When we get asked about summer events in Kyoto, the first one that always comes to mind is the Gion Matsuri festival — one of Kyoto’s big three festivals. This festival is loved by foreign tourists and Japanese local alike, making it an absolutely enormous event every year. The most popular part of the festival is the “Yoiyama,” which includes both the early part of the festival known as the “Saki Matsuri” and procession of Yamahoko wooden floats. In our feature on the Gion Matsuri Festival, the Sharing Kyoto team introduces you to everything from the must-see events to the foods you absolutely can’t miss out on. Also, as Kyoto gets boiling hot during the summer, we’ve provided some tips about the right clothing and things to watch out for at the festival. Check out all four of our comprehensive articles on the festival and have a great time at Kyoto’s biggest and most exciting event of the year!