Gion Matsuri: A Festival Preserving 1,100 Years of Kyoto’s History
What is Gion Matsuri?
Gion Matsuri is a festival that began approximately 1,100 years ago in Kyoto, Japan’s former capital. It is one of Japan’s three major festivals, held annually from July 1 to July 31. Designated as both a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage and an Important Cultural Property of Japan, its most celebrated events are the grand Yamahoko Junko parades held on July 17 and 24. Attracting visitors from all over Japan and the world, Gion Matsuri beautifully conveys the rich cultural history of Kyoto.
While the festival is renowned for its beauty, its unique terminology can be confusing for those unfamiliar with Japanese culture. This guide is designed to help visitors, especially those planning to visit Kyoto in July, understand and enjoy Gion Matsuri.
About Japanese Festivals
Traditional Japanese festivals are often rooted in Shinto or Buddhist beliefs, much like European festivals that celebrate harvests, health, or peace. In Shintoism, Japan’s indigenous religion, countless deities are believed to reside in nature, and each festival is dedicated to a specific deity.
In traditional Japanese society, where most people were engaged in agriculture, everyday life was simple and modest. However, weddings and local festivals were celebrated with great extravagance. Most traditional festivals feature a Mikoshi, a portable shrine believed to carry a deity, carried through the town by local men (and sometimes women today). In the case of Gion Matsuri, Mikoshi and Yamahoko (elaborately decorated floats) take center stage. These Yamahoko floats, adorned with exquisite artworks, are designated Important Tangible Folk Cultural Properties. Some weigh up to 12 tons and require over 180 people to assemble, parade, and dismantle.
The History of Gion Matsuri
The origins of Gion Matsuri date back to around 863 AD when Kyoto suffered from a severe epidemic. In 864, Mount Fuji erupted, and in 869, a major earthquake and tsunami caused widespread devastation. At the time, such disasters were believed to be caused by the vengeful spirits of the deceased. To appease these spirits and pray for health and safety, a grand festival was held in 869, marking the beginning of Gion Matsuri.
Over the centuries, the festival endured interruptions due to wars like the Onin War in the 15th century, devastating fires in the 18th century, a cholera epidemic in the 19th century, World War II in the 20th century, and the COVID-19 pandemic in the 21st century. Despite these challenges, Gion Matsuri has continued to thrive as a testament to Kyoto’s resilience and cultural heritage.
Schedule of Gion Matsuri
Gion Matsuri takes place throughout July, with the most spectacular events being the Yamahoko Junko parades on July 17 and July 24.
- July 17 (First Parade):
At 9:00 AM, 23 Yamahoko floats depart from Shijo Karasuma and proceed east along Shijo Street, north on Kawaramachi Street, and west on Oike Street. Highlights include the “Shimenawa Cutting” ceremony by the Naginata Hoko Chigo (sacred child) and the dramatic “Tsuji Mawashi,” where floats are manually rotated at intersections. - July 24 (Second Parade):
At 9:30 AM, 11 floats begin at Karasuma Oike, following a reverse route from the first parade. Look out for the Ofune Hoko float and the reverse Tsuji Mawashi. The Hanagasa Junko procession also follows this route, adding a unique touch.
Highlights of Gion Matsuri
Kyoto is renowned for its traditional crafts, and the festival showcases these in the form of elaborate Mikoshi and Yamahoko floats, as well as the exquisite kimonos worn by participants. Many Yamahoko floats feature rare and historic designs, including:
- A Gobelin Tapestry from Belgium depicting “Rebecca Offering Water to Isaac,” originally presented to Shogun Tokugawa Iemitsu in 1633 by the Dutch East India Company. Replicas are used during the festival, but the original can still be viewed.
- Decorations inspired by 15th-century Chinese motifs.
- Gobelin-style textiles from Kyoto’s Nishijin district, designed during Japan’s isolation period to imagine European court life.
The presence of these European artifacts and motifs is fascinating, especially considering Japan’s long history of isolation. The festival’s floats represent a blend of Japanese and international influences over the centuries.
Tips for Enjoying Gion Matsuri
Be Aware of Crowds
Kyoto, known for its over-tourism issues, becomes exceptionally crowded during Gion Matsuri. Streets are pedestrian-only during the festival, and cars are banned in many areas. However, the sheer number of visitors may still make it difficult to view the main events without proper planning.
Paid Viewing Seats
- Front Row: ¥6,000
- Other Rows: ¥4,000
- Premium Seats: ¥150,000
Stay in a Hotel Overlooking the Parade
Several hotels offer rooms with views of the Gion Matsuri parades, allowing guests to enjoy the festivities comfortably from their windows. Make sure to request a room with a view of the floats when booking.
Recommended hotels include:
- Hotel Okura Kyoto
Address: 537-4 Ichinofunairicho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-0924
https://www.okura-nikko.com/japan/kyoto/hotel-okura-kyoto/ - Hotel Gimmond Kyoto
Address: 595 Kikkoya-cho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto, 604-8105
https://gimmond.co.jp/en/ - Toyoko Inn Kyoto
Address: 28 Naginataboko-cho, Shijo Karasuma, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8008
https://www.toyoko-inn.com/search/detail/00053?lcl_id=en - Hotel Grand Bach Kyoto Select
Address: 363 Naramono-cho, Shijo Teramachi, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto, 600-8004
https://www.grandbach.co.jp/kyoto/
By booking well in advance, you can secure a prime viewing spot for the Gion Matsuri from the comfort of your hotel.
