[category]
[title]
First held in 2010, the annual Osaka Milky Way Legend returns on July 7 to celebrate Tanabata at the Hachikenyahama Pier by Keihan City Mall. On this evening, tens of thousands of LED-lit spheres known as Inori Stars (or Prayer Stars) will be released onto the Okawa River. Last year saw a breathtaking launch of 40,000 Stars at nightfall, turning the dark river into a sparkling sight reminiscent of the awe-inspiring Milky Way galaxy.
The release of the Stars takes place over two sessions: first at 7.10pm, and again at 8pm. Each admission ticket includes one Star, as well as a slip of paper to write your wish on. But make sure you get there early to meet Orihime-chan and Hikoboshi-kun, the respective mascots of Katano City and Hirakata City, two locales in Osaka long associated with the Tanabata legend. There will also be a prayer ritual conducted by Osaka Tenmangu Shrine and Ikukunitama Shrine.
Advance tickets can now be purchased online for ¥2,000 for adults; otherwise, it's ¥2,500 on the day. There's also a pair ticket option: ¥3,600 advance, or ¥4,500 on the day.