The Gion Festival, which lasts throughout the entire month of July, is an annual traditional festival in Kyoto. It originated in 869 when a plague broke out in Kyoto. To pray for peace and the elimination of the disease, a grand festival was held. This festival gradually evolved into an annual fixed event and has continued to this day.
Known as three major festivals of Japan, the Gion Festival's highlights is “Yamahoko float procession” both during “Saki Matsuri” and “Ato Matsuri”. On these days, large, elaborately decorated floats parade through the main streets of Kyoto, showcasing traditional craftsmanship and culture. Additionally, three days before each of the two “Yamahoko float procession” parades, the Festival Eve “Yoiyama” are held. During these nights, the streets are lined with decorated Yamahoko floats illuminated by lanterns, attracting numerous visitors.
