information about events happening in Osaka in November 2024. We've compiled details on traditional events, exciting leisure activities, including highlights, basic information, dates, and access for each. We hope this guide will be helpful for your Osaka trip in November 2024.

Table of Contents
1. Traditional Events in Osaka in November 2024
2. Special Experiences Unique to Osaka in November
3. Gourmet Events in Osaka in November 2024

Traditional Events in Osaka in November 2024

Shitennoji Wasso 2024

The Shitennoji Wasso is a festival centered on international exchange between Japan and East Asian countries.

Osaka has flourished as a trading port since ancient times. Due to frequent trade with various ethnic groups and countries across Asia, the Shitennoji Wasso was started in 1990 to allow Osaka's children to learn about these cultures and histories. It has been growing in popularity year by year.

The highlight is a parade recreating the exchange between ancient Japan and countries from the Korean Peninsula and the continent. People dress in ancient costumes and form processions, recreating the appearance of ancient delegations. Historical figures make appearances, and there are also vibrant dances by dance maidens.

The stage will feature traditional Korean music performances and K-pop events. This event is particularly recommended for those interested in the history of Japan and East Asia. It's a chance to experience a facet of Osaka as a historical international city.

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Date: November 3, 2024 (Sunday) 10:30 - 17:00　
Access: Right next to Tanimachi 4-chome Station on Osaka Metro Tanimachi Line, or 5 minutes walk from Morinomiya Station on JR Osaka Loop Line → Historic Naniwa-no-Miya Palace Remains
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.wasso.net/

Annual Festival "Shinnosan Festival"

The Shinnosan Festival has been held at Sukunahikona Shrine for nearly 200 years. Due to its historical significance, it has been designated as an intangible cultural property by the national government, recognized as an important traditional culture.

In the early 19th century, cholera was prevalent in Osaka. During this time, people offered special medicine to the gods and prayed for the epidemic to subside. This is said to be the origin of the Shinnosan Festival. Even now, it continues as an important festival to pray for good health and the absence of disease.

A notable feature is the "Shinnosan's Shintora," a bamboo grass charm that can be purchased at the festival. Shinnosan is the name of the god of medicine. The bamboo grass has a tiger doll attached to it, as tiger bones were once used in medicine. It is said that carrying this bamboo grass wards off illness and brings good health.

Food stalls and miscellaneous goods are sold in the town's shopping streets. If you're interested in traditional Osaka festivals or want to pray for good health, please participate in this festival.

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Date: November 22 and 23, two days from 10 AM to 8 PM
Access: 5 minutes walk from Exit 6 of Kitahama Station on Osaka Metro Sakaisuji Line
10 minutes walk from Exit 11 of Yodoyabashi Station on Osaka Metro Midosuji Line
8 minutes walk from Exit 27 of Kitahama Station on Keihan Main Line → Sukunahikona Shrine
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.sinnosan.jp/shinnousai/

Sumiyoshi Taisha Shichi-Go-San Festival

The Shichi-Go-San Festival is a celebration of children's growth at Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine. It's a popular event at the nationally famous Sumiyoshi Taisha, attracting many families.

Shichi-Go-San is a traditional Japanese event celebrating children's growth, mainly when they turn 3, 5, and 7 years old. At Sumiyoshi Taisha, traditional celebratory prayers and dances by Shinto priests are grandly performed.

This event allows you to witness Japanese historical customs up close. Children wear special kimono for Shichi-Go-San and visit the shrine with their families. At Sumiyoshi Taisha, you can encounter energetic families and children trying to enjoy their special day. You'll be able to directly experience a Japanese tradition that continues undiminished in modern times.

If you're interested in traditional Japanese culture, please visit Sumiyoshi Taisha for Shichi-Go-San. Let's celebrate the growth of these adorable children together.

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Date: November 15, 2025, or any day in November (mainly weekends) 9:30 - 17:00
Access:
- Nankai Railway: 3 minutes walk east from Sumiyoshi Taisha Station on Nankai Main Line, or 5 minutes walk west from Sumiyoshi-Higashi Station on Nankai Koya Line
- Hankai Tramway: Right in front of Sumiyoshi-Torii-mae Station on Hankai Line
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.sumiyoshitaisha.net/worship/753.html

Halloween Event 2024 (Universal Studios Japan)

Universal Studios Japan continues its Halloween event from October until around November 4th as part of the Osaka Event November 2024 lineup.

Universal Studios Japan is a large-scale theme park that opened in Osaka in 2001 and is one of the largest in Japan. Attractions and events collaborating with Japanese anime and game characters are extremely popular. The Halloween event has also been a big hit every year for over 15 years.

For the 2024 USJ Halloween event, Pokémon and music take center stage. You can enjoy music and dance with Pikachu and Gengar dressed as DJs.

The highlight this year is the debut of new Pokémon. This year, Pumpkaboo and Litwick will appear in the park for the first time. You can also meet popular Pokémon like Mimikyu, Banette, and Misdreavus. If you encounter Pokémon in the park, you can take commemorative photos with them.

