A Long Day in Kyoto: Gion Festival, Ikkyu-san and the Yamaboko Floats


Kyoto is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan. In fact, the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry rates it as number one among domestic tourists (Japan National Tourism Organization). The Gion Festival is Kyoto’s annual celebration of its three main gods: Daikokuten, Ebisu and Fukurokuju.

 



 

The Gion Festival is a summer event that takes place in Kyoto, Japan. One of the most popular features of this festival are the 33 yamaboko  floats that parade through the streets. In fact, many people come to see these yamaboko and only attend other parts of the festival if they have time afterwards. But don’t forget about all those deities! The Gion Festival celebrates six main gods who reside at Shinto shrines throughout Kyoto: 

Every year, the Gion Festival in Kyoto draws over a million visitors to see its famous 33 yamaboko or floats. Actually, the festival’s true luminaries are the many deities that it celebrates. The most celebrated deity of all is Kishimojin (the goddess of children), who was born from one of her parents’ eggs and later became guardian deity for both children and expectant mothers. 

The Gion Festival’s 33 yamaboko or floats are arguably its most famous feature. Actually, the Gion Festival’s true luminaries are the many deities that it celebrates. Ikkyu-san is one of these, a rather shady character from Japanese folklore who is depicted as an ascetic with a drinking problem and ties to women. This festival would not be complete without the revered Kiyomasa Sakai Statue

99 Views