The Tenjin Matsuri is said to be the greatest festival in Osaka with a history stretching over a thousand years. Taking place on the 24th and 25th of July, it has three parts: Yomiyasai, Rikutogyo, and Funatogyo.
Yomiyasai starts at Temmangu Shrine where over 200 people head to the Dojima River and the sacred halberd is set afloat. From there the Moyooshi Daio (Japanese drums) and Shishimai (lion dance) performances fill the streets and the shrine. During the festival you can also hear the Danjiri Bayashi, the theme music for the Tenjin Matsuri. It is extremely rhythmical and is referred to as the Serpent Dance.
