Gion Matsuri
MatsuriKansai(Kyoto)
Annual eventDates
—
Venue
Yasaka Shrine and central Kyoto streets
Admission
Free
Crowd Level
Extremely crowded
Photos
Gion Matsuri: Kyoto's legendary month-long festival. Jul 1–31, 2026. Grand float processions on Jul 17 & 24. UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Gion Matsuri is one of Japan's three greatest festivals, held throughout July in Kyoto. The highlight is the Yamaboko Junko float procession on July 17 and 24, where 33 towering, elaborately decorated floats are pulled through the streets. Evening Yoiyama street festivals from July 14-16 transform central Kyoto into a lively night market with food stalls and lantern-lit floats.
At a Glance
- Type
- Matsuri
- Dates
- 2026-07-01 – 2026-07-31
- Venue
- Yasaka Shrine and central Kyoto streets
- Status
- Ended
- Crowd Level
- Extremely crowded
- Admission
- Free
- Annual event
- Annual
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I confirm the official status of Gion Matsuri?
Use the official source for the latest schedule, route changes, and cancellation updates: https://www.gionmatsuri.or.jp/.
What is the current status of Gion Matsuri?
The current listing status is ended. Last checked: 2026-03-10.
How crowded is Gion Matsuri?
The typical crowd level is extreme.
What are the highlights of Gion Matsuri?
Yamaboko Junko float procession on July 17 and 24; Yoiyama evening festivals with lantern-lit floats and street food; Shinko-sai portable shrine procession
Highlights
Yamaboko Junko float procession on July 17 and 24; Yoiyama evening festivals with lantern-lit floats and street food; Shinko-sai portable shrine procession
Access
5-minute walk from Hankyu Karasuma Station or Shijo Station on the Kyoto Municipal Subway. The float procession runs along Shijo-dori and Kawaramachi-dori.
Tips for Visitors
Arrive early for the July 17 procession as streets get extremely crowded. Yoiyama evenings (July 14-16) are the best time to see floats up close. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water for the summer heat.
Location
📍 Yasaka Shrine and central Kyoto streets
