Festival Season in Kyoto – A Blend of Tradition and Modern world 🎆

Summer is gradually arriving in Japan, and with it comes one of my favourite things, which is matsuri!

All across the country, towns and cities are filled with festive energy, but nowhere is this more magical than my hometown, Kyoto.

Gion Matsuri: Kyoto’s Grand Summer Festival

The most famous of Kyoto’s festivals is Gion Matsuri, which runs through the entire month of July.

It’s said to have started over 1,100 years ago as a ritual to stop the spread of disease.

While there are many events throughout the month, the highlight is definitely the Yamaboko Junko, an elaborate parade of towering festival floats called hoko, some nearly 20 meters tall.

Watching them majestically roll through the narrow city streets is a breathtaking experience✨

But for me, the most memorable part is Yoiyama, the lead-up nights before the main parade.

From July 14th to 16th, the streets of Shijo and Karasuma turn into a pedestrian paradise, filled with glowing lanterns, food stalls, and music.

The illuminated floats look almost magical in the evening light. 🌟

In my childhood, I looked forward to going to the festival with my friends every year after school.

Wearing yukata👘 (summer kimono), helping each other get ready, and walking through the lively streets was an adventure in itself.

The smell of yakisoba, shaved ice, and candied apples still lingers in my memory.

Even as an adult, I used to work near Shijo Street, I often stopped by after work to enjoy the atmosphere.

Seeing people in yukata, traditional townhouses decorated for the occasion, and festival-only sweets reminded me that summer had truly arrived.

The Gion Festival takes place throughout the entire month of July, although the main events—like the lively food stalls and the grand Yamaboko parade—happen on specific dates.

Still, you can enjoy the festive atmosphere all month long!🥳

Before the parade, you’ll see traditional object (Yamaboko) being built right among the office buildings and shops, which creates a fascinating mix of old and new.

There are also special foods, accessories, and unique items sold only during this season, making July in Kyoto feel like a long, joyful celebration.

Lat year, my mom bought me ear rings of the Dango🍡, folding fan🪭, and drum🥁!

In Japan, summer may be the season of festivals, but in Kyoto, festivals happen year-round. 

They’re not just celebrations—they’re immersive experiences that bring history, tradition, and the changing seasons to life.

If you ever have the chance, I hope you can experience Kyoto’s living history for yourself. 💓

It’s something you’ll never forget.😆

Manae