Gion Matsuri: Ato Matsuri Yamaboko Parade

Gion Matsuri: Ato Matsuri Yamaboko Parade

The last post in this series about the Gion Matsuri in Kyoto is about the Ato Matsuri Yamaboko parade. The second parade is a bit shorter than the first, but not less interesting my any means.

Gion Matsuri: Ato Matsuri Yoiyama

Gion Matsuri: Ato Matsuri Yoiyama

After the Saki Matsuri concluded with the big parade, you would think that was the finale. In contrast, this marks the beginning of the Ato Matsuri cycle. In the following week the remaining 11 floats are constructed, exhibited and then parade through the city.

Gion Matsuri: Shinkōsai

Gion Matsuri: Shinkōsai

Today’s post is about the Shinkosai. At Yasaka Shrine four mikoshi (portable shrines) paraded through the neighborhood and then were carried down Shijo dori.

Gion Matsuri: Saki Yamaboko Parade

Gion Matsuri: Saki Yamaboko Parade

If one had to choose the highlight of Gion Matsuri, it would be the parade of floats on Sunday. After the floats had been constructed and exhibited, they are pulled through the heart of Kyoto.

Gion Matsuri: Saki Matsuri Yoiyama

Gion Matsuri: Saki Matsuri Yoiyama

Kyoto’s biggest festival is back after two years of hiatus. Today’s post will be about the festivities leading up to the saki matsuri yamaboko parade, the yoi(yoiyoi)yama.