Gion Matsuri (Saki Matsuri parade)
Japan· Matsuri · Kyoto
- Date
- Fri, 17 Jul 2026
- Local name
- 祇園祭 前祭 山鉾巡行
- Region
- Kyoto
- Matsuri
- Kyoto
Background
Kyoto’s Yasaka Shrine summer festival, often ranked among Japan’s Three Great Festivals. Events run all July; 17 Jul is the Saki Matsuri Yamahoko Junko (main float parade), starting in the morning around Shijō.
Impact on travellers
Not a public holiday. Downtown Kyoto (Shijō / Kawaramachi / Gion) is packed—hotels and transport strain. Ideal for the float parade; mind heat and belongings. Yoiyama nights just before are also very crowded.
Extra notes
Gion Matsuri spans all of July. We list the two core parade days only: Saki Matsuri 17 Jul and Ato Matsuri 24 Jul. Yoiyama, mikoshi rites and more—see the official schedule; times may shift slightly.
Sources
- Status
- ConfirmedChecked against official or authoritative public sources
- Last reviewed
- Sun, 26 Jul 2026
- gionmatsuri.or.jphttp://www.gionmatsuri.or.jp/schedule/
- gionmatsuri.or.jphttps://www.gionmatsuri.or.jp/
Cabinet Office national holiday table for 2026–2027 (祝日), including 振替休日 and 国民の休日; festivals remain curated travel picks.
How we review dataAbout this site
Travel reference only—always re-check the latest local official notices.