Additionally, the popular horror tour event is held during the Halloween period every year. It's a must-visit spot that's sure to be enjoyable for Pokémon-loving families with children as well as groups of friends.

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Date: September 5, 2024 (Thursday) - November 4, 2024 (Monday)
Access: Get off at Universal City Station from JR Nishikujo Station on the Osaka Loop Line, then it's right there
Admission: USJ entry pass Adults ¥8,546 - ¥9,900 (varies depending on the day and season)
Pokémon Jumpin' Halloween Party Special Viewing Area Ticket
Common [Adults/Children/Seniors] ¥1,727 (¥1,900 inc. tax) - ¥1,909 (¥2,100 inc. tax)
Website: https://www.usj.co.jp/web/ja/jp/events/halloween-2024/hahaha-halloween-party-2024

Special Experiences Unique to Osaka in November

Osaka Art Fireworks 2024

Osaka Art Fireworks 2024 is a water fireworks event held at Rinku Park. You can enjoy a dazzling show of fireworks and music.

The beach at Rinku Park, the venue, is also known for its beautiful sunsets. From the beach, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Osaka's sea, which has prospered through maritime trade. This is another attractive point of Rinku Park.

You can enjoy the fireworks in the best environment with nothing to obstruct your view. It will be an experience where you can feel the charm of Osaka's cityscape and nature while enjoying the fireworks.

Furthermore, the spectacular show and performances that take advantage of being on the water are also highlights. Water is sprayed from floating platforms on the sea, and various performances are held. You can enjoy a 50-minute art-like show that combines music, water, and fireworks.

This is highly recommended for those who want to see a spectacular event on an Osaka night trip. As it's a paid fireworks event, please check the reservation information in advance.

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Date: November 2, 2024 (Saturday) / Doors open at 15:00 / Fireworks scheduled to start at 18:00 *Will be held in light rain, canceled in case of severe weather
Access: About 10 minutes walk from JR/Nankai "Rinku Town Station" → Rinku Park Special Venue
Admission:
[Marble Beachside] Gorogoro Chair Seat (Assigned) | ¥7,000
[Marble Beachside] Stair Box Seat for 5 (Assigned) | ¥35,000
[Sold Out] [Marble Beachside] Photographer Ticket | ¥10,000
[Outlet Side] Promenade Chair Seat (Assigned) | ¥7,000
[Outlet Side] Table Seat for 4 (Assigned) | ¥50,000
Website: https://www.osakafireworks.com/

Vintage Market - Expo Flea Market -

The Vintage Market is a large-scale vintage goods flea market held at Expo Park. Vintage shops and antique shops from all over the country gather here.

The venue is the popular Expo '70 Commemorative Park in Osaka. There are over 100 stores on the vast grounds. Customers gather from all over the Kansai region, which is the western part of Japan. It's a great opportunity to experience a large-scale flea market unique to the big city of Osaka.

The highlight is antiques from various countries around the world. Antiques from America, Europe, various Asian countries, and Japan all come together. At the market, mainly old tools, furniture, tableware, accessories, and vintage clothes are sold. You might find a stylish item or a rare piece that becomes a memento of your trip to Japan.

Food and sweets are also sold at the event. We recommend enjoying lunch in the nature of Expo Park. If you like antiques, vintage items, or shopping, please visit this Osaka Event November 2024.

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Date: November 8 (Friday) - 10 (Sunday), 2024, 9:00 - 16:30
Access: Osaka Monorail "Bampaku-kinen-koen Station" or "Koen Higashiguchi Station"
[JR Line] From Ibaraki Station [Hankyu Kyoto Line] From Ibaraki-shi Station [Subway Midosuji Line (Kita-Osaka Kyuko Line)] From Senri-Chuo Station
Take a bus from each station → Expo '70 Commemorative Park
Admission: Same-day ticket 1,000 yen / Advance ticket 700 yen
Additional Expo '70 Commemorative Park entrance fee (Adults 260 yen, Elementary and Junior High School students 80 yen)
Website: https://vintagemarket.jp

The 12th International Red-White Singing Festival "SING WITH US!!"

The 12th International Red-White Singing Festival is a fun event where you can experience international exchange through singing. Japanese participants sing in foreign languages, while foreign participants sing in Japanese.

International students from various countries studying in Japan are the main participants. The students' home countries are diverse, including Asian countries like Indonesia, as well as America, Brazil, and European countries. There's also a collaboration project with the Osaka Expo. It's held every year in a lively Osaka-like atmosphere, and you can experience Osaka's international city aspect through this event.

The warm atmosphere created by the student-led organization is also a highlight. As the event aims for international exchange, spectators can enjoy the stage like friends. There are also plans where staff, volunteers, and participants sing together. Pay attention to the high-level J-POP songs sung by people from various countries.

