The Gion Festival unfolds in the streets of Kyoto every year from July 1st to 31st, lasting for about a month. Among the festivities, the "Naginata Hoko" stands out with its remarkable presence. The photo shows the Naginata Hoko moving through the streets of Kyoto in the height of summer. Its luxurious decorations, large wheels, and the people pulling the hoko convey the tradition of Kyoto and the excitement of the festival that has been passed down for over a thousand years. Under the blazing sun, the Gion Festival has been preserved despite the sweat and heat. It is a beauty of Japanese traditional culture that can only be felt in the hot summer of Kyoto. Accompanied by the resonating Gion bayashi, the Gion Festival colors the summer in Kyoto. It is one of Japan's representative festivals that we hope will continue to be cherished.

Gion Festival Shinko Festival: Countless smartphones capturing the Mikoshi procession This image captures the magnificent sight of the Mikoshi procession filling Shijō Street during the "Shinko Festival" of the Gion Festival, which symbolizes summer in Kyoto. The Tōmi Mikoshi, shining in gold and white, is powerfully carried by bearers in white garments. In a bid to catch a glimpse of this historic moment, the crowd lining the streets raises a multitude of smartphones in unison. This vibrant scene represents the fusion of traditional festival culture and modern societal behavior, encapsulating the spirit of our times. Gioncho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture

Gion Festival and Kankō-sai: The fervor and procession that fills the night in Kyoto This scene captures the grand procession that fills Shijō Street during the finale of the Gion Festival, known as Kankō-sai. As the warm light of lanterns illuminates the streets, a large number of men dressed in white garments march powerfully alongside the big tall lanterns of "Shiwaka" and the portable shrine. The gaze and excitement from the spectators resonate in the vibrant night streets of Kyoto, echoing the overwhelming fervor and vitality unique to this traditional event as they escort the deities back to Yasaka Shrine. Gioncho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture.

Gion Festival and Shinko Festival: The Enthusiasm of Children Connecting to the Future This scene captures the adorable yet reliable figures of children supporting the Gion Festival's "Shinko Festival," which colors the summer of Kyoto. Dressed in matching white hanten jackets and headbands, the children stand in a line, carefully holding onto a single rope. Their serious gazes and smiles amidst the lively atmosphere convey the warmth of this traditional event, as well as the vibrant spirit that connects it to the next generation. Gioncho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture

Gion Festival Points for Enjoyment Walking to See the Floats The centerpiece of the Gion Festival is undoubtedly the floats. Seeing the luxurious decorations and intricate designs up close is truly impressive. During the day, you can enjoy the overall grandeur, while at night, the lanterns create a serene atmosphere. Experiencing the Atmosphere of the Evening Festival The time when the floats are lined up makes walking around the city enjoyable. The stalls, the flow of people, and the bustling atmosphere of the float districts all combine to create a festive air that is quintessentially Kyoto. Taking a Close Look at the Townhouses and Decorations Not only the floats but also the surrounding townscape and shop arrangements are charming. Walking while admiring the hanging decorations and ornaments reveals the depth of the festival. Avoiding Crowds The popular time slots can get quite crowded. If you prefer to take your time, choosing early hours or times closer to weekdays makes for easier walking. Useful Items to Have Comfortable shoes Drinks and hats for heat protection A small bag for crowded times Rain gear in case of weather changes Is it true that you shouldn't eat cucumbers during the Gion Festival? This is related to the family crest of Yasaka Shrine, the deity of the Gion Festival. The family crest of Yasaka Shrine resembles the cross-section of a sliced cucumber. Because of this, the townspeople of Kyoto have had a tradition of not eating cucumbers during the Gion Festival.

