2 events Updated 16 September 2026

Events in Kyoto

The fixed dates and the ones that move

2 events in Kyoto: the fixed dates and the floating ones.

A tall wooden yamaboko float lit by lanterns on a closed Kyoto street at nightWorth it

Gion Matsuri

Japan's most famous festival runs on fixed dates that ignore the calendar. The nights before the processions are the part worth planning around.

17 & 24 July Free to watch Downtown
KyotoExplore

Not to be missed

GionDowntown and Nishiki MarketJidai Matsuri
Costumed participants in historical dress in the Jidai Matsuri procession in KyotoIt depends

Jidai Matsuri

Twelve hundred people in twelve centuries of costume walk across Kyoto at noon. Two hours later a mountain village sets fire to itself.

22 October Departs noon Free to watch
KyotoExplore

Not to be missed

Gion MatsuriKyoto Imperial PalaceKyoto City Kyocera Museum of Art

The rest of Kyoto

Every other collection in the city guide, with what is in it.

Sights 6 Museums 3 Districts 4 Restaurants 6 Bars 3 Where to stay 4 What to eat 4 Things to do 3 Walks 2