This event is recommended for those who want to enjoy a warm atmosphere and those interested in J-POP songs. When visiting Osaka in November 2024, why not participate in the International Red-White Singing Festival event?

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Date: November 17, 2024 (Sunday) 13:30-16:30
Access: 7 minutes walk from Minoo Station exit on the Hankyu Railway → Minoh City Maple Hall
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.irws.org/

Osaka Festival of Lights

The "Osaka Festival of Lights" is a series of events using light, including illuminations, held in Osaka City from November.

From November to December, illuminations and light objects will decorate popular spots in Osaka such as Midosuji and Nakanoshima. The theme of the event is to express the history of Osaka and Japan through light. You can enjoy a special experience of appreciating illuminations while feeling the history of Osaka city.

The main highlight of the event is the illumination on Midosuji, Osaka's symbolic street. About 4 kilometers of ginkgo trees are beautifully decorated with lights. Special lighting is also carried out on major buildings around Midosuji.

The event continues until Christmas in December and January. In December, you can also enjoy light art using projection mapping at places like Osaka City Central Public Hall in the Nakanoshima area. If you're coming to Osaka after November, be sure to enjoy the "Festival of Lights" event on your night out.

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(For the entire event)
Date: From Sunday, November 3, 2024 (National Holiday) to Friday, January 31, 2025 (90 days)
(For Midosuji Illumination)
Date: Around November 3 (Friday, Holiday) - December 31 (Sunday), 2024, 17:00 - 23:00
Access: Get off at JR "Osaka Station", or any station between "Umeda Station" and "Namba Station" on the Subway Midosuji Line, or get off at "Oebashi Station" or "Yodoyabashi Station" on the Keihan Line, or get off at "Namba Station" on the Nankai Line, or get off at "Osaka-Namba Station" on the Kintetsu Line → Midosuji (from Hanshin-mae Intersection to Namba-Nishiguchi Intersection)
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.city.osaka.lg.jp/keizaisenryaku/page/0000625317.html
(2023 Official Website) https://www.hikari-kyoen.com/midosuji/

Gourmet Events in Osaka in November 2024

Ibaraki Bar 2024

Ibaraki Bar 2024 is a great gourmet event held in Ibaraki City, Osaka. By purchasing a special ticket, you can enjoy food hopping at restaurants around JR Ibaraki Station at discounted prices.

Participants purchase an event passport for 800 yen (600 yen for advance tickets). For 10 days from November 15 to 24, presenting this ticket at participating stores allows you to order special bar menu items. The bar menu has three types: 300 yen, 600 yen, and 900 yen (1 food item + 1 drink item). You can enjoy gourmet food at very reasonable prices.

A recommended point is the abundance of participating stores. Not only restaurants but also izakayas, cafes, bars, and takeout food shops are included. It's an excellent opportunity to try various types of Osaka cuisine.

This is recommended for those who want to experience Osaka's food culture at a reasonable price and for food lovers. For your Osaka trip in November 2024, be sure to purchase a passport and take advantage of the Ibaraki Bar event.

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Dates:November 15-24, 2024
Access: A short walk from JR Ibaraki Station or Hankyu Ibaraki Station → Restaurants around JR Ibaraki Station, Hankyu Ibaraki Station, and Ibaraki City Hall.
Admission Fee Passport: ¥800 (¥600 in advance)
Website: https://barfestaibaraki.com/

Agora BBQ Terrace 2024

Agora BBQ Terrace 2024 is an outdoor barbecue event at the Hotel Agora Regency Sakai, located at Sakai Station in Osaka. Enjoy a luxurious 150-minute BBQ experience on the hotel's famous open terrace.

You can savor high-quality Japanese beef loin and pork spare ribs, with salads available buffet-style. The menu changes seasonally, and in November, you can enjoy the flavors of autumn.

Look out for special offers with advance reservations. By becoming a free member of the Agora Hotel Group, you can take advantage of an early bird plan that includes one free drink. This plan applies to both the Standard Plan and the Wagyu Plate Plan, which features premium Japanese beef BBQ.

Agora Regency Sakai is directly connected to Sakai Station on the Nankai Main Line, offering excellent access. The hotel rooms offer stunning views of Osaka Bay and the nearby World Heritage-listed ancient tombs. With its excellent reputation, this hotel is also highly recommended for overnight stays. Take advantage of this event to enjoy a luxurious hotel BBQ experience at a great value.

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Dates:March 20, 2024 (Wednesday, National Holiday) to November 30, 2024 (Saturday)
  - Weekdays: 18:00-21:00 (150-minute time limit)
  - Weekends & National Holidays: 17:00-20:00 (150-minute time limit)
Access:Directly connected to Sakai Station on the Nankai Main Line
Admission Fee:
  - Standard BBQ Plan: ¥7,000 per person / ¥6,500 for Bespoke members
  - Wagyu Plate BBQ Plan: ¥8,500 per person / ¥8,000 for Bespoke members
Website: https://www.agoraregency-sakai.com/event/bbq_terrace/