The Gion Matsuri (Gion Festival) is one of Japan’s grandest summer festivals, held annually in July in Kyoto. With over 1,100 years of history, this festival honors Yasaka Shrine and features highlights like the yamahoko (float) parade and yoiyama evening festivities. The spectacular pageantry of the ornate floats and lively food stalls have become iconic sights of summer in Kyoto. Through the Gion Matsuri, you can experience the rich traditions, culture, and passion of Japan’s ancient capital. If you wish to witness the essence of a Japanese summer festival, be sure to visit during the Gion Matsuri.
Gion Matsuri (Gion Festival)
A festival steeped in 1,000 years of history and tradition
Highlights
The Breathtaking Yamahoko Float Parade
Highlight: The undisputed highlight of the Gion Matsuri is the yamahoko float parade. On July 17th and 24th, townspeople pull the lavishly decorated yamahoko floats through the streets in an awe-inspiring spectacle. Particularly impressive are the "tsuji-mawashi" float turning maneuvers at intersections. The chance to see the parade up close comes just once a year, so don't miss savoring this quintessential Gion experience.
Evening Festivities at Yoiyama
Food Stalls and Atmospheric Streets: The yoiyama evening festivities preceding the parade are also not to be missed. Lively streets lined with food stalls imbue the air with festival energy. Snacking on yakisoba, karaage, and kakigori from the yatai stalls is part of the fun. Under the enchanting lights of the illuminated floats and lanterns, soak in the ambiance of a Kyoto summer night.
Partake in Gion Matsuri Traditions
Mikoshi Cleansing and Chitose Amulets: Beyond the float parade, the Gion Matsuri offers many other memorable activities. On July 10th, witness the sacred "Mikoshi Arai" ritual of purifying portable shrines in a pond. During yoiyama, the streets bustle with visitors seeking chitose amulets called "chimaki." Experiencing these indispensable traditions will deepen your appreciation for the Gion Matsuri. Don't miss out.
Information
| Name in Japanese | 祇園祭 |
| Performance | July 1-31 |
FAQ
When and where is the Gion Matsuri held?
The Gion Matsuri is held annually from July 1st to 31st. The main events take place at Yasaka Shrine and surrounding streets, with key dates: Yoiyama (preceding festival): July 14th-16th
Yamahoko Parade (preceding): July 17th Yoiyama (following festival): July 21st-23rd Yamahoko Parade (following): July 24th On those dates, Yasaka Shrine’s vicinity and major streets like Shijo-dori, Kawaramachi-dori, and along the Kamogawa River are especially lively.
What are the crowd conditions and dress code advisories?
As Kyoto’s biggest summer festival, the Gion Matsuri draws massive crowds, especially on yoiyama and parade days with traffic restrictions in place. Using public transportation is highly recommended. Kyoto summers are extremely humid, so lightweight, breathable clothing is crucial to prevent heat illness. Comfortable walking shoes are a must.
Can you briefly explain the origins and history of the Gion Matsuri?
The Gion Matsuri began as a ritual to ward off epidemics, with roots dating back to the Heian Period. In 869 AD, the Goryoue ceremony was held during a major outbreak, marking the festival’s beginnings. The yamahoko parade itself started in the early 1500s. Ever since, this over 1,000-year-old festival has been beloved by Kyotoites.