Gion Festival... Pre-Festival Night On July 15th (Wednesday) and 16th (Thursday), during the evening festivities, certain areas will become pedestrian-only zones (car-free zones), lined with food stalls. The pedestrian zone hours, excluding some streets, are from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM. The pedestrian areas include Shijō Street (from Higashioji Street to Horikawa Street), Karasuma-dori Street (from Oike Street to Takatsuji Street), Muromachi-dōri (from Sanjō Street to Takatsuji Street), and Shinmachidori (from Takoyakushi Street to Takatsuji Street). Bicycles are not allowed in the pedestrian-only zones. The Gion Festival nights can get quite crowded, especially around the floats and major streets, making movement difficult. Avoid going against the flow of people and steer towards less crowded streets. Parents with small children and elderly individuals should refrain from pushing into the crowded center. Stay hydrated and take measures against the heat. As evening falls, the sounds of "Konchikichin" resonate from each float district. The Gion music, played with bells, flutes, and drums, has long been cherished as a sound heralding the arrival of summer in Kyoto. Surrounded by the glow of lanterns, the time spent admiring the floats while listening to Gion music is truly enchanting. The lantern light adds a different kind of splendor compared to daytime. Due to the large crowds, stepping back to view the overall scene is also beautiful.

祇園祭2026年 京都の夏といえば祇園祭が真っ先に浮かびますね・・・ 祇園祭は、京都の八坂神社の祭礼で、疫病退散を祈る行事として平安時代に始まったと伝えられています。 現在は日本三大祭の一つとして知られ、豪華な山鉾や神輿、さまざまな神事が1か月にわたって行われます。 7月1日ごろ 吉符入など 祭の始まりを告げる神事 7月10日 神輿洗・お迎え提灯 鴨川で神輿を清める神事 7月14日〜16日 前祭・宵山 山鉾が建ち並び、夜の賑わいが最高潮 7月17日 前祭・山鉾巡行と神幸祭神輿渡御 7月21日〜23日 後祭・宵山 落ち着いた雰囲気で山鉾を見学 7月24日 後祭・山鉾巡行と花傘巡行 山鉾が再び都大路を進む日 7月31日 疫神社夏越祭 祭の締めくくりの神事 熱中症対策がとても大事な場面です。 通気性のよい薄手の服、帽子、(日傘巡行時はNG) 首元を冷やせるタオルや保冷剤 こまめに飲める水やお茶、スポーツドリンク 塩分タブレットなどナトリウム補給ができるもの 体調が悪い・・・人混みや長時間の観覧を無理しない トイレはコンビニなど使用できません・・・ トイレマップアプリで・・・

The Gion Festival, passed down in Okegawa City, Saitama Prefecture. The photo captures a girl savoring a fruit candy chosen from a stall amidst the sounds of festival music. Dressed in a yukata, she walks with her family through the festival, and the moments of excitement in front of the stalls create summer memories in Japan that transcend generations. It encapsulates the warmth of the festival that the local people have continued to protect and the innocent joy of children.

Summer in Kyoto Can Be Intense – Take a Break and Enjoy Traditional Japanese Play at AriHana Kyoto Kyoto’s rainy season has already ended, and the city is now experiencing very hot summer days. July is also the season of the famous Gion Festival, one of Kyoto’s most iconic summer events. As the festival begins and the Yoiyama evenings start from July 14, the city becomes even more lively and crowded with visitors. When families visit Kyoto in summer, we often hear comments like, “It’s much hotter than we expected,” or “Everywhere is crowded. Is there a quieter place where we can relax with children?” We truly understand how challenging summer sightseeing in Kyoto can be, especially for families traveling with young children. That is one of the reasons we opened AriHana Kyoto. AriHana Kyoto is an indoor family-friendly space where children and parents can relax and enjoy traditional Japanese play together. Families from many different countries have visited us and spent time playing freely, discovering Japanese culture through simple, nostalgic games. Here, you can enjoy traditional Japanese activities such as kendama, daruma otoshi, karuta, and more in a calm and comfortable tatami room. Children can play, parents can sit back and relax, and families can spend unhurried time together away from the summer heat and crowds. If you are looking for a quiet indoor place to rest and create special family memories during your Kyoto trip, we would be delighted to welcome you to AriHana Kyoto. Why not add a different kind of Kyoto memory to your journey this summer?

