Japanese Summer: Hit the Gion Matsuri in Kyoto
With the deluge of cherry blossoms and sake pretty much over in Japan, they're looking ahead to their collection of summer festivals (and sake drinking).
One of the most famous is the Gion Matsuri held every July in Kyoto. Although the festival itself officially runs all month, the day you want to be there is July 17 when a line of thirty or so floats head out from Yasaka shrine to parade around the city center.
It'll be a crowded day full of drums and dancing and all the bright colors of Japanese traditions, but you should still make time at the end of the day for a sake or three. The good news is the festival all started to please the gods who cause fire, floods and earthquakes, so you should be pretty safe during your stay.
Related Stories:
· Gion Matsuri [JNTO]
· Blossom Gazing and Sake Drinking Delayed [Jaunted]
· Kyoto Travel Guide [Jaunted]
[Photo: skasuga]
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