Aoi Matsuri

The Aoi Matsuri (Hollyhock Festival), also known as Kamo Matsuri, is the oldest of Kyoto's three major festivals, with a history dating back to the Heian period (794-1185). Its origins are linked to ancient divination rituals aimed at praying for a bountiful harvest and appeasing the spirits of the Kamo Shrines (Kamigamo Shrine and Shimogamo Shrine). The festival's name, "Aoi," comes from the hollyhock leaves worn by participants as adornments, symbolizing peace and prosperity. The most captivating part of the Aoi Matsuri is its grand procession, called the "Saio-dai-retsu." Approximately 500 participants in ancient attire, including nobles dressed as ancient imperial envoys, women in vibrant Heian period costumes (the Saio-dai and her attendants), and escorts in samurai garb, depart from the Kyoto Gyoen Imperial Garden, pass by Shimogamo Shrine, and finally arrive at Kamigamo Shrine. The scene is solemn and magnificent, recreating the elegance of Heian period nobility. In addition to the procession, various traditional rituals and performances, such as Kagura and Bugaku, are held within the Kamo Shrines, allowing visitors to deeply experience the charm of traditional Japanese culture. The entire festival is imbued with an ancient sense of ritual and a rich historical atmosphere, offering an excellent opportunity to understand ancient Japanese court culture and religious beliefs.