This video captures the vibrant scene of the Gion Festival’s Omukae Chochin (welcoming paper lantern) parade on July 10th, 2025, in Kyoto. Taking place along the bustling Teramachi Kyogoku Shopping Street (寺町京極商店街), the parade features participants carrying illuminated lanterns, creating a charming procession that draws the attention and admiration of both locals and international visitors.

The Gion Festival (祇園祭, Gion Matsuri) is one of Japan’s most iconic and historic annual festivals, celebrated throughout the month of July in Kyoto. The Omukae Chochin parade, a traditional part of the festival’s early events, is known for its colorful atmosphere and the appearance of cute children dressed in festive attire, enchanting bystanders as the group weaves through the urban shopping arcade. Foreign tourists are often pleasantly surprised and delighted by the sudden appearance of this charming parade in such a commercial, everyday setting.

Teramachi Kyogoku Shopping Arcade, located near central Kyoto, is a popular destination in itself—a covered pedestrian street lined with various shops, eateries, and local businesses. The parade’s passage through the arcade adds a special excitement to the district, demonstrating how modern commercial life and centuries-old traditions coexist in the heart of Kyoto. The visible participation of children in traditional roles and the involvement of tourists in the celebration highlight the festival’s inclusive spirit.

Kyoto, renowned for its temples, shrines, and seasonal festivals, attracts millions of tourists each year. The Gion Festival not only showcases the city’s deep-rooted culture but also provides visitors with unique and immersive experiences, such as witnessing traditional processions in unexpected locations like Teramachi Kyogoku. For those planning travel to Kyoto in July, the Gion Matsuri and its various parades offer a glimpse into Japan’s living cultural heritage.