Dotonbori

Used in Japan since the 8th century, paper lanterns have traditionally been employed for occasions such an honouring ancestors or as decorations for festivals. The ornaments represent good luck and happiness, and from July 1 to August 31 will be decorating the riverbanks and waterfront promenade of Osaka’s premier entertainment district. Dotonbori will be lit up with 2,025 paper lanterns for the annual Dotonbori River Lantern Festival, the start of which marks the beginning of summer in Minami. Found along the 800-metre stretch from Fukari Bridge to Nipponbashi, the lanterns will be lit from 7pm to 2am and can be enjoyed during a walk along the riverfront. The highlight of the festival comes on Sunday July 13 between 6.30 and 9pm, when a spectacular festival organised by the Namba Yasaka Shrine will take place on the Dotonbori River. In addition to a boat procession with more than 20 vessels, there will be bonfires, drums and other eye-catching sights. The procession is best enjoyed from the waterfront promenade or Ebisu Bridge.