Japan is an expert on cultural celebrations; an estimated 300,000 festivals are held each year, from small events to enormous celebrations.
Japan is an expert on cultural celebrations; an estimated 300,000 festivals are held each year, from small events to enormous celebrations. Gion Matsuri falls into the latter category, and as one of Japan’s biggest annual events, it’s celebrated for the whole of July. Originally held to pray for Kyoto’s protection from the plague, today the festival is part ancient tradition, part full-throttle street party.