July 7 is the official day of tanabata festivals, when celebrations of a mythical tale of literal star-crossed lovers take place all over Japan. Orihime and Hikoboshi – the lovers – were separated by the Milky Way but are allowed to reunite on July 7th.

The Tenmabashi and Nakanoshima areas of Osaka are commemorating the event by creating a version of Amanogawa, the Milky Way, the astrological symbol of the lovers separation.  Lit up by 50,000  floating LED light balls, the Okawa river promises to be a breathtaking sight.
Visitors can also take part in the celebrations by writing wishes on strips of paper and releasing them with prayer stars into the river.

Address : 1 Tenmabashikyōmachi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 540-0032

Access : A short walk from Tenmabashi station at the Keihan line and the subway tanimachi-line

Admission : Free