Yamaboko Junko, Gion Matsuri

Yamaboko Junko, Gion Matsuri

This year’s “Yamaboko Junko” parade of huge wooden festival floats (Yama and Hoko) took place under heavy rain (we were spare a typhoon but got a tropical storm). There were talks of cancelation, but I’ve heard that . . .

Shirabyoshi Dancer, Gion Matsuri

Shirabyoshi Dancer, Gion Matsuri

The Gion Matsuri is Kyoto’s largest festival. it is a unique opportunity to see a number of Japanese traditions, religious processions, dances, music, historical costumes, etc. Here, Shirabyōshi (白拍子) female dancers . . .

Gion Matsuri Festival

Gion Matsuri Festival

Gion Matsuri (祇園祭), the festival of the Yasaka Shrine, is one of the three largest festivals in Japan, and probably the most famous one. It takes place in Kyoto over the entire month of July. There are many different events,

Omukae Chochin – Welcoming Lanterns

Omukae Chochin – Welcoming Lanterns

This year’s Gion Matsuri is starting. Little and large events are taking place around the city.  We can already feel the presence of a larger than usual number of people, mainly around Shijo / Kawaramachi streets.   The construction of the Hoko and Yama has...