Kyoto is a region with a rich history of different festivals, and Aoi Matsuri is one of the most significant festivals in the region. Aoi Matsuri, Gion Matsuri, and Jidai Matsuri are considered to be the three most famous festivals of Kyoto, with the Aoi Matsuri being held annually on May 15. The highlight of the festival is the grand parade in which more than 500 people participate. If you too are interested in knowing more about the Japanese culture and Kyoto’s vibrant festivals, you’ve arrived at the right place!
Kyoto Aoi Matsuri: Significance, How To Reach, Ticket Prices, And More
Significance Of Aoi Matsuri In Kyoto
Aoi Matsuri is one of the oldest festivals celebrated in Kyoto, along with the Gion Matsuri in July and Jidai Matsuri in October. The word ‘Matsuri’ that is used to refer to many festivals today in Japan was earlier used exclusively for this festival, hinting at how old the festival might be.
The main highlight of this festival is the grand procession called Roto no Gi. In this parade, people dress up in aristocratic costumes dating back to the Heian Period (794–1185) and parade from the Imperial Palace to the Kamo Shrines.
Aoi stands for the Japanese word for hollyhock and the festival gets its name from this plant. Members of the procession wear hollyhock leaves and parade in vibrant costumes. The parade is celebrated with great pomp and you’ll find several people dancing, singing, and playing games.
This festival began in the 7th century, although its origins are uncertain. According to legends, locals believed that the deities of the Kamo Shrines were unhappy and were causing natural disasters. To please them and subside the disasters, the Emperor made several offerings to the gods. Eventually, this ritual turned into a full-fledged festival and Aoi Matsuri was born.
How To Reach The Venue Of The Aoi Matsuri Festival Kyoto
The Imperial Palace of Kyoto is the venue for the Aoi Matsuri and it is easily accessible via the impressive rail network in Kyoto. It is a short subway ride from Kyoto Station along the Karasuma Subway Line. You must get down Imadegawa Station and walk for about 15 minutes till you reach the entrance gate of the Imperial Palace. Alternatively, you can also get down at Marutamachi station but it’ll take you longer from here to reach the Imperial Palace.
Ticket Prices Of The Aoi Matsuri 2025
Aoi Matsuri does not require you to pay a certain amount to watch the procession, however, you can opt for paid seating at the Imperial Palace and both the Kamo Shrines. Alternatively, you can stand along the route to get a good view of the procession.
The parade begins at 10:30 AM near the South Gate and crosses the river in front of Shimogamo Shrine at 11:15 AM. Here, ceremonies are held for about two hours, after which the procession heads towards the Kamigamo Shrine. The head of the procession arrives here by 3:30 PM and the remaining ceremonies take place.
To watch this procession, you can choose to buy tickets that can cost anywhere between 1000 and 5500 Yen. You can buy them on the Ticket Pia website or purchase them on the day of the festival.
Highlights Of The Aoi Matsuri Procession
The procession, called Roto no Gi, is divided into two groups: Hon-retsu and Saoidai-retsu. The former is led by Chokushi, the Emperor’s envoy, while the latter is led by Saoidai, who substitutes the Saio.
Hon-retsu is a procession in which the Emperor’s envoy, Chokushi, takes the center stage. During the Heian Period, the police and government officials, mostly male courtiers, marched on horseback in the Hon-retsu. The same is followed in today’s procession.
On the other hand, the Saiodai-retsu involves the year’s Saio and she is accompanied by a large retinue of women dressed in bright costumes of that period. Saio was an unmarried, young female member of the Imperial family who served as the high priestess of the Kamo Shrines. Today, an unmarried lady from Kyoto is selected to serve as the Saio for the year and she must go through several rituals and purification ceremonies before the festival. Many people especially attend the Aoi Matsuri to catch a glimpse of that year’s Saio as it is a widely celebrated honor in Kyoto.
Summing Up
The Heian Period has left a significant impact on the cultural celebrations in Kyoto and Aoi Matsuri is a key testament. This festival, celebrated on May 15 each year, is a grand affair – we’re talking about selecting the Saio, organizing colorful processions, and arranging different cultural events. If you happen to be in Kyoto in May, make sure not to miss out on this one-of-a-kind cultural celebration of Japan’s rich history.
FAQs
What Are Some Of The Most Famous Matsuris In Japan?
Here are some of the most famous Matsuri celebrations in Japan:
- Gion Matsuri
- Hinamatsuri
- Aoi Matsuri
- Jidai Matsuri
What Does Matsuri Mean?
Matsuri in Japanese means ‘a festival’. These festivals often have a religious or cultural significance in Japan.
Why Is Aoi Matsuri Celebrated?
Aoi Matsuri is celebrated as it is believed that doing so protected the people of Kyoto from natural disasters and calamities.
