Since its first iteration in the year 869, Kyoto has celebrated its largest festival, Gion Matsuri, every summer for over a thousand years!
Summer may not be the most popular season for visiting, but it happens to be when the yearly Gion Matsuri, arguably the largest festival in Japan, takes place in Gion, Kyoto!
Every year in July, thousands gather to celebrate this cultural tradition steeped in history. Parades, music, and delicious food are all part of this incredible event that spans the entire month!
A Tradition to Appease the Gods
The Gion Matsuri festival began in 869 as an attempt to appease the Gods during an epidemic.
As a deadly illness grew widespread across Kyoto, the citizens turned to spiritual intervention to ease their suffering.
The people prayed for good fortune and erected 66 spears toward the sky to represent the 66 provinces of Japan at the time.
Global Popularity
From the famous Yasaka Shrine all the way down to Shijo district, flocks of people crowd the streets in a pilgrimage-like fashion to witness this annual event.
Streets are closed off, traffic controllers man the roads, and police officers patrol the areas as the streets of Kyoto turn into a people parade!
A delightful combination of local Japanese residents and foreign tourists rejoice in this harmonious celebration of cultural history and heritage.
Cultural Exhibits
As the night approaches, the endless decorations of lanterns light up to illuminate the streets of Gion.
A constant ringing sound can be heard as these moving carriage-like vehicles known as hoka are pulled along by a spirited force of chanting participants.
Beautiful melodies of bells, drums, and flutes fill the air as the crowds become more and more lively and joyful.
Pedestrian Paradise!
Along Shijo street, you will find night markets featuring endless stalls of street food selling all kinds of delicious Japanese and Western foods.
Whether you’re craving some delicious fried yakisoba noodles or a classic carnival-style fried potato skewer, you’ll find it all at Gion Matsuri’s vibrant night markets!
Of course, if you are planning to visit Japan, you’ll need a way to get around the country as efficiently and affordably as possible. Japan Rail provides an abundance of travel passes to suit your travel needs. So whether you are traveling individually or as a group, the JR Pass is every traveler’s go-to for getting around and making the most of your time in Japan!