On July 12, 2025, Kyoto came alive with one of its most anticipated annual events: the Gion Festival’s Naginatahoko float procession. The video, captured along Shijo Street, focuses on the dramatic ‘hikizome’ or trial pull, where the massive Naginatahoko float begins its movement. Both first-time visitors and seasoned festival-goers were mesmerized by the sheer size and intricate details of the float, accompanied by the lively festival atmosphere in the heart of Kyoto.

The Naginatahoko (長刀鉾) is an iconic float in the Gion Matsuri, which is one of Japan’s oldest and most famous festivals, tracing its origins back over a thousand years. This event marks the official start of the festival’s Yamaboko Junko, featuring large wheel-mounted floats pulled by teams in traditional attire. The parade route along Shijo-dori (四条通り) is a prime viewing spot, consistently drawing crowds of locals and international tourists alike. The video highlights the excitement among spectators and showcases the teamwork required to maneuver the huge float through narrow city streets.

Gion Matsuri is closely associated with Yasaka Shrine (八坂神社), which gave birth to the festival centuries ago as a way to ward off plagues. Its festivities span the entire month of July, but the grand parade and the ‘hikizome’ of floats like Naginatahoko stand out as peak moments. Spectators can see young ‘chigo’ (稚児, sacred children) riding the float, reflecting the deep cultural and spiritual roots of the event. Shops and restaurants lining Shijo Street also join in, selling festival souvenirs and street food such as yakitori, kakigori (shaved ice), and local specialties.

For visitors interested in Japan’s festivals, Kyoto in July offers an unrivaled cultural experience. Make sure to arrive early for the best vantage point, as streets fill up quickly on parade days. Besides the floats, take time to explore nearby historic districts such as Gion and visit Yasaka Shrine, which serves as the spiritual heart of the festival.