Imagine yourself in Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan. The vibrant summer air buzzes with excitement as a thousand-year-old festival unfolds. Gion Matsuri, a dazzling spectacle of colours, traditions, and colossal floats, promises an unforgettable experience.
Origins of the Festival
Dating back to 869, Gion Matsuri began as a religious ceremony at Yasaka Shrine to appease the gods during a devastating epidemic. This rich tradition continues today with the selection of a local boy as a divine messenger. Interestingly, to preserve his purity, the child refrains from setting foot on the ground from the 13th of July until the grand parade through the town on the 17th of July.
When & Where
While the festivities span the entire month of July, the true magic unfolds during the impressive processions of floats (Yamaboko Junko). Mark your calendars for the 17th, where the first procession unfolds in all its glory; you can also witness a smaller, yet equally captivating, procession on the 24th. The vibrant parades make their way along a three-kilometre route including Oike Street where you will find some of the best hotels in Kyoto; these include properties like Park Hotel Kyoto which offers amazing views of the floats.
The Magnificent Floats
The word “Yamaboko” encompasses the two majestic types of floats that steal the show: the “Yama” and “Hoko”. Both types of floats are meticulously adorned, each representing unique themes. One of the most awe-inspiring aspects of Gion Matsuri is the sheer scale of the Hoko floats. Reaching heights of up to 25 metres and weighing a staggering 12 tons, these gigantic creations are pulled by enormous wheels, creating an awe-inspiring spectacle.
Other Highlights
The true magic of Gion Matsuri spills beyond the dazzling processions. Immerse yourself in the electrifying atmosphere during the three evenings preceding the main event. The Yama and Hoko floats are displayed within a short distance of Karasuma and Shijo streets, offering a chance for tourists to get up close to these stunning structures. As dusk settles, the area transforms into a vibrant hub and the streets pulsate with food stalls, cultural events, and the infectious spirit of the festival.