BEST 8 UNIQUE Things To Do In OSAKA & KYOTO during Spring & Summer 2024 | For First Timers! 2024

BEST 8 UNIQUE Things To Do In OSAKA & KYOTO during Spring & Summer 2024 | For First Timers! 2024

Hi, I’m Toshi from Japan and tourist guide for foreigners. In this video, I will show you 8 Unique things to do in Osaka & Kyoto during Spring & Summer season. Today, I’m delving into the vibrant heart of Japan – Osaka and Kyoto, the gems of the Kansai region.

Osaka, the second-largest city in Japan, boasts a lively harbor along Osaka Bay, serving as a centuries-old gateway for international trade. On the other hand, Kyoto, with its historic temples, stands as the country’s oldest city, captivating foreign visitors with its rich cultural tapestry.

In this video, we’re unveiling 8 must-see events across Osaka and Kyoto, focusing on the exciting happenings this spring and summer of 2024. I’ve delved into the details, so you’ll have dates and locations at your fingertips.

By watching this video, you’ll not only discover the must-visit tourist attractions but also uncover fascinating events, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to your journey in Japan. And finally, I’d like to share with you very useful information about traveling to Osaka. So, make sure to stay with us until the end.

So, let’s get started. No1 is Osaka Castle Light-Up. Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s Three Great Castles, stands proudly as a symbol of Osaka. It’s not just a landmark for the locals but also a favorite among international visitors. During my visit, the line was over an hour long, emphasizing its immense popularity.

With its colossal stone walls and iconic multi-tiered tower, Osaka Castle is a masterpiece of design. And guess what? For a limited time, they’ve brought the castle to life with a stunning illumination event. The Osaka Castle Illumination, running until February 25th, transforms the night sky into a canvas of history.

Set against the backdrop of the castle tower, over 3.5 million lights depict Osaka’s journey from the Warring States period to the modern era. Imagine strolling along the illuminated water’s edge, with the majestic Osaka Castle towering above. It’s truly a mesmerizing experience that captures the essence of Osaka’s rich history.

Don’t miss out on this captivating event during your Osaka adventure. No2 is The Ritual of the Blue Dragon. With a staggering 5 million annual visitors, Kiyomizu-dera stands as a proud cultural heritage spanning over 1,200 years and holds the prestigious title of a UNESCO World Heritage site.

This iconic temple in Kyoto captivates tourists from around the globe. Experience the unique ‘The Ritual of the Blue Dragon’ event held three times a year at Kiyomizu-dera, dedicated to the guardian deity, the Azure Dragon. In 2024, mark your calendars for March 15th, April 3rd, and September 15th.

During ‘The Ritual of the Blue Dragon,’ the 18-meter-long Azure Dragon descends the stone steps of Kiyomizu-dera, symbolizing protection for the community and warding off disasters. The majestic procession is guarded by four Heavenly Kings, creating a mesmerizing spectacle rarely seen at the temple.

Don’t miss this special opportunity to witness the ‘The Ritual of the Blue Dragon’ – a distinctive experience beyond the usual charm of Kiyomizu-dera. No3 is Cherry Blossom.

Cherry Blossom Viewing called ‘Hanami,’ is a beloved spring tradition in Japan where people gather to enjoy the beauty of cherry blossoms, indulge in delicious food, and savor drinks. It has become a cultural spectacle that captivates not only locals but also draws attention from international tourists visiting Japan.

Some tourists come to Japan for the purpose of cherry blossom viewing. As of January 2024, Osaka anticipates cherry blossoms blooming around March 25th, reaching full bloom by April 1st. For your Hanami experience in Osaka, key spots include Osaka Castle Park and Expo Commemoration Park.

Osaka Castle Park offers a spacious setting where families and friends gather with picnic blankets, indulging in food and drinks while enjoying the stunning match between Osaka Castle and cherry blossoms.

Meanwhile, Expo Commemoration Park, home to the iconic ‘Tower of the Sun’ from the 1970 Osaka Expo, transforms into a picturesque scene with cherry blossoms surrounding the tower in a delightful hue. So, mark your calendars for a magical Cherry Blossom Viewing experience in Osaka. No4 is Setsubun Festival.

Setsubun, a cherished Japanese event, takes place on February 3rd, symbolizing the wish for everyone’s health and happiness. During this cherished tradition known as bean-throwing, people shout ‘Oni wa soto, fuku wa uchi’ (‘Out with demons, in with good fortune’) while tossing roasted soybeans to drive away evil spirits.”

“As the changing seasons are believed to attract negative energy symbolized by ‘Oni’ (demons), celebrities gather at the iconic Tenryu-ji Temple in Kyoto’s Arashiyama, a symbol of renowned Kyoto. Immerse yourself in the lively spectacle of bean-throwing, witnessing the blend of tradition and celebrity in the captivating scenery of Arashiyama, Kyoto.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to experience Setsubun while exploring the charms of Arashiyama in Kyoto. No5 is Special Admission of Ginkakuji Temple. Ginkaku-ji, designated as a World Heritage Site, was completed in 1482 and stands as an integral part of Kyoto’s cultural tapestry alongside the famous Golden Pavilion.

The name ‘Silver Pavilion’ is a mystery, with various theories about its origin, ranging from the death of the king during construction to the initial absence of silver leaf plans. Regardless of the true story, Ginkaku-ji remains a must-visit spot.

Exciting news! From March 20th to May 6th, 2024, Ginkaku-ji will host a special viewing event, offering access to areas not usually open to the public, including the Main Hall, Togudo, and Rousei-tei. This is a unique opportunity as, typically, visitors can only explore the beautiful garden.

Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in the tranquility of Ginkaku-ji during this exclusive event. No6 is Special Admission of Kiyomizudera Temple. As explained in the previous chapter, Kiyomizu-dera is a very popular tourist destination that attracts a staggering 5 million visitors a year.

We know it can get too crowded, making it challenging for you to enjoy a peaceful visit. But fear not! I have exciting news for those seeking a serene experience.

Mark your calendars for March 23rd to March 31st and August 14th to 16th, 2024, as Kiyomizu-dera will host special night viewings during these periods. Witness the magic as the Main Hall, famous for its ‘Stage of Kiyomizu,’ and the surrounding mountain maples are beautifully illuminated.

Particularly enchanting is the cherry blossom season in March when the entire temple grounds are adorned with illuminated cherry blossoms, creating a mesmerizing and fantastical atmosphere. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Kiyomizu-dera. No7 is Osaka Danjiri Festival.

Celebrating over 300 years of history, this festival, held on September 14th and 15th in 2024, is a spectacular display of unity and energy. Originating in the Edo period, the festival features dozens of elaborately decorated floats, called ‘danjiri,’ parading through the streets of Kishiwada city.

What makes this event truly unique is the fierce procession of these massive floats, weighing over 4 tons, maneuvered by 400 to 1000 men with two thick ropes. The heart-pounding sight of these ‘danjiri’ racing through the town symbolizes the spirit and vitality of the community, wishing for a bountiful harvest.

The participants are usually men, but sometimes women also play an important role, which is really cool. It’s a breathtaking spectacle as the floats move, showcasing not only physical strength but also teamwork and tradition. No8 is Yodo River Fireworks Festival.

Nestled along the beautiful Yodogawa River, this festival stands out as Japan’s largest and oldest fireworks extravaganza. Get ready for an unforgettable experience on August 5th, as over 20,000 fireworks burst into the summer night sky, painting it with vibrant colors.

Originating in 1989 as a grassroots, volunteer-led event, the Yodogawa Fireworks Festival has evolved into Osaka’s summer tradition, boasting unmatched scale and popularity. Among its highlights is the renowned ‘Underwater Fireworks.’ This unique spectacle features fireworks launching in a semi-circle formation above the river, creating a breathtaking display.

The dynamic visuals of fireworks on the water’s surface and the colossal bursts that fill the entire sky are truly awe-inspiring. Don’t miss the chance to experience the Yodogawa Fireworks Festival, where the sheer power and grandeur of the display promise an unforgettable summer night. Special Info is Osaka Expo 2025.

Before we wrap up, I’ve got an exclusive scoop for you – the Osaka Expo 2025! Get ready for an extraordinary journey from April 13th to October 13th next year, as Osaka hosts the World Expo.

With participation from 150 countries, 25 international organizations, as well as companies, NGOs, NPOs, and grassroots movements, this global event will showcase initiatives towards a ‘Radiant Future Society.'”

Immerse yourself in the Water World’s aquatic shows, be dazzled by projection mapping on pathways and facilities, and groove to music and entertainment on stages of all sizes throughout the venue. Experience a diverse array of exhibitions, from traditional arts to pop culture.

Visitors during this period are in for a treat, as the Expo not only aims for SDG achievements but also paints a picture of the future beyond. Make your trip to Japan even more unforgettable with this grand celebration of human achievement and creativity!

How was 8 Unique things to do in Osaka & Kyoto during Spring & Summer season? Please share your thoughts in the comment section. Don’t forget to subscribe to my channel and like button. See you in my next video, bye!

In this video, I’m delving into the vibrant heart of Japan – Osaka and Kyoto, the gems of the Kansai region. Osaka, the second-largest city in Japan, boasts a lively harbor along Osaka Bay, serving as a centuries-old gateway for international trade. On the other hand, Kyoto, with its historic temples, stands as the country’s oldest city, captivating foreign visitors with its rich cultural tapestry.
I’m unveiling 8 must-see events across Osaka and Kyoto, focusing on the exciting happenings this spring and summer of 2024. I’ve delved into the details, so you’ll have dates and locations at your fingertips.
By watching this video, you’ll not only discover the must-visit tourist attractions but also uncover fascinating events, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to your journey in Japan. And finally, I’d like to share with you very useful information about traveling to Osaka. So, make sure to stay with us until the end.
#travelguide #japan #Tokyo #tokyo2024 #Osaka2024 #Kyoto2024 #japantraveltips #thingstodo #japanevents #Tourismevets #thingstoknow #UniqueCulture

⭐️CHAPTERS⭐️
0:00 Opening
1:16 1.Osaka Castle Light-Up
2:25 2.The Ritual of the Blue Dragon
3:31 3.Cherry Blossom
4:45 4.Setsubun Festival
5:39 5.Special Admission of Ginkakuji Temple
6:40 6.Special Admission of Kiyomizudera Temple
7:44 7.Osaka Danjiri Festival
8:45 8.Yodo River Fireworks Festival
9:53 #.Bonus Info

⭐️Information⭐️
Japan Cherry Blossom 2024 Forecast: When & Where to See Sakura in Japan (+Bonus Tour Info)
https://livejapan.com/en/article-a0001033/
Kiyomizudera Temple SPECIAL NIGHT VIEWING
https://www.kiyomizudera.or.jp/en/visit/special_night_viewing/
Ginkakuji Temple

ABOUT

Yodo River Fireworks Festival
https://japancheapo.com/events/naniwa-yodogawa-fireworks-festival/

⭐️Related Videos⭐️
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