This detailed walking tour video immerses viewers in Kyoto’s renowned Gion Festival (祇園祭, Gion Matsuri) on July 13, 2025, one of Japan’s oldest and most celebrated annual festivals. Filmed by VIRTUAL KYOTO, the video takes you along the busy festival streets lined with the grand yamaboko (山鉾) floats, providing an up-close look at both the floats themselves and the vibrant atmosphere that draws countless locals and international tourists.

The journey starts at Iwatoyama (岩戸山) and progresses through stops at celebrated floats: Funaboko (船鉾), Ayagasaboko (綾傘鉾), Toriboko (鶏鉾), Tsukiboko (月鉾), Hōkaboko (放下鉾), Araretenjinyama (霰天神山), Yamabushiyama (山伏山), Kikusuiboko (菊水鉾), Kankōboko (函谷鉾), and Naginataboko (長刀鉾), which is perhaps the festival’s most iconic. Each float is carefully crafted and steeped in tradition, with their designs telling stories from Japanese mythology and local legend. The video captures crowds admiring these moving works of art and the dynamic festival rhythm on Kyoto’s city streets.

The Gion Festival traces its origins back over 1,100 years and takes place throughout July, though the main Yamaboko Junkō parade is a major highlight. Visitors during this time experience decorated floats, lively processions, food stalls, and a festive atmosphere unlike any other in Japan. Shijo-dori and surrounding streets are transformed for the event, making it a core part of Kyoto’s cultural identity and a premier summer destination for festival goers.

Throughout the video, viewers also get a feel for the surrounding historical area of the city, lined with traditional machiya houses and historic shops. Beyond the festival, Kyoto is known for its countless temples, shrines, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, making this walk a compelling reason for travelers to plan a summer trip. The Gion Festival’s unique blend of history, art, and community spirit is perfectly captured in VIRTUAL KYOTO’s real-time coverage.