Toàn quốc 5 Important Cultural Festivals in Kyoto

Kyoto, the imperial capital of Japan for over a thousand years, is a city steeped in rich history and culture. With over 2, 000 temples and shrines, Kyoto is a popular destination for tourists seeking a glimpse into Japanese culture. But one thing that Kyoto is particularly known for is the numerous festivals that take place throughout the year. Here are the top 5 festivals in Kyoto that you shouldn't miss.
1. Gion Matsuri
One of the most famous festivals in Japan, let alone Kyoto. It takes place in July and is a month-long celebration of the Yasaka Shrine in Kyoto's Gion district. The highlight of the festival is the Yama and Hoko Parade, where elaborately decorated floats are paraded through the streets. The festival dates back to the 9th century and is said to have originated as a means of warding off a plague that struck Kyoto.
2. Aoi Matsuri
Held on May 15th every year and is one of Kyoto's three major festivals. The festival dates back to the 6th century and is a procession that makes its way from the Kyoto Imperial Palace to the Shimogamo Shrine and then to the Kamigamo Shrine. The procession is made up of participants in period costume, including members of the imperial court.
3. Kurama no Hi Matsuri
Held on October 22nd every year at the Kurama Temple, which is located in the northern part of Kyoto. The festival features a procession of men carrying torches up the mountain to the temple, creating a stunning visual display.
4. Jidai Matsuri
Held on October 22nd each year and is a parade that commemorates the city's rich past. The parade features participants in period costume, including samurai, courtiers, and emperors, and makes its way from the Kyoto Imperial Palace to the Heian Shrine.
5. Daimonji Gozan Okuribi
A fireworks festival held in August. The festival takes place in the mountains surrounding Kyoto and features five giant bonfires shaped like kanji characters. The festival is said to have originated in the 8th century and is a way of signaling the end of the Obon Festival, which is a time when Japanese people honor their ancestors.
With these festivals and many more, Kyoto offers a unique and immersive cultural experience that is not to be missed.

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