Gion Matsuri

Japan · festivals · tradition · summer

Massive decorated floats. The festival is famous for its Yamaboko Junkō processions, which are parades of enormous, ornately decorated floats that roll through the streets of Kyoto. These floats are so big and heavy that it takes dozens of people working together to push and guide them.

Protected by Yasaka Shrine. The festival is officially a Shinto festival centered at Yasaka Shrine in Kyoto's Gion district. The shrine is the festival's patron, meaning it blesses and oversees all the celebrations.

Chasing away sickness. Long ago, people believed the festival could purify their city and protect it from diseases. Even though we understand germs differently now, the festival keeps its original spiritual purpose of bringing health and peace to Kyoto.

Two weeks of celebration. The main events happen on July 17 and 24 each year, but the whole month of July fills with ceremonies, music, and traditions. It's one of Japan's biggest festivals, drawing visitors from all over the world.

Living history on display. Gion Matsuri shows off centuries of Japanese traditions, from the way floats are built to the special clothes people wear. It's like stepping back in time to see how Japanese culture celebrated together for hundreds of years.