Feature: MIDOSUJI RUNWAY 2024 & FESTIVAL OF THE LIGHTS IN OSAKA 2024 OPENING CEREMONY

The annual autumn spectacles “Midosuji Runway” and “Festival of the lights in Osaka” lit up the city of Osaka again this year. The main street, Midosuji, was transformed for one day into an extraordinary space filled with entertainment for “Midosuji Runway 2024,” while “Festival of the lights in Osaka 2024” illuminated the night in a fantastical display. Held on November 3, this festive event attracted a large crowd, with Japan’s top artists showcasing a series of captivating performances.

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Midosuji Runway 2024

avantgardey Kicks Off the Show

Opening the Midosuji Runway 2024 was avantgardey, a global dance unit that gained international acclaim on the American audition show “America’s Got Talent.” Their dynamic performance electrified Midosuji, instantly captivating the audience. Joined by 300 high school students, they performed hits like “Idol,” creating an exuberant start that energized the entire venue.

15 Minutes of “MATSUKENSAMBA” to Showcase Japanese Culture

One of the event’s key themes was “promoting Japanese culture,” and nothing embodied this better than Ken Matsudaira’s performance of “MATSUKENSAMBAII" in “MATSURI” segment. Adorned in a magnificent costume and riding on a float, he paraded the 1.1 km (Approx. 0.7mile) runway over 15 minutes in a grand spectacle that captivated the crowd. Accompanied by traditional Japanese festivals such as the Nebuta and Awa Odori, this vibrant performance beautifully portrayed Japanese culture, leaving the audience in awe.

JO1 Delivers an Impressive Performance for Enthusiastic Fans

As JO1 appeared from the southern end of the runway, walking with 70 models, their fans lining the route erupted in excitement. Upon reaching the main stage, JO1 performed two hit songs, including “WOW WAR TONIGHT～時には起こせよムーヴメント（JO1 ver.）,” enthralling the crowd. Their powerful stage presence was one of the day’s highlights for many attendees.

“Jamboree Mickey!” Brings Disney Magic to Midosuji

The special parade “Jamboree Mickey!” from Tokyo Disney Resort also made an appearance, as Mickey and friends paraded down Midosuji by bus. Smiles radiated from children and families along the roadside. With kids’ dancers joining in, the street was momentarily transformed into a Disney’s magical world.

Kobukuro’s Fantastic Finale

Rounding off the Midosuji Runway was Osaka-born music duo Kobukuro. They performed their iconic songs “Wadachi” and “Sakura” before presenting “Kono Hoshi no Tsuduki wo (この地球(ほし)の続きを),” the theme song for the Osaka-Kansai Expo. Osaka’s governor and mayor joined them in performing the “Kono Hoshi Dance,” making the event finale even more dazzling and memorable.

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Festival of the lights in Osaka 2024

Surprise Appearance by Genta Matsuda of Travis Japan

At the Festival of the lights in Osaka 2024 opening ceremony held that day, Genta Matsuda of Travis Japan made a surprise appearance as a special guest. Known for voicing Taka/Scar in “Mufasa: The Lion King,” he received a warm reception from the crowd. During the ceremony, Genta shared behind-the-scenes stories from “Mufasa: The Lion King” auditions, delighting attendees with his unexpected appearance.

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Conclusion

The “Midosuji Runway 2024” and “Festival of the lights in Osaka 2024” combined Japan’s top entertainers, traditional cultural elements from across the country, and enchanting nightscapes, creating a unique event that symbolizes Osaka. Attendees were mesmerized by this extraordinary world throughout the day, likely leaving with unforgettable memories that will draw them back again next year.

Photo Credit :[Ayaka Ozaki]

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