🎎 Gion Matsuri

The world-renowned "Gion Matsuri" is one of the "Three Great Festivals of Japan." This festival, which attracts numerous visitors from both domestic and international locations, originated in 869 AD (the 11th year of the Jōgan era) when a large epidemic broke out in Kyoto and across Japan. People prayed to Yasaka Shrine for the dispelling of diseases and the alleviation of disasters. Today, it is a ritual event held at Yasaka Shrine, featuring various Shinto ceremonies and activities that take place over a month starting from July 1. The highlight of the Gion Matsuri, which begins with "Kifuruiri" on July 1, is the pre-festival on the 17th and the post-festival on the 24th, during which 34 floats parade and the portable shrine of Yasaka Shrine is carried through the streets. Accompanied by the sounds of the Gion Bayashi "konchikichin," the pre-festival starts from Shijo Karasuma, while the post-festival departs from Karasuma Oike, with the floats parading through the city of Kyoto. The "Kyoto Gion Matsuri Yamaboko Junko" has been registered as an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO. Known as a "moving art museum," the floats are adorned in splendid and luxurious styles that captivate all who see them. For those who wish to view them closely, it is recommended to choose the designated paid seating available on Oike Street. Additionally, the "Yoyama," held three days prior to both the pre-festival and post-festival days featuring the float parades, is also a focal point of attention. During this period, precious items made from Nishijin textiles and other materials are displayed at the town hall, hanging as decorations on the float bases. Visitors can closely admire these exhibits, and during the pre-festival, many stalls line the streets, enhancing the festive atmosphere. After sunset, the Komagata lanterns illuminate the floats, creating a dreamlike and enchanting scene.

One of Japan's three major festivals, the festival of Yasaka Shrine has a history of over 1150 years. The Yamaboko Junko, known as the "mobile art museum," takes place on July 17th (pre-festival) and July 24th (post-festival) and is not to be missed. The Yamaboko Junko is recognized as an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO as part of the "Kyoto Gion Yamaboko Junko." For those who want to enjoy it in detail, it is recommended to choose a paid viewing seat. During the "Yoi-yama" activities, the Komagata lanterns are lit, creating a dreamy atmosphere.