Gion Festival

Another of the most famous festivals in Japan is the Gion festival. Its history stretches back to 869, when the Emperor ordered a festival to appease the gods and prevent pestilence. Since 970, it has been held every year.

The Gion festival is well known for the stunning float procession on the 17th and 24th of July, as well as the smaller "yoiyama" events on the evenings before. The enormous "yama" and "hoko" floats used in the main processions are displayed outdoors during the yoiyama with their lanterns illuminated and Gion-bayashi traditional music playing. There's plenty more going on in July, so see what events coincide with your visit.

Locals and visitors alike dress up in their nicest kimonos and parade throughout town during the Gion festival. The jovial yet deeply spiritual atmosphere, surrounded by the ancient, retro streets of Kyoto's geisha district, offers an intimate encounter with the soul of Japanese culture. Kyoto, as one of Japan's cultural centers, hosts a variety of additional matsuri festivals throughout the year.

Location: Kyoto

Date: July