Man in charge of Gion Matsuri

These elderly men in kimono are so-called "higher ranking" people of the Festival.

Gion Matsuri (Festival)

Kyoto is enjoying the Gion Matsuri from July 1: festival ends on July 31. The highlight of the festival is "Yamahoko-junko" which takes place on the 17th of July. It is the procession of colorful floats through downtown Kyoto.


Groups of people started to build Yamahoko today. A total of 32 Yamahoko floats are presented in the festival. The 25 meter tall, 10 ton floats are made from wood and rope without using a single nail or piece of iron. (Yamahoko is the holy place for devine spirits.)

Rainy Season

Japan is currently in rainy season. After many rainy days in Kyoto, it's clear sky today and here is the beautiful evening glow.

Ayu (=Sweetfish) Fishing Season

Kamo river ayu fishing season opened on May 31. Ayu is one of the leading delicacies in Japanese cuisine.