Traditions of Kyoto

The Gion Matsuri

All through July, floats called yamaboko, some of them towering and hung with tapestries, are pulled through the streets of the city in a festival that began in the ninth century as a prayer against plague. Neighbours build the floats without nails. On the evenings before the procession, families open their houses and show treasures.

At the table

Kyoto cooking is called kyo-ryori: soft, pale and seasonal. Kaiseki is the multi-course meal that grew from the tea ceremony. Tofu, pickles, yuba and matcha sweets are local. In summer, restaurants build platforms over the Kamo River, called yuka, and diners eat outdoors in the evening.

Signature traditions of Kyoto

Gion MatsuriThe great July festival of Kyoto.Japanese tea ceremonyThe way of tea.KaisekiThe multi-course seasonal meal.HanamiCherry blossom viewing.

Also part of it, and being written: Geisha (The traditional entertainers.).

A trail idea for Kyoto

1. Kamo River at dusk Walk the banks and watch the riverside tables fill.
2. Nishiki Market Taste pickles and tofu in the five-block food lane.
3. Fushimi Inari Shrine Climb through thousands of red gates.
4. Gion at twilight Look for geiko on the way to dinner, and do not chase them.