The floats, called ‘yamahoko,’ have unique designs for each district, with musicians performing on them. Following tradition, ”only men” are allowed on the floats.
Gion Grand Tea Ceremony – one of the traditional events during the Festival. Maiko – a young woman in training to become a geisha, typically around 15 to 20 years old – serves sacred water from Yasaka Shrine, matcha, and traditional Japanese sweets to the guests.
Festival stalls at the Gion Festival in Kyoto.
During the Gion Festival, major roads in Kyoto city were closed to vehicles, creating pedestrian zones that attract over 200,000 people.
Tsuji-mawashi - During the procession, the float is turned by human power when navigating street corners. Pullers at the front and back use ropes to rotate the float. Signals to stop or move forward are given by four men riding at the front of the float, who use fans and calls in accordance with tradition, following the lead of the conductor.
