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.