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Gion Matsuri: Inside one of Japan's most storied festivals

Euronews

02-07-2025

Euronews

Gion Matsuri: Inside one of Japan's most storied festivals

In July, Kyoto celebrates the historic Gion Matsuri festival, one of Japan's most famous and long-running traditions. With origins dating back to 869, the event draws more than one million people each year. It's a bucket list experience for many visitors to the Japanese city. Here are some expert tips from Japanese rail company JR Pass on how to enjoy the festival in the most authentic and memorable way possible. What is Japan's Gion Matsuri festival? Gion Matsuri is one of Japan's three most iconic festivals, alongside Tenjin Matsuri and Kanda Matsuri. Its origins trace back to the time when Kyoto was still the capital. Spanning across the entire month of July, the most spectacular feature of the event is the procession of Yamahokos on 17 July where floats, known as 'moving museums', are paraded through the city, followed by the second, smaller procession on the 24. Despite its name, many of the main festivities don't take place in Kyoto's Gion district; instead, they happen on the other side of the Kamo River. The famous floats of the Gion Matsuri festival A total of 34 floats are used throughout the festival, with 23 featuring at the Early Festival Yamahoko Junko (17 July), and the remaining 11 being shown at the Latter Festival Yamahoko Junko (24 July). The floats take a guided three-kilometre route through the Shijo, Kawaramachi and Oike streets, with viewpoints available along the way. They are divided into two categories: 23 yama floats and 10 hoko floats. Yama floats have platforms whose sides are decorated to resemble mountain scenery while hoko floats are topped by tall wooden poles originally intended to summon the Plague God. The latter are particularly impressive as they can be up to 7.5 metres tall and weigh up to 11,000 kilos. Each float is associated with a historical or mythological tale. Learning even one or two can enrich your experience, and locals are often happy to share these stories if you ask. Though lesser known, there are also three portable shrines (mikoshi) that are paraded on the night of the 17th, carrying deities of Yasaka Jinja to Otabisho in the downtown of Kyoto, where they remain until the 24th. These shrines represent the physical transfer of the deities from Yasaka Shrine to the Otabisho - a temporary resting place. The mikoshi procession is the sacred heart of Gion Matsuri, enacting the movement of divine spirits into the city to bless and protect it. While lesser known to tourists, for locals and worshippers, it's the most spiritually meaningful part of the festival. Alongside the floats, the festival has also maintained its practice of choosing a young boy to ride atop the Naginata hoko, the first float of the parade. This boy is selected as a sacred messenger to the gods, first sitting on the float on 13 July and being unable to touch the ground until the parade ends on 17 July. Join Kyoto's night parties for festival food specialities Each parade is preceded by three nights of celebration, during which the general public can visit (and sometimes go inside) the floats, which are parked up in various locations throughout the city. On these nights, the streets are packed with various food and drink vendors, allowing visitors and locals alike the chance to try Kyoto's regional specialities. Look for Kyoto-style okonomiyaki, yatsuhashi sweets, or locally made kakigori (shaved ice). Many stalls are run by families from Kyoto and only operate during festivals. You can also purchase chimaki (good luck charms). More than just souvenirs, these charms are tied to specific floats and meant to ward off misfortune. Buying one directly from the float's neighbourhood team supports local traditions and lets you engage with the community. If you want to truly soak up the Japanese festival traditions, many locals welcome tourists to wear yukatas - lightweight robes that have become a hallmark of Japanese festivals. Rent one of these robes and learn the basics of how to wear it respectfully (e.g. folding left over right). Some include small accessories, such as folding fans (sensu) or drawstring bags (kinchaku). How to avoid the crowds at the Gion Matsuri festival As one of Japan's most famous festivals, it's no surprise that the event draws large crowds. While the parade itself is packed no matter what, there are steps you can take to navigate it more comfortably. If you're hoping to avoid the busiest times, consider visiting the floats in the afternoon. Most of the heavy traffic comes from teenagers and office workers, who arrive in the evening when lanterns are lit and the festival atmosphere peaks. If you want to escape the crowd entirely, take a walk to the nearby Maruyama Park. It's a quieter spot where you can relax, enjoy a snack and decompress from the excitement of the festivities. How to get to Kyoto by train According to JR Pass, the most convenient way to reach Kyoto is via Japan's extensive railway system, most notably its bullet trains (Shinkansen). The Tokaido Shinkansen line connects Tokyo, Yokohama, Osaka, and Nagoya to Kyoto. From Tokyo, it takes just over 2 hours to reach Kyoto. From Osaka, the trip is as short as 15 minutes, and from Nagoya, it's around 35 minutes. For travellers coming from Hiroshima or Fukuoka, the Sanyo Shinkansen provides a direct route to Kyoto, taking roughly 1 hour and 40 minutes from Hiroshima and around 3 hours from Fukuoka (Hakata Station). Visitors from northern cities such as Kanazawa can take the Limited Express Thunderbird, which reaches Kyoto in about 2 hours and 20 minutes. For a cheaper option, standard trains run all across the country, stopping at both major hubs such as Tokyo, Fukuoka, and Kyoto, as well as quieter towns and villages.

