Core Kyoto — Season 1, Episode 10: Gion Matsuri: The Spirit of the Townspeople During Summer's Grand Festival

Episode synopsis

Gion Matsuri began as a prayer for the country's health when 66 halberds were erected and 3 mikoshi shrines were paraded through plague-ravaged Heian-kyo in 869. The 33 yamahoko floats in today's climactic procession on July 17 are "moving museums". Revived in 1952, the Kikusui-hoko float was adorned this year with a new tapestry in gratitude to the ancestors. The festival music is traditionally taught orally. The floats are assembled with age-old technics. The streets are alive with revelry on the eve of the parade.

About Core Kyoto

The timeless heart of Japan's ancient capital. Against its rich backdrop of culture and tradition, today's Kyoto continues to innovate and inspire.

More episodes from Season 1

• E1Kyo-machiya: Connecting People's Hearts
• E2Kaiseki-ryori : The Ultimate in Culinary Hospitality
• E3Buddhist Statues: Figures of Belief and Beauty
• E4Hanami: Kyoto's Cherry Viewing Festivities in the Spring
• E5Japanese-style Paintings: The Breathing World of Beauty
• E6Kyoto Lodgings: Hearty Consideration That Soothes Travelers
• E7Kagai: Kyoto's Flower District Where Elegant Dreams Bloom
• E8Aoi Matsuri: A Dynastic Festival in the Presence of the Deities
• E9Chanoyu: A Bowl of Tea Draws Hearts Together
• E11Shojin-ryori: Zen Cuisine as Training Within the Teachings
• E12Water Traditions: The Old Capital's Rich Natural Blessings
• E13Kyo-shikki: The Jet-black, Golden Beauty of Kyoto Lacquerware