Kyoto is well-known for its traditional and historic value and is home to many festivals. The Jidai Matsuri is one of the three most popular festivals in Kyoto and takes place every year on the 22nd of October (the anniversary of when Kyoto was founded). This festival of ages includes over 2,000 participants dressed in historically accurate costumes from various eras (while Kyoto was the nation's capital) as they make their way from the Imperial Palace to Heian Jingu Shrine. From the accessories, to the way that the clothes are dyed and put on, everything is done to be as accurately as possible. Many famous historical figures are also depicted throughout the procession.
The procession starts with the Meiji Restoration (1868) and continues in reverse order to the beginning of the Heian Period (781) so it was interesting to see the various styles from each period. The entire procession took about two hours to watch and although the participants walk from the Imperial Palace to Heian Jingu Shrine, they take a specific route, making their trip four hours. Can you imagine holding a banner, playing an instrument or sitting down in the same position for that long? There was an announcer talking the entire time about the various costumes, eras and notable people. Apparently, the same costumes have been used for over sixty years! I can't imagine how long it must take to dress everyone as well as to get the clothing cleaned. With over 2,000 participants, that's a lot! I was off to the side for the entire time instead of having a front view of the procession, but still manged to get some pictures. I hope you guys enjoy them! :)
Extensive grounds at the Imperial Palace
Reserved seating tickets for about 2,500 yen
The start of the festival~
Each of these banners had a specific time period written on them.
Not 100% sure, but I think this was supposed to be Oda Nobunaga
Tomoe Gozen, a famous female samurai warrior who was known for her bravery.
Started to rain the last forty minutes or so...
Thank you so much for reading and I hope you have a wonderful week! :)
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