Japan in July: The Best Things To Do and Places To Visit

Tokyo Weekender

30-06-2025

Tokyo Weekender

Japan in July: The Best Things To Do and Places To Visit

Japan in July brings some of the country's most quintessential and cinematic summer scenes, from spectacular firework displays to tranquil emerald gardens. This is a perfect time to enjoy treats like kakigori (shaved ice) and cold udon. Because much of the country sees extreme heat and humidity, sightseeing may be challenging for some. But plenty of regions with milder summers offer picturesque outdoor adventures for nature lovers, and there's never a shortage of indoor fun in cities like Tokyo. Here is everything you need to know to make the most of Japan in July. List of Contents: July Travel Overview Popular Activities and Things To Do in July Top Japan Destinations To Visit in July Travel Tips and Recommendations Related Posts July Travel Overview Across much of Japan, July is characterized by hot and humid weather, with average temperatures ranging from 23-29°C (73-84°F). Central Japan, including Tokyo and Kyoto, can see highs between 27-35°C (81-95°F). The rainy season typically winds down or ends in the first half of July. While there can still be moderate rainfall, it generally lessens towards the end of the month. July is the start of one of Japan's peak domestic travel seasons, as Japanese school vacations begin mid-month. This means popular attractions, coastal areas and major cities will be fairly busy. Traditional festivals and fireworks are the highlights of July, including Kyoto's Gion Matsuri and Osaka's Tenjin Matsuri. Cooler regions like Hokkaido and the Japanese Alps offer refreshing escapes and beautiful hiking trails. mitami matsuri, tokyo Popular Activities and Things To Do in July Immerse Yourself in Summer Festivals (Matsuri) July to August is the prime festival season. Experiencing a traditional matsuri brings a chance to immerse yourself in the spirit of a Japanese summer through food, dance and music. For those who feel easily overwhelmed by crowds, we recommend checking out smaller, local festivals rather than major ones. Gion Matsuri (Kyoto) and Tenjin Matsuri (Osaka) are among Japan's 'Big Three Festivals,' along with Tokyo's Kanda Matsuri; the former two take place in July, while Kanda Matsuri is held in mid-May. Tanabata , the Star Festival, is also celebrated across Japan in early July, commemorating the annual meeting of the deities Orihime and Hikoboshi with colorful streamers and bamboo decorations. July also marks the beginning of hanabi taikai (fireworks displays). Many cities and towns host incredible shows over rivers and bays. The Ultimate Guide to Summer Festivals in Tokyo aharen beach, tokashiki island, okinawa Hit the Beach There are plenty of beaches easily accessible from Tokyo. Japan's official swimming season typically begins mid-July and continues through August. For a tropical escape, Okinawa's pristine beaches offer crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. For a closer destination, check out Izu Peninsula in Shizuoka Prefecture, which is known for its beautiful beaches, such as Shirahama Beach. Enjoy Seasonal Foods A popular summer delicacy in Japan is nagashi somen ('flowing noodles'). Cold noodles trickle down bamboo flumes in cold water, and chopstick-wielding diners catch as much as they can as the noodles pass by. You can find this practice in restaurants around Japan, including Hana-no-omotenashi Choseikan , a ryokan in Saitama Prefecture that offers an all-you-can-eat nagashi somen plan to non-guests as well. You should also try kakigori , a shaved ice dessert that can get surprisingly elaborate . A summer mainstay, it's served at a variety of locations, ranging from street vendors to hotel lounges. Some are akin to snow cones, but others are garnished with luxurious fruits and syrups. Mizu shingen mochi , a 'raindrop cake' that resembles a clear raindrop, is a beautiful and delicious variation. It's typically served with kinako (soybean powder) and kuromitsu (brown sugar syrup), plated on a leaf. The Best Cold Ramen Spots in Tokyo: Where To Eat Hiyashi Chuka Noodles tateyama, toyama prefecture Go Hiking July is an excellent time for hiking in Japan, as the warmer temperatures open up many high-altitude trails that are inaccessible during other seasons. Most famously, July marks the official start of the climbing season for Mount Fuji, drawing thousands of eager hikers aiming to witness the iconic sunrise from its summit. Beyond Fuji, the Japanese Alps, particularly regions like Kamikochi in Nagano, become a paradise for trekkers with their stunning landscapes and wildflowers. In northern Japan, Hokkaido's Daisetsuzan National Park and Rebun Island also offer fantastic hiking opportunities amid pristine wilderness and vibrant summer flora, providing a welcome respite from the heat of the main islands. 