Gion Festival: A Cultural Extravaganza in Kyoto
Immerse yourself in the enchanting Gion Festival in Kyoto, an unforgettable celebration of culture, tradition, and vibrant festivities.
Experience the vibrant Gion Festival in Kyoto, a time-honored celebration featuring stunning floats, traditional performances, and a deep dive into Japanese culture. This festival, held in July, transforms the streets into a lively spectacle of colors, music, and age-old traditions, making it a must-see for every traveler.
A brief summary to Gion Festival
- 625 Gionmachi Kitagawa, Kyoto, Gionmachi Kitagawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0073, JP
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot for the float processions.
- Try local delicacies from street vendors, especially yudofu (tofu hot pot).
- Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking a lot during the festivities.
- Consider participating in local workshops to learn about traditional crafts and customs.
- Stay hydrated and take breaks at designated rest areas to enjoy the ambiance.
Getting There
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Public Transportation
From any location in the Kyoto countryside, you will first need to reach Kyoto Station. Depending on where you are, this may involve taking a local bus or train to get to the station. Once at Kyoto Station, take the JR Nara Line or the Kintetsu Kyoto Line to Kiyomizu-Gojo Station. From there, you can either walk or take a local bus to Gion. The Gion area is approximately a 20-minute walk from Kiyomizu-Gojo Station. Follow the signs to Gionmachi Kitagawa, which is where the Gion Festival is held.
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Car
If you are driving from the Kyoto countryside, set your GPS to 625 Gionmachi Kitagawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0073. The drive will typically take around 30-60 minutes depending on traffic. Note that parking in Gion can be limited and expensive, so it's advisable to look for a nearby parking facility, which may charge around 1,000-2,000 yen for a few hours of parking. After parking, it's a short walk to the festival location.
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Taxi
If you prefer a more direct route and you're in the countryside, you can opt for a taxi. Simply call a local taxi service or use a ride-hailing app. The taxi will take you directly to Gionmachi Kitagawa. Depending on your exact location in the countryside, this could cost anywhere from 2,500 to 5,000 yen. The journey may take about 30-60 minutes based on traffic conditions.
Discover more about Gion Festival
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Warai Clock Tower
0.0 km
Discover the Warai Clock Tower in Kyoto's Gion district, a historical landmark showcasing the city's rich cultural heritage and stunning architectural beauty.
Kahitsukan, Kyoto Modern Art Museum
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Kōdai-ji Temple
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Chion-in Temple
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Tatsumi Bridge
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Gion-Shirakawa spotlight
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Yasui Kompiragū Shrine
0.4 km
Yasui Kompiragū Shrine: A serene Shinto oasis in Kyoto, specializing in blessings for love and relationships, surrounded by tranquil gardens and rich tradition.
Tatsumi-jinja Shrine (Tatsumi Dai-myojin)
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Shirakawa Lane
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MOst beautiful
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NINJA VR KYOTO
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Hōkan-ji Temple (Yasaka Pagoda)
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Hokan-ji Temple / Yasaka Pagode
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Yasaka Kōshin-dō Temple
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Shrine
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Unmissable attractions to see
Yasaka Shrine
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Discover the beauty and tranquility of Yasaka Shrine, a stunning Shinto shrine in Kyoto, famous for its architecture, gardens, and vibrant cultural festivals.
Yasaka-jinja Shrine
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Explore the spiritual essence of Kyoto at Yasaka-jinja Shrine, a stunning Shinto shrine rich in history and culture.
South Tower Gate
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Discover the enchanting South Tower Gate at Yasaka Shrine, a vital part of Kyoto's spiritual heritage and a must-see for any traveler.
Five Shrines
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Yasaka Jinja Nishiromon Gate (Western Tower Gate)
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Explore the enchanting Yasaka Jinja Nishiromon Gate, a serene Shinto shrine in Kyoto, steeped in history and vibrant culture.
Gion
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Explore Gion, Kyoto's iconic geisha district, where tradition meets charm in a captivating blend of culture and history.
Chourakukan
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Discover the elegance of Chourakukan, a cultural landmark in Kyoto offering exquisite French cuisine and stunning event spaces near Maruyama Park.
Japan Kanji Museum & Library
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Maruyama Park
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Maruyama Park Japanese Gardens
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Kyoto Kimono Rental Rei
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Kahitsukan – Kyoto Museum of Contemporary Art
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石塀小路 Nene no Michi
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Discover the tranquil beauty of Nene no Michi, a picturesque walking path in Kyoto that connects you to the city’s rich cultural heritage and stunning scenery.
Hanamikoji Street
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Gion Kōbu Kaburenjō
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Essential places to dine
Teppan Tavern Tenamonya
0.1 km
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Wagyu Volcano OAGARI
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Gion Moriwaki
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Discover authentic Kaiseki cuisine at Gion Moriwaki in Kyoto - where tradition meets culinary artistry in an unforgettable dining experience.
Gion Nanba
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Chihana
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Experience authentic kaiseki cuisine at Chihana in Kyoto's enchanting Gion district - where tradition meets culinary artistry.
Gion Duck Rice
0.2 km
Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at Gion Duck Rice in Kyoto's historic Gion district - a must-visit for food lovers seeking unique flavors.
Hanasaki
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RIGOLETTO SMOKE GRILL & BAR
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Premium Pound Gion
0.3 km
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Gion Kurashita
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Experience authentic Kyoto-style kaiseki dining at Gion Kurashita - where every meal is a celebration of Japanese culture and seasonal flavors.
Yuba cuisine Higashiyama Yuuzu
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Hikiniku to Come (Kyoto)
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Gion Karyo
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Experience the art of kaiseki dining at Gion Karyo in Kyoto's historic Gion district—a perfect blend of tradition and flavor.
Nishikawa
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Sushi Gion Matsudaya
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
fine antique
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Ki-Yan Stuzio Gion Ishidan-shita Shop
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Ayanokoji Gion
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Kyo Sakura
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Kurochiku
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菊梅 SHOP GION KYOTO
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Souvenir Kyoto
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パゴン祇園店 -Pagong (Japanese Design Clothing)
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Maicoto
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Hashiya Kaede
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HAURA Kyoto japan
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Statue kyoto
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Studio Ghibli shop
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Maiko Antiques Kyoto
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Kyoto Kawaramachi Garden
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
CRAFT倶楽部京都
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Gion SAMBOA
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Bingo
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Talisker
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Bar鳴子
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Man in the Moon Gion
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Gion Finlandia Bar
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bar mousse
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Le Peu
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ROCK BAR CRUNCH
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in the Moon
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Bar Indigo
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Bar Liquor Museum
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The Common One Bar Kyoto
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Bar Prost
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