• Kyoto Gion-matsuri Festival

    The highlight of Gion matsuri is the "Yamaboko Junko" parade. The Yamaboko, or giant wooden floats, are assembled without nails in the traditional Japanese way.

  • Tanabata illumination at Kibune Shrine

    Every summer, there are illuminations at Kibune Shrine in Kyoto. Tanabata is a mythical tale of literal star-crossed lovers take place all over Japan.

  • Ukai Cormorant Fishing in Arashiyama

    Ukai is a traditional fishing method in which trained cormorants are used to catch fish.This type of fishing has history over 1300 years across Japan.

  • Mitarashi Festival at Shimogamo Shrine

    During the Mitarashi Festival, people soak their feet up to the knees in the Mitarashi Pond in Shimogamo Shrine, light candles, and pray for good health.