Kikusui Boko (菊水鉾)
The highlight of Kyoto’s Gion Matsuri is the procession of floats on July 17. However, there are many fun events in association with the festival that occur throughout the month of July. One of the most exciting is Yoi-Yama,or the three days leading up to the main event.
Gion-matsuri (Gion festival) 祇園祭 京都
On July 14, 15, and 16, the streets of Kyoto come alive with celebration. The incredible floats are on display, there are musicians and food stalls, and people dress in traditional clothing. The center is around Muromachi and Shinmachi streets. The floats are lit with paper lanterns which look magical in the summer evening. So many people come to see the display that it can be hard to walk down the street, but the festive atmosphere is full of energy. It is especially crowded after 6 pm when locals get off work.
Byobu Matsuri in Akaoka, 2009
Another traditional event in the same area is the Byobu Matsuri, which literally translates as “the festival of the folding screens.” Residents of the area open the front rooms of their homes to visitors and display family treasures such as kimono, calligraphy, and folding screens. This is a rare chance to see inside a traditional Japanese home, and well worth navigating the crowds to enjoy.
Gion Matsuri parade – Hoko float turning
For more information: http://www.visitkansai.com/sightseeing/gion-matsuri/
