Aoi Matsuri

The Aoi Matsuri, an ancient and captivating festival held annually on May 15th in Kyoto, Japan, embodies over a millennium of history and tradition. Rooted in the 6th century, this grand celebration pays homage to nature and seeks divine protection. The festival is named after the hollyhock (aoi) emblem that adorns participants’ attire, echoing the aristocratic fashion of the Heian period (794-1185).

At its heart is a majestic procession, a living tableau that winds through Kyoto’s streets from the Imperial Palace to Shimogamo Shrine. Participants dressed in meticulously crafted Heian-era garments ride on horseback, ox-drawn carts, and in ornate palanquins, evoking a bygone era. This striking journey is punctuated by rituals and ceremonies at shrines, where offerings are made to appease and seek blessings from the deities.

The Aoi Matsuri extends beyond reverence; it’s a living bridge between the past and present. It draws together communities, volunteers, and visitors from across the world to witness Kyoto’s history unfold. As the hollyhock-clad procession traverses Kyoto’s historic streets, it carries with it the essence of tradition, spirituality, and the enduring cultural tapestry of the city.