Gion Matsuri is a traditional Japanese summer festival held every July in Kyoto. With a history of more than 1,000 years, this world-famous festival is one of the “Three Great Festivals of Japan” and attracts many tourists from home and abroad.
In this article, we will introduce the attractions of the Gion Festival, highlights, recommended times to visit, and tips on how to enjoy the festival more!
Table of Contents
What is the Gion Festival?
Gion Matsuri is a festival held mainly at Yasaka Shrine in Kyoto, where various events take place over the month of July from July 1 to 31. The climax of the festival is the spectacular Yamaboko Junko (float procession) held on July 17 (Mae-matsuri) and July 24 (Goto-matsuri).
History of the Gion Festival
The Gion Festival has an ancient history dating back to the Heian period (794-1185) and originally began as a prayer to prevent the spread of an epidemic. As time went by, the festival evolved into the gorgeous procession of Yamaboko floats and became a summer tradition in Kyoto.
Highlights
Yamaboko Junko
The Yamaboko procession is the highlight of the Gion Festival! About 20 elaborately decorated mountains and 10 floats parade through the streets of Kyoto. Each of these floats has its own unique history and meaning, and is a fascinating sight to behold.
Yoiyama (evening festival)
Yoiyama is held on the evenings of July 16 and July 23, the night before the Yamaboko Junko procession. The whole town becomes a pedestrian paradise, and the floats are decorated and lined with stalls.
Mikoshi Procession
The procession of the portable shrine of Yasaka Shrine through the streets is one of the highlights of the Gion Festival. The sight of the mikoshi moving through the streets in a sacred atmosphere, accompanied by powerful shouts, is a sight to behold.
What are popular souvenirs?
Limited edition souvenirs and traditional Kyoto crafts are popular at the Gion Festival. In particular, fans with limited edition designs and Japanese sundries with motifs of the Yamahoko-junko procession are perfect souvenirs of the festival.
Access
Kyoto City is crowded with people during the Gion Festival. From Kyoto Station, you can take a city bus or subway to the Yasaka Shrine area.
Since there are traffic restrictions on the day of the Yamaboko Junko, public transportation is recommended.
Recommended time to visit
The Gion Festival is held in July, but the best time to visit is mid to late July if you wish to enjoy the Yamaboko Junko and Yoiyama flo ats. During this period, Kyoto is at its busiest and you can fully enjoy the festival atmosphere!
Tips for enjoying the Gion Festival more
Visit nearby museums and galleries
During the Gion Festival, many museums and galleries in Kyoto hold special exhibitions. This is a great opportunity to learn more about the history and culture of the festival!
Find a good place to eat
There are many delicious Japanese restaurants and sweet shops in Kyoto. In particular, long-established restaurants and cafes are scattered around the Gion area, making it a great place to take a break from the festival.
Conclusion
The Gion Festival is one of Japan’s representative summer festivals, with its spectacular parade of floats, traditional rituals, and Kyoto’s unique culinary culture.
We hope you will experience the full charm of the Gion Festival!
