Kyoto is not just Japan’s cultural heart—it’s a living museum of ancient traditions, where festivals have been celebrated for centuries with stunning pageantry. If you’re wondering when to go to Kyoto, planning around its iconic festivals is a magical way to experience the city at its most vibrant.
Spring Festivals (March–May)
🌸 Hanami Season (Late March–Early April)
The entire city bursts into bloom during cherry blossom season. While not a formal “festival,” Maruyama Park and the Philosopher’s Path come alive with lanterns, street food, and joyful locals picnicking under the sakura.
🎎 Aoi Matsuri (May 15)
One of Kyoto’s three great festivals. Watch a regal procession of people in Heian-era clothing parade from the Imperial Palace to Kamigamo Shrine. It’s elegant, serene, and steeped in tradition.
Summer Festivals (June–August)
🎇 Gion Matsuri (Entire July, Peaks on July 17 & 24)
Arguably Japan’s most famous festival, Gion Matsuri dates back to the 9th century. Massive wooden floats, night markets, and yukata-clad crowds take over downtown Kyoto. Don’t miss the Yamaboko Junko parade or the Yoiyama street celebrations.
🔥 Daimonji Gozan Okuribi (Aug 16)
Five giant bonfires shaped as kanji and symbols are lit on Kyoto’s surrounding mountains to send off ancestral spirits during Obon. Best viewed from rooftops or riverside spots.
Autumn Festivals (September–November)
🏮 Jidai Matsuri (October 22)
Another of Kyoto’s top 3 festivals. A grand parade showcases over 2,000 years of historical fashion—from samurai to empresses. Begins at the Imperial Palace and ends at Heian Shrine.
🦢 Kurama Fire Festival (Oct 22)
Held in the mountain village of Kurama, this wild, fiery spectacle includes men carrying huge flaming torches through the narrow streets. A raw, primal counterpoint to the elegance of Jidai Matsuri.
Winter Highlights (December–February)
🎄 Arashiyama Hanatouro (Mid-Dec)
The Arashiyama bamboo grove and surrounding streets are lit up with thousands of lanterns for 10 magical days. Combine it with a daytime visit to Tenryu-ji Temple and an evening soak at a local ryokan.
If you’re visiting Kyoto in December for Arashiyama Hanatouro, consider exploring other “Best Winter Destinations in Japan” to complete your seasonal itinerary.
When to Visit Kyoto for Festivals
| Season | Top Festivals | Vibe |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Hanami, Aoi Matsuri | Elegant, floral, traditional |
| Summer | Gion Matsuri, Obon | Lively, festive, hot |
| Autumn | Jidai Matsuri, Kurama Fire | Cool, colorful, historic |
| Winter | Hanatouro, New Year shrine visits | Peaceful, romantic, spiritual |