The Gion Matsuri festival – leaning about the eternal traditions from the 9th century
As a UNESCO World Heritage event, the magnificent festival in Kyoto is a must-see phenomenon when you visit Japan. Ted Ueno, Managing Director, is also deeply involved in this event every year, especially with its highlight procession ritual. He uniquely produces the tour with thorough research, and the in-depth story is told as to what the true significance of the ritual is.
Highlights
The Gion Matsuri festival in Kyoto is designated as a UNESCO Intangible World Heritage, and is said to be the largest in scale and the most gorgeous among all other major festivals in Japan. The time-honored ritual of the Yasaka Jinja Shinto shrine has been handed down generation to generation since the 9th century by the local people’s enthusiasm and lifetime effort. The highlight is the opening procession of 23 floats on July 17th and the return procession of ten floats on July 24th. This guided tour is conducted during festival eves of July 14th to 16th, and July 21st to 23rd, when the floats are respectively set in the street and can be observed amid the lively yet classic atmosphere of the Shinto ritual.
Details
Date | July 14th, 15th, 16th, 21st, 22nd, 23rd |
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Time | Tour: 16:20-18:00 (Reception:16:10) |
Fee | 2,000 yen with prior reservation and payment Free for 12 years old and younger when accompanied by adult |
Meeting location | At No.23 exit of Shijo Station - Subway Karasuma Line |
Remarks | No insurance for accidents or injury during the tour |