Festivals Miyako-odori dance at Gion Kobu Theater.
Festivals are an integral part of people s lives in Kyoto.
The three most renowned festivals are the Aoi Festival in May, the Gion Festival in July and the Festival of the Ages in October. These events attract visitors from all over Japan. The Aoi Festival, with its colorful procession, evokes the aristocratic splendor of the ancient imperial court. The Gion Festival, tracing back to the early rituals of an agrarian society, is noted for its large decorative floats and unique musical accompaniment. The Festival of the Ages, first performed to celebrate Kyoto s 1,100th anniversary as Japan s capital, features period costumes recalling significant moments in Japan s history.