The Gion Festival is back! It was held in perfect form after the pandemic.
All Kyotoites have been waiting for this day. This beloved festival takes place throughout July (quite a remarkable duration!) On its most vibrant days called “Yoiyama 宵山”, the heart of the town transforms into a pedestrian zone.
I’ll leave some quick tips for those planning a trip to Kyoto next year.
Do you like to know more details of Gion festival?
Please check Yasaka shrines HP or Kyoto Official Guide.
1. Be careful of summer heat
It is hot anyway. It’s better to avoid midday activities, but no worries! The evening after the lanterns lit up is rather a great time to take beautiful pictures.
2. Book the hotels early
The events are scheduled almost the same every year. The Grande parade and the eve on July 14 -17, It’s fixed by date. Hotels in the Shijo area will be fully booked. So an early booking is good for you.
3. Check the exact place
While named the “Gion Festival”, the place which has many floats and stalls is actually situated outside the Gion district. Just take a look at the map.
4. Experience the festival food
The signature food is “Shimidare butaman (a huge pork dumpling) “, but you need to wait in line for more than an hour…Many local restaurants also offer special treats for it. Let’s discover your own favorite!
Anyway, the Gion Festival is held only in July.
Immerse yourself in local culture and just … Enjoy!
Have you been there? Please comment