Gion Matsuri

About

Gion Matsuri is a thousand-year-old festival held annually in Kyoto, Japan, throughout the month of July. It is associated with the Yasaka Shrine and is one of Japan's largest and most famous festivals. The festival originated in 869 as a purification ritual to appease the gods during an epidemic. Over time, it evolved into a celebration of Kyoto's culture, featuring elaborate floats, traditional performances, and street food. The festival's highlight is the Yamaboko Junko procession, which takes place on July 17 and 24. These processions feature two types of floats: yama and hoko, decorated with tapestries and textiles. The event also includes traditional dances and performances. In the evenings leading up to the processions, Kyoto's streets transform into pedestrian zones with food stalls and cultural exhibitions. The festival is a blend of religious observance and vibrant street celebrations, attracting visitors worldwide.