The “Jidai Matsuri,” held annually on October 22, is a major festival at Heian Shrine that began in Meiji 28 (1895) to commemorate the 1,100th anniversary of the capital’s relocation to Heian-kyo. Along with the Aoi Matsuri and the Gion Matsuri, it is counted among the “Kyoto's Three Major Festivals” and is beloved as a festival that brings Kyoto’s history and traditions to life today.

The highlight is the “Period Costume Procession,” which reenacts approximately 1,000 years of history, spanning from the Meiji Restoration to the Enryaku era when Heian-kyo was founded. Approