Kifune Festival (1 June)

Set in the greenery of Kibune Shrine, this annual festival honours Takakami-no-kami, the god of water, with sacred music and rituals, offering gratitude for nature’s blessings and prayers for peace.

Nagoshi-no-Harai (Summer Purification Rites)

A centuries-old tradition to cleanse the body and spirit of impurities from the past six months. By passing through the chi no wa (sacred grass ring) at Kyoto’s shrines, visitors pray for good health through the summer.

Gion Matsuri

A festival that preserves 1,000 years of history and tradition, and is the most colorful summer festival in Kyoto. Various rituals are held during the month of July every year. The highlight of the festival is the gorgeous procession of Yamahoko floats, which is called a “moving museum.

Shimogamo-jinja Shrine Mitarashi Festival (Late July)

A ritual where visitors wade through the cool Mitarashi River, seeking purification and well-being during the height of summer.

Kyo no Tanabata (Early August)

Kyoto’s Tanabata Festival blends tradition with dazzling modern displays, featuring illuminated decorations and a magical atmosphere across the city.

Gozan Okuribi (16 August)

A breathtaking Bonfire Festival, where five giant fires blaze on Kyoto’s mountains, guiding spirits back to the afterlife and marking the close of the Obon season.

Make the most of Kyoto’s summer festivals with a stay at Park Hotel Kyoto, perfectly located for the Gion Festival.

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