7 Mountain Day Trips from Tokyo for Nature Lovers farm tomita Top Japan Destinations To Visit in July Furano, Hokkaido Prefecture While much of mainland Japan swelters, Furano offers a relatively mild and comfortable climate. The highlight is undoubtedly Farm Tomita , where vast stretches of purple lavender create a breathtaking spectacle, though various other flower farms nearby — like Shikisai-no-oka , which is a half-hour drive from the Furano city center, also boast vibrant displays of poppies, sunflowers and more. Beyond the floral beauty, July in Furano allows for diverse outdoor activities such as rafting on the Sorachi River , exploring the surrounding countryside by bike or enjoying local produce like sweet melons. Kabira Bay in Ishigaki Ishigaki, Okinawa Prefecture July in the Okinawan island of Ishigaki is ideal for those who want a quintessential tropical summer. Marine adventures, like snorkeling in the famously clear blue waters of Kabira Bay, and chances of encountering manta rays and sea turtles, make Okinawa an enchanting vacation destination. The island sees increased crowds as Japanese school holidays begin, particularly from mid-July, so booking accommodations and tours well in advance is highly recommended. hakata gion yamakasa festival, fukuoka Fukuoka, Fukuoka Prefecture Fukuoka has been rising in popularity as a tourist destination in recent years, and there's no better time to visit than in July. The historic Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival , a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage event, is held annually from July 1 to 15. It culminates in a thrilling early morning race, where teams of loincloth-clad men dramatically carry decorated festival floats ( kakiyama ) through the city streets. Beyond the festival, visitors can also enjoy Fukuoka's renowned food scene, particularly its tonkotsu ramen and lively yatai (street food stalls), and explore cultural sites like Kushida Shrine and Ohori Park. You can also find stunning beaches not too far from the city, especially on the Itoshima Peninsula. Kamikochi, Nagano Prefecture Kamikochi, a picturesque plateau along the Azusa River in the Northern Japan Alps, offers a pristine escape from the summer heat, making it a highly sought-after summer destination among locals. Situated at an elevation of 1,500 meters, Kamikochi sees temperatures that are consistently cooler than nearby cities like Matsumoto. From leisurely strolls along the Azusa River connecting iconic spots like Taisho Pond, Kappa Bridge and Myojin Pond, to more challenging treks into the surrounding Northern Japan Alps, Kamikochi caters to all levels of hikers and nature enthusiasts. A Hiker's Guide to Japan's Northern Alps Travel Tips and Recommendations Stay Hydrated In most urban and suburban regions, carrying a water bottle isn't necessary as vending machines are ubiquitous. You can also try Japanese sports drinks and other salt-replenishing drinks like Salty Lychee, known for its refreshing and lightly sweet taste. Use Cooling Products Japanese convenience stores and drugstores are a treasure trove of cooling items. Look for cooling body wipes, sprays, portable fans and neck coolers. 5 Japanese Products To Save You From The Summer Heat Plan Your Day Strategically Schedule outdoor sightseeing and walking for cooler parts of the day like mornings and evenings, and retreat into air-conditioned spaces like museums and shopping arcades during peak hours. Pack For Flexibility Since sudden downpours may happen, portable umbrellas are useful; choose one that can double as a parasol on sunny days. Sunscreen, sunglasses, comfortable walking shoes, sandals and mosquito repellent are also helpful. Related Posts Japan in April: The Best Things To Do and Places To Visit Japan in May: The Best Things To Do and Places To Visit Japan in June: The Best Things To Do and Places To Visit

