Experience the Gion Matsuri 2025: Kyoto’s Iconic Summer Festival
Gion Matsuri - 2025
"If you’re visiting Kyoto in July, there’s no better way to feel the city’s vibrant spirit than by experiencing the Gion Matsuri (祇園祭). This legendary festival, which has been celebrated for over 1,100 years, brings the streets of Kyoto alive with stunning floats, traditional music, and a festive summer atmosphere you’ll never forget."
📅 Gion Matsuri 2025 Dates & Highlights
The highlight of Gion Matsuri is the Yamaboko Junko (山鉾巡行), the grand float processions that glide through the city’s main streets:
- Saki Matsuri (前祭): July 17, 2025 — procession starts at 9:00 AM
- Ato Matsuri (後祭): July 24, 2025 — procession starts at 9:30 AM
In the evenings leading up to each procession, don’t miss the Yoiyama (宵山) festivities (July 14–16 and July 21–23). Streets close to traffic transforming into lively pedestrian zones lined with beautifully illuminated floats, yatai (屋台) food stalls, and local performances.
🌸 Why Gion Matsuri is So Important?
The Gion Matsuri began in 869 as a ritual to appease the gods during an epidemic and has continued every year since making it one of Japan’s oldest festivals. The tradition, which centers around Yasaka Shrine (八坂神社), is still a vital part of Kyoto’s cultural and spiritual heritage today and acts as a living connection to the city’s past.
The festival’s magnificent floats (山鉾, Yamaboko) are constructed by Kyoto’s neighborhood communities. Many have been passed down for generations and are treasured as moving works of art.
🗺️ Insider Tips from Kyoto Riverview House Kyoraku
As a local host, we want you to enjoy Gion Matsuri like a Kyoto native:
✅ Arrive early: The best viewing spots fill up fast. We recommend getting there at least an hour before the procession starts.
✅ Stroll through Yoiyama: The evenings before the processions are magical. Explore the lantern-lit streets, taste local snacks, and admire the craftsmanship of the floats up close.
✅ Stay comfortable: Kyoto can be hot and humid in July, so wear light clothing, bring water, and be prepared for occasional rain showers.
✅ Ask us for directions: Our front desk is happy to guide you to the best spots to watch the parade or recommend local treats to try at the festival.
🏠 Your Perfect Stay During Gion Matsuri
Kyoto Riverview House Kyoraku is ideally located for easy access to the Gion area and downtown Kyoto. After soaking up the festival’s energy, return to your peaceful room just a short walk or bus ride away.