Gion Matsuri: Wearing Yukata and Celebrating Kyoto’s Tradition with the World

If you’re looking for one of Japan’s grandest, most colorful, and unforgettable cultural experiences, you must visit Kyoto in July to witness the Gion Matsuri.

This festival is not just a parade; it is a month-long celebration rooted in over a thousand years of history. Gion Matsuri is a rare opportunity for travelers to fully immerse themselves—wearing yukata and joining the excitement of celebrating one of Japan’s largest festivals together with thousands of people from around the world.

A Long History Behind the Festivities

Gion Matsuri began in 869 AD as a religious ritual to appease the gods and ward off a plague that struck Kyoto at the time. Today, it has evolved into a spectacular summer celebration centered around two major parades: the Yamaboko Junko.

Yamaboko Junko:

The heart of the festival is the grand procession of towering festival floats (Yamahoko), each weighing several tons. These floats are decorated with beautiful tapestries, wooden carvings, and luxurious ornaments—like walking museums moving through the city streets.

Wear a Yukata and Join the Celebration

One of the biggest attractions for visitors is the chance to participate in the festive atmosphere. During the three nights before the main parade (called Yoiyama), the streets of Kyoto are closed to traffic and transformed into a massive night market.

Yukata Required:

Almost everyone—locals and tourists alike—wears colorful yukata (summer cotton kimono). Walking through the bustling festival streets in traditional attire is the perfect cultural immersion experience.

Street Festivities:

Enjoy festival snacks (yatai) such as yakitori or takoyaki, play traditional games, and admire the beautiful lanterns illuminating the Yamahoko. You’ll feel an unmatched collective energy.

Dancing and Sharing Joy Together

Although the parade is the highlight, the true atmosphere of Gion Matsuri is about togetherness. You’ll see locals and foreigners interacting, sharing laughter, and enjoying the warm summer nights. It is the perfect chance to experience the communal spirit of Japan.

Don’t miss this golden opportunity! Start planning your summer trip to Kyoto and become part of the history of Gion Matsuri.