Aoi Matsuri (葵祭) is a traditional festival that takes place annually on May 15th (or the following day in case of rain) in Kyoto, Japan. It is one of the three most famous festivals in Kyoto, along with the Gion Matsuri and Jidai Matsuri.
The festival is known for its elaborate procession of approximately 500 people dressed in ancient court costumes. The highlight of the procession is the Saio-dai (斎王代), an unmarried woman who represents the imperial princess of the Heian period and wears an elaborate traditional costume. The procession also features two ox-drawn carts, decorated with flowers and other ornaments, reminiscent of the Heian period. The procession begins at the Kyoto Imperial Palace and winds its way through the streets of the city to the Kamigamo Shrine and then to the Shimogamo Shrine.
The festival is named after the aoi, or hollyhock, which is the emblem of the Imperial Court. The participants in the procession carry large hollyhock leaves and wear costumes made from silk and other fine fabrics.
The origins of Aoi Matsuri can be traced back to the 8th century, when it was established as a way to pray for good harvests and protection from natural disasters. The festival has continued to be an important cultural event in Kyoto and is now recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Aoi Matsuri is a unique and colorful festival that offers a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage. It is a must-see event for anyone visiting Kyoto in May and is a great way to experience the city’s history and traditions.
Getting there
By Train
- From Kyoto Station:
- Take the Karasuma Line subway to Imadegawa Station (10 minutes, 260 yen)
- 5-minute walk to Kyoto Imperial Palace (starting point)
- For Shimogamo Shrine:
- Take JR Nara Line to Tofukuji Station
- Transfer to Keihan Line to Demachiyanagi Station
- 15-minute walk to the shrine
By Bus
- From Kyoto Station to Shimogamo Shrine:
- Take bus bound for Kawaramachi Dori/Shijo Kawaramachi/Kitaoji Bus Terminal
- Get off at Shimogamo Jinja-mae bus stop
- Journey time: 30 minutes
- Cost: 230 yen
- For Kamigamo Shrine:
- Take Kyoto City Bus 4 from Kitaoji Station to Kamigamojinja-mae
Viewing Spots
- Kyoto Imperial Palace (procession starts at 10:30 AM)
- Shimogamo Shrine (procession arrives around 11:40 AM)
- Kitaoji-bashi Bridge (less crowded afternoon viewing)
- Kamigamo Shrine (procession ends around 3:30 PM)
Details
| Festival Date | May 15th |
| Source | https://ja.kyoto.travel/event/major/aoi/ |