On July 1st, 2025, the vibrant city of Kyoto kicked off its world-renowned Gion Festival (祇園祭, Gion Matsuri) under intense summer heat. The video spotlights the very first ceremony of the festival, known as the O-chindo no Gi (お千度の儀, One Thousand Prayers Rite). Held at Yasaka Shrine (八坂神社), this solemn ritual featured the appearance of Chigo (稚児), elaborately dressed ceremonial children from the Nagatohoko-cho area (長刀鉾町). Their participation marks an important blessing for the festival and invokes purity and good fortune for the events to unfold.

This annual ceremony is a major attraction not just for locals but also for a significant number of international tourists, as seen in the video. Visitors gather to witness these traditional rites, capturing the elegance of the chigo and the intricate customs that have been preserved for generations. Yasaka Shrine, deeply associated with the origins of the Gion Festival, provides a historic and spiritual backdrop that further enhances the cultural experience for those attending.

Gion Festival itself is held throughout July and is one of Japan’s most famous and historic matsuri. It features floats called yamaboko and numerous events, but the O-chindo no Gi is especially precious because it signals the spiritual commencement of festivities. The Nagatohoko-cho is one of the key neighborhoods involved, and its children, dressed in traditional garb, attract much attention. Yasaka Shrine, located in the Gion district at the heart of Kyoto, is easily accessible and offers visitors a chance to enjoy shrine architecture and learn about Shinto rituals in depth.

For travelers planning a visit to Kyoto during July, catching these unique ceremonial moments is a recommended cultural highlight. The area around Yasaka Shrine and Gion becomes a lively showcase of Japanese tradition, local community pride, and a captivating intersection of history and modern tourism. Whether you are a fan of walking tours, festivals, or simply want to immerse yourself in authentic Japanese religious and cultural events, this video provides an excellent preview of what’s in store during Kyoto’s festival season.