Special Seats Exclusively for Hotel Guests at the Gion Matsuri Festival

Experience the vibrant Gion Festival—Kyoto’s iconic summer tradition—up close from HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO’s exclusive viewing seats.

For the Saki Matsuri (First Procession), witness the dramatic turning of the Naginata Hoko float at the Kyoto City Hall intersection.

For the Ato Matsuri (Second Procession), enjoy views from a special area where you can observe the ritual of "Kujiaratame," the formal float order confirmation.

With an audio guide in hand, immerse yourself in the elaborate decorations of the floats—often called a "moving art museum"—and experience the full grandeur and vibrancy of the festival.

What is the Gion Festival?

The Gion Festival is one of Japan's three major festivals with a history spanning over a thousand years. It is a month-long celebration hosted by the Yasaka Shrine, featuring various events from July 1st. The highlight of the festival is the Yamaboko Procession on the 17th (Saki Matsuri) and the 24th (Ato Matsuri), which attracts many visitors from both Japan and abroad, enveloping Kyoto in festive excitement. The beautifully embroidered and decorated Yamaboko floats, known as “moving museums,” come together in this event, which is registered with UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage.

For inquiries or reservations,
please contact: +81 75 468 3100 (Hotel Reception) or email.