Gion Matsuri is a week long festival that someone described to me as "Kyoto's version of Mardi Gras". Gion Matsuri started in the 9th century to appease the god of the Yasako Shrine, Susanoo-no-mikoto. It ends on Friday with a huge parade, but because of the weather forecast I chose to go on Wednesday!
The festival is full of food, music and floats made especially for the parade!
Here is a float that my friend's host sister's friend's brother (that's a mouthful) plays music for! This connection allowed us to see the float up close and personal, but unfortunately only men can go inside....alas....
The festival is frequented by locals and tourists alike, all dressed up in their yukatas (summer kimonos)! This is my friend Nicole in her beautiful Yukata!
The back of her obi came undone. Fashion emergency!
All fixed!
A few details.
Also got to try some delicious food!
This is called Tamago Senbei. Apparently they only sell these at Gion Matsuri. Octopus cracker with egg, puffs, and sauces! Delicious and fun to eat!
Kyoto is apparently going to be hit with a typhoon tonight/tomorrow! So I'm glad I got to visit the festival when the weather was still nice. I'm told not to worry about the typhoon that it's fun as long as you're inside...we'll see.
Hope your weekend plans are looking brighter than the weather!
Post by Tallulah Axinn
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