Kyoto is celebrating Gion Matsuri

Gion matsuri, Kyoto's most famous festival, takes place annually from July 1st to 29th. At the beginning, this festival was a goryo-e (rite to quell the wrath of vengeful Japanese ghosts) of the Shinto shrine Yasaka-jinja.

The first Gion matsuri was held in 869 in response to a devastating plague. It is one of the most famous festival in Japan and it is celebrated for the entire month of July. Many events take place throughout the month. The most important one is the parade on July 17. During the parade, you can see around 30 floats (yama-hoko) which represent different districts of Kyoto. Those floats are drawn up by men in white haori (sort of thigh-length kimono-like jacket). Many women, children, and men wear traditional Japanese outfits on this occasion. And you can also see geisha and maiko with white makeup on their face wearing beautiful kimono. 

Another important event of Gion matsuri is the Yoiyama from July 14 to 16. Many citizens of Kyoto wear kimono and the city is full of lights at night. Many floats are processing surrounded by flute, gong, and drum players.

Every year, many visitors gather in Kyoto to participate in the parade or see the city lights.