Gion Matsuri - Kyoto's Biggest Festival
Gion Matsuri is one of the three biggest festivals in all of Japan. It started in the 9th century in Kyoto, which was then the capital city. A terrible plague raged through the city. One of the priests of Yasaka (also called Gion) shrine, wanted to appease the Shnto gods, so he lead the people in a procession through Kyoto. Soon after the plague ended.The festival is very popular now, with large floats or Yamaboko called Hoko and Yama. There are 23 Yama and 8 Hoko in the parade.
Photo gallery of many pictures from the Gion Matsuri parade on
July 17, 2004.
The festival is a month long event during July. The main event is on the 17th with the parade of the Yama and Hoko. Read here about some of the other Festival Events

hokoThe floats are built the week before the parade and are open to walk through during certain times

The Hoko is very heavy and has big wooden wheels. It takes many men with lots of energy to pull it.

Turning the float is no easy task, and is done with the help of wood strips..laying down strips for the turn.turning the Hoko

Yama

The Yama is carried on long poles by about 16 men. They are decorated with legendary figures. All Yama and Hoko are covered with beautiful tapestries.