Everyone's Traveling to Kyoto Right Now—Here's Why

Elle

03-06-2025

Entertainment
Elle

Everyone's Traveling to Kyoto Right Now—Here's Why

Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy. Each spring in Kyoto, more than 500 people in traditional dress process through the streets for Aoi Matsuri, a festival with roots dating back to the 6th century. Some 1,500 years since it began, Aoi Matsuri remains one of Kyoto's most beloved annual events—and it's just one of many festivals held in the city throughout the year. For Gion Matsuri, which lasts for the entire month of July, locals are encouraged to wear summer-weight yukata kimonos to indulge in beer and street food and watch large-scale parades of colorful floats. Unlike the bustling, sometimes-claustrophobic streets of Tokyo, the world's largest city, Kyoto exudes a sense of serenity, a calmness that gives even greater meaning to these special events. Peel back the city's traditional exterior, and you'll find modernity as well: a train station like something out of Blade Runner, filled with immersive digital installations; a thriving contemporary art gallery scene; and, increasingly, a synergy of old and new that inspires creatives and global brands. Chanel presented its latest haute joaillerie collection, 'Reach for the Stars,' there on June 2. And Dior staged an elaborate pre-fall 2025 show in April in the garden of Tō-ji Temple. The lavish affair was inspired in part by former creative director Maria Grazia Chiuri's visit to Kyoto last fall. Her collection drew upon images of 15th- and 16th-century Japanese designs, and she worked with the traditional Japanese fabric company Tatsumura Textile Co. Kyoto is a city of temples, shrines, and gardens, where the annual cherry blossom season draws visitors from around the world and where it is still possible to see geishas promenading through the Gion district. You'll find modern Japanese shopping here, but plenty of traditional treasures, too. According to Toshiyuki Matsubayashi, master potter and 16th-generation leader of Asahiyaki, a revered pottery studio in Kyoto, what sets his city apart is that its history has not merely been preserved, but celebrated as an essential element of daily life. The interplay of the past with more contemporary domains of design, art, and hospitality is what helps his family-owned, 400-year-old business survive. His workshop now offers an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour to guests of the Park Hyatt Kyoto—an opening up of traditional methods perhaps unthinkable 100 years ago. Hotels are also experiencing a renaissance—which helps explain why luxury travel adviser network Virtuoso reports that its Kyoto bookings for 2024 spiked 115 percent over the prior year. (Visitors to Japan overall grew 47 percent from 2023 to 2024, and Japan was the most popular country on social media, per a study by Titan Travel.) Kyoto was long known for the ryokan—a type of traditional inn with paper walls, tatami floor mats, and communal onsen hot spring baths. That all changed with the 2020 arrival of the Ace Hotel Kyoto—a complete reimagining of the Kyoto Central Telephone Exchange building by star architects Kengo Kuma & Associates, with Los Angeles-based Commune Design doing the interiors. It's part of a wave of international hotel brand openings that is just now reaching full steam. The Six Senses Kyoto opened last year in the preserved historic district of Higashiyama, enhancing its impeccable five-star wellness concept with Japanese touches—its spa features an Alchemy Bar where guests can blend their own bespoke beauty scrubs with ingredients reflecting Japan's 24 sekki, or micro-seasons. Last year also marked the opening of the nearby Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto, built to blend into the mountainous landscape surrounding the city, and the first hotel in Kyoto to have an in-house Noh stage. This fall brings the arrival of the glittering Capella Kyoto, designed by Kengo Kuma & Associates and Brewin Design Office, with a design informed by wabi-sabi aesthetics and Zen gardens. Perhaps most exciting of all, next year the Japanese hotel group Imperial Hotel, Ltd. will unveil the extensively restored and renovated Imperial Hotel, Kyoto, in the landmarked Yasaka Kaikan, a former theater where geishas and their maiko trainees once performed. The architectural firm Obayashi Corporation will oversee construction, while interior design will be done by New Material Research Laboratory Co., a Japanese design firm that specializes in the modern use of traditional Japanese construction methods and natural materials. Their brief for the new Imperial? Old is new. This story appears in the Summer 2025 issue of ELLE. GET THE LATEST ISSUE OF ELLE

The Mainichi

19-05-2025

Entertainment
The Mainichi

The Mainichi News Quiz Answer for May 19

What is the name of the historic Kyoto festival, featuring a procession of about 500 people in aristocratic costumes, held annually on May 15? A) Gion Matsuri B) Aoi Matsuri C) Tenjin Matsuri D) Jidai Matsuri Correct Answer: B) Aoi Matsuri Kyoto's early summer Aoi Matsuri drew around 33,000 spectators this year on May 15. The festival, dating back to the sixth century, featured around 500 participants dressed in traditional aristocratic costumes. They marched approximately 8 kilometers through central Kyoto, reenacting an imperial procession from the Heian period.