Gion fes Kyoto

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. For more see:http://www.op97.k12.il.us/cyberteen/2003/summer/gion.html

Koichi Saito, Imani Art Club, Japan