The Saki Matsuri floats procession | Gionfestival.org

The Saki Matsuri floats procession July 17 brings the stately procession of 23 floats. This begins with the fully-decorated floats lining up along Shijo-dori near Karasuma-dori for a 9am start. Next, dozens of men heave them east to Kawaramachi-dori.

Next the floats turn north and everyone walks up to Oikedori. There the procession turns left, and heads west to Shinmachi-dori. Here the procession winds down around noon. Most noteworthy is the tsuji-mawashi corner turning. Since the float wheel axles don’t turn, it’s a remarkable feat. And a dangerous one. As a viewer, take heed: the corners are also the most crowded areas to watch the festival. Traditionally people believed that this journey of music and deities on the floats purifies the Kyoto streets. This prepares the way for the Yasaka Shrine deities to come on the night of the 17th.

Meanwhile, some local residents and companies share the spirit of hospitality even more. They display their own private treasures, in a subfestival called the byōbu matsuri or “folding screen festival.” It’s discretionary, serendipitous and a lends a bouyant feeling of generosity.

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