Kyoto Jidai Matsuri

Jidai Matsuri is one of three the greatest festivals in Kyoto. Other two festivals are Aoi Matsuri and Gion Matsuri.Heian Jingu Shrine, KyotoOctober 22
*In case of rain, it will be postponed until the next day.Kyoto City Tourist Association 075-752-0227This festival began in 1895 to celebrate the establishment of Heian Jingu Shrine and to celebrate the 1,100th anniversary of the relocation of the captial to Kyoto. Jidai Matsuri is held every year on October 22nd which is the date when the Emperor Kanmu decided to move the capital to Kyoto in 794.

The main attraction is a procession which consists of 18 sections of about 2,000 people. As this festival is called the Festival of the Ages, the procession represents seven ages in Japanese history. The procession leaves for Heian Jingu Shrine from Kyoto Imperial Palace. It usually takes about 2 hours. (*refer to the schedule below) The colorful costumes and equipment people put on are accurately reproduced from each age.

The Course of the Procession
12:00 Kyoto Imperial Palace
12:30 Karasuma Marutamachi Crossing
12:50 Karasuma Oike Crossing
13:20 Kawaramachi Oike Crossing
13:25 Kawaramachi Sanjo Crossing
14:10 Sanjo Jingumichi Crossing
14:30 Heian Jingu Shrine

Spectator seats are set in three locations: Kyoto Gyoen Park, Oike Street, and Heian Jingu Street. It costs 2,000 yen, and reservations are necessary in advance.