"Nagano Gion Festival" introduces the latest information on new initiatives✨ 〈If you want to revisit this later, don't forget to tap the "save mark"!〉 "Nagano Gion Festival Yatai Parade" 【Event Schedule】 June 6 (Saturday) Evening Festival (Pre-Event) June 7 (Sunday) Yatai Parade (Main Festival) 【What is the Nagano Gion Festival】 Also known as the Gion Festival of Zenkoji, this festival was once regarded as one of Japan's three great Gion festivals along with Kyoto's Yasaka Shrine and Hiroshima's Itsukushima Shrine. "Real-Time Map of the Yatai Parade" This is the first time for this exciting initiative. On June 7 (Sunday), the real-time map will display the current locations of each town's yatai during the Yatai Parade (Main Festival), allowing you to visit the yatai near you. Using the map will help you enjoy the Nagano Gion Festival efficiently. *There is a link to the highlight "Real-Time Map of the Yatai Parade." "Nagano 100-Year Food Booth" A booth selling "Nagano City's flour products" certified by the Agency for Cultural Affairs will be set up. How about pairing it with the limited 360 bottles of rosé wine "Nagaroze" and craft beer from Nagano City? 【Event Schedule】June 7 (Sunday) 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM 【Location】Central Square "Sake Stamp Rally Tour" Visit the sake houses of the towns affiliated with Yasaka Shrine and enjoy Nagano's local sake while collecting four stamps of the house names on your sheet to receive an original hand towel. 【Event Schedule】June 7 (Sunday) 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM (Hand towel distribution from 10 AM to 4 PM) *The implementation time varies by house. Please check the official website for details. 【Participation Fee】2,000 yen for one shaku (available for purchase at Central Square headquarters and other locations) (Includes one cup of sake at each house) 【Implementation Venues】1) Motoyoshicho & Higashinomoncho (jointly), 2) Nishinomoncho, 3) Higashigocho, 4) Gondocho, 5) Higashitsurugamachi, 6) Shindencho, 7) Kamichitosemachi, 8) Kitaishidocho, 9) Minamiishidocho, 10) Minamichitosemachi & Suehirocho (jointly) #Nagano Gion Festival #Gion Festival #Event #Nagano City #Nagano Tourism

Introducing the grand festival known as "Nagano Gion Matsuri," one of Japan's three major Gion festivals!✨ "Nagano Gion Matsuri Procession of Festival Floats" 【Event Schedule】 June 6 (Saturday) Evening Festival (Pre-event) June 7 (Sunday) Float Procession (Main Festival) 【What is Nagano Gion Matsuri?】 This festival, also referred to as the Gion Matsuri of Zenkoji, was once celebrated alongside Kyoto's Yasaka Shrine and Hiroshima's Itsukushima Shrine as one of Japan's three major Gion festivals. "Evening Festival (Pre-event)" June 6 (Saturday) This year's Evening Festival will be held at Gondo Square! There will also be beer gardens and food trucks. 【Venue】Gondo Square (around Gondo Watanabe Supercenter) 【Time】5:00 PM to 7:00 PM (Beer garden starts at 11:00 AM) "Float Procession (Main Festival)" June 7 (Sunday) Be sure to witness the splendor of the floats and their delicate craftsmanship up close. The vibrant lion dance and the graceful traditional Japanese dance create a beautiful performance that you cannot miss! 【Venue】Zenkoji, Zenkoji Omotesando, Central Square, etc. 【Time】Starting at 9:00 AM with "Tsunakiri" and "Osenori & Float Procession" in front of Central Square "Nagano Gion Matsuri Binzuru Market" June 7 (Sunday) To enhance the Nagano Gion Matsuri, the "Zenkoji Binzuru Market" will be held at Central Square on this day, featuring about 30 carefully selected handmade craft shops. 【Venue】Central Square 【Time】10:00 AM to 4:00 PM #Nagano Gion Matsuri #Binzuru Market #Event #Nagano City #Nagano Tourism

Gion Festival Post-Festival Umbrella procession The festival is held for one month. The Gion Festival is a festival rituals at Yasaka Shrine, and the festival lasts for about one month, starting with the "Yoshi Shrine" on July 1 and ending with the "Epidemic Shrine Summer Eve Festival" on July 31.

Gion Matsuri The festival is held for one month. The Gion Festival is a festival rituals at Yasaka Shrine. The festival begins with the "Lucky Notes" on July 1 and ends with the "Epidemic Shrine Summer Eve Festival" on July 31. It takes place over a period of approximately one month. It is sold only for 4 days before the Gion Festival. Zen Han's "Shimisoku Pork Bun". Every year, when the steaming basket is served in the store, from the morning It is a festival Specialties with a constant line.

Events of the Gion Festival are also packed. When I see the portable shrine washing ceremony, I feel grateful for the many impressions this summer.

Events of the Gion Festival are also packed. When I see the portable shrine washing ceremony, I feel grateful for the many impressions this summer.

The Gion Festival is also known as the "Moving Art Museum". The Yamaboko that suddenly appears in the usual scenery Blend in with the cityscape of Kyoto Impression every year by the beauty of the decorations.

On the morning of the Gion Festival procession, The figure of the Yamaboko quietly waiting for its turn There and a little tension in the silence, It gave off an indescribable aura.

When the Gion Festival begins, Kyoto's Ume plum rain dawns and summer begins. The photo was taken by my wife in front of me. I aimed at the smartphone screen from behind and took a picture.

One of the Specialties of the Gion Festival. Dance of the umbrella halberd. The atmospheric appearance of a boy heading to the dance I only took a picture of the silhouette.

A bowl towering majestically at the venue of the Gion Festival. I've been seen by various people for a long time. A lot of drama is born When I think that it is filled with the thoughts of many people I felt very emotional.

Inside the venue of the Gion Festival The smoke from the stalls is illuminated by the lights, It creates a live feeling as if Yamaboko is standing on the stage It turned out to be a fantastic view.

Shinko Festival of the Gion Festival. Hoyt while carrying a Mikoshi portable shrine! Hoyt!! Scene of shouting was like a symbol of summer in Kyoto.

Inside the venue of the Gion Festival Gari smoke from the stalls rises into the sky The smoke is illuminated by the lights. It was like Yamaboko was standing on the stage of Gion. Combined with the overflowing enthusiasm of people An indescribable live feeling is created The whole venue became a fantastic view.

The mikoshi ceremony is held on the evening of the yamaboko procession day of the Gion Festival. Three mikoshi and their bearers gather in front of the Yasaka Shrine gate. Even when shooting from a distance with a telephoto lens, I could feel the enthusiasm of the bearers and the audience.

The Gion Festival procession in Kyoto. The 38-degree temperature, the crowds, the sweaty men, the photographer who doesn't miss a single moment. It was a hot festival in many ways.

Gion Festival where the blue sky suits you The beauty of the halberd shines when it is held in the blue sky in the hot midsummer yamaboko procession.

Feel the history The decorations around the yamaboko of the Kyoto Gion Festival are called "folding screens" and it is a splendid decoration that reflects the history of being a national treasure even if you look at any hoko ornament.

The Gion Festival after dark. I'm sure I'm not the only one who was relieved to see so many people gathering in one place and that the coronavirus has finally ended. It was one that was able to capture the original Japanese festival.

Gion Festival and people who flow like water. About 100,000 people visit from all over the country every year. I took a picture of such a large number of people flowing.

The moment when the Gion Festival is illuminated by the setting sun in the scorching heat. I learned a lot from my first Gion Festival. Next time, I would like to learn more about the historical background!