Gion Matsuri

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Gion Matsuri is one of the three biggest festivals in Japan. It is a festival that takes place at Yasaka Shrine in Kyoto. It started as a prayer for getting rid of plagues about approx. 1,100 years ago. Gion Matsuri takes place for a month from July 1-31 every year. Various preparations and events occur during this period. The main event of this festival is "Sakimatsuri" at the beginning and "Atomatsuri" at the end of the festival. In addition to those two events, there is also "Yamahoko Junko" in which yoiyama that play music with flutes and drums, and brilliant and gorgeous floats, called yamahoko, parade on the streets. For 1,100 years, Gion Matsuri has been a seasonal event in the hot summer of Kyoto. It is worth seeing this dynamic event.

Yoiyama

Before and after Sakinomatsuri and Atonomatsuri, a event called "Yoiyama" takes place. In this event, a dozen lanterns on each float are lit and music called Gionbayashi is played. 40-50 people play about 30 songs on a float.

Yamahoko Junko

Decorated gorgeously, great floats go around the city of Kyoto twice, at Sakinomatsuri and at Atonomatsuri. It is called Yamahoko Junko, which is the main event of this festival. You shouldn't miss this event in which more than 30 floats go around the city.

Shinkosai

It is not only Yamahoko Junko that is worth seeing during Gion Matsuri. In fact, Shinkosai on 17th is also another highlight of this festival. Three mikoshi (floats) are gathered in front of the East gate of Yasaka Shrine and leave for Otabisho, each taking different routes. Those mikoshi stay at Otabisho for one week. Then it will go back to Yasaka Shrine on 24th.

Hanagasa Junko

Hanagasa Junko is a parade of women wearing "hanagasa" decorated with flowers for this festival. From Yasaka Shrine, they go around the city and go back to the shrine. Led by children chanting rhythmically, 1,000 people walk around the city. You shouldn't miss beautiful women with white-painted faces.