Aoi Matsuri
The Aoi Matsuri (葵祭), or the “Hollyhock Festival,” is one of Kyoto’s three most prestigious celebrations, alongside the Gion Matsuri and the Jidai Matsuri. Held annually on May 15, it offers a rare opportunity to witness the elegance of the Heian Period (794–1185). The festival features a grand procession of over 500 participants dressed in authentic aristocratic costumes, making their way from the Kyoto Imperial Palace to the two Kamo Shrines: Shimogamo and Kamigamo.
The festival’s origins date back to the reign of Emperor Kinmei (reigned 539–571). Following a series of devastating storms and poor harvests, an imperial envoy was sent to offer prayers to the Kamo deities. When the weather calmed and the crops flourished, the ritual became an annual tradition. Over time, it became so central to Kyoto’s identity that the word “matsuri” alone was understood to refer specifically to the Aoi Matsuri. The name itself is derived from the aoi (wild ginger) leaves used to decorate the participants, oxen, and carts throughout the parade.
The procession is led by an Imperial Messenger on horseback, but the focal point for many is the Saiō-Dai. Historically, the Saiō was an unmarried female member of the Imperial Family who served as the high priestess of the Kamo Shrines. Today, a local woman is selected to represent her, undergoing rigorous purification rituals before donning a junihitoe (twelve-layered silk kimono) weighing approximately 30 kilograms. Accompanied by her ladies-in-waiting, she is carried through the streets on a palanquin, embodying the peak of Heian-era aesthetic refinement.
Despite various periods of suspension throughout its 1,400-year history, the Aoi Matsuri has meticulously preserved its traditional form. The parade departs the Kyoto Imperial Palace’s southern gate at 10:30 AM, reaching Shimogamo Shrine at 11:40 AM for a series of private ceremonies. At 2:20 PM, the procession resumes, crossing the Kamo River twice before arriving at Kamigamo Shrine at 3:30 PM for the final rituals.
While the parade can be viewed for free from the sidewalks, paid seating is available at the Imperial Palace and Shimogamo Shrine for those seeking an unobstructed view. Early arrival is essential for free viewing areas, especially along Marutamachi-dori. For those interested in the formal arrangements, inquiries regarding reserved seats should be directed to the Kyoto City Tourism Association. See here for additional seating details (Japanese only).