🎎 Aoi Matsuri

Every year on May 15th, the regular festival held at Kyoto's "Shimogamo Shrine (Kamo Mioya Shrine)" and "Kamigamo Shrine (Kamo Wakeikazuchi Shrine)" is known as one of the "Three Great Festivals of Kyoto," alongside the Gion Matsuri and Jidai Matsuri, marking the essence of spring in Kyoto. Originating 1500 years ago as a ritual to pray for a bountiful harvest, it has appeared in classic works such as "The Pillow Book" and "The Tale of Genji," making it a festival with a long history. The official name is "Kamo Matsuri," and during the Heian period, when nobles referred to festivals, they meant "Kamo Matsuri." A highlight of the festival is the "Routou no Gi," where people dressed in Heian period attire parade along an 8-kilometer route. Starting from the Kyoto Imperial Palace, the procession moves towards Marutamachi and then heads to Shimogamo Shrine, finally proceeding along Kitayama Street to Kamigamo Shrine. The parade features the "Saio-dai," who rides in a ceremonial palanquin called "Koshi," accompanied by about 500 participants, 36 horses, 4 cows, and 2 ox carts, forming a procession that stretches for 1 kilometer, reminiscent of a Heian-era painting brought to life in modern times, making it a sight not to be missed. Additionally, various activities held in early May leading up to the Aoi Matsuri are also noteworthy.

One of the three major festivals in Kyoto. A long-standing tradition that originated about 1500 years ago. The modern revival of the Heian period scroll-like "Procession of the Streets" is a must-see. If you want to enjoy it leisurely, consider choosing a paid seating area.