Gion Matsuri
Kyoto's 1,150-year-old festival. 32 massive yamaboko floats (some 25m tall) paraded through the streets July 17, plus three nights of yoiyama where the entire downtown becomes a paper-lantern-lit pedestrian zone with food and yukata-clad locals.
Practical info
Reserve seating (~¥4,000) for the procession. Yoiyama nights (July 14-16) are free + the magic. Wear yukata to fit in.
Expected weather during the event
Avg high 32°C · low 24°C · 9 rain days
Less-crowded alternatives
- Tenjin Matsuri, Osaka (July 24-25) — boat procession + fireworks
Pair with
Cities worth combining with this trip: