The weather has been dull lately. In Kyoto, Sakimaturi (前祭り, the first half of Gion festival) has just finished, and as of July 18, Hokotate (鉾建て, building the festival floats) of Atomaturi (後祭り, the latter half of Gion festival) has begun.

Ohfunaboko (大船鉾) which belongs to the cummunity of Shinnmachi (新町)-Shijo (四条) is a magnificent float who is always positioned at the rear guard of the procession. Among the ten floats of Atomatsuri, Ohfunaboko is the only Hoko (鉾), while other nine are Yama (山). The Hoko was restored in 2014 for the first time in 150 years since it was destroyed by a fire.

Hokotate begins assembling the frames, and then the traditional technique called Nawagarami (縄がらみ, tighting the frames with ropes) is performed by experienced craftsmen. It was so touching to see the skill and passion of artisans in such a close distance.

The Sakimatsuri has finished, but we still have Atomatsuri to come. There will be many related events until the day of the procession. Please enjoy Atomatsuri!

Why don’t you join our Gion festival tour with a former Maiko?

The tour for the first half was successfully finished. The Atomatsuri tour is to be conducted on July 22 and 23. Please visit the URL below for more details.

https://www.kyoto-information.yumeyakata.com/gionmatsuri-tour-19

Gion festival special tour with a former Maiko -Feel the atmossphere-

When: July 22 and 23
Where: YUMEYAKATA Oike Villa
How much:
6000yen plus tax (Rental Yukata included)
*The Yukata will be a free gift from YUMEYATAKA to the participants. Please return the Obi belt and other accessories.

2500yen plus tax (Withour renting Yukata)

Akane Kibune
Kyoto Expert Certification 1st Grade

#English #Kyotoexpertcertification