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The Heian Jingu Grand Festival, held annually on October 22, is one of the "Three Great Festivals of Kyoto," alongside the Gion Matsuri and Aoi Matsuri. The Jidai Matsuri originated in 1895 as a celebration of the 1100th anniversary of the transfer of the capital to Heian-kyo. The festival showcases a procession that traces the history from the Heian period, when Heian-kyo was established, to the Meiji Restoration, covering approximately 1000 years and introducing the customs of each era.
Famous historical figures such as Katsura Kogoro and Saigo Takamori, key figures of the Meiji Restoration, as well as the Sengoku warlord Oda Nobunaga, make appearances throughout the event. About 2000 citizens participate in a street parade that lasts for two hours. The costumes, including those of Sei Shonagon in a twelve-layered kimono and Murasaki Shikibu in a small kimono, reflect the fashion differences of each era based on thorough historical research, adding another layer of enjoyment to the festival.
Among the highlights is the "Muromachi Rakuchu Folk Dance Troupe," which recreates popular folk dances of Kyoto, along with participants portraying commoners and women of the time, such as the "Shirakawa Woman" and "Ohara Woman." There are also pre-festival events held on the 21st and post-festival events on the 23rd.
For those who wish to enjoy the festival in detail, it is recommended to choose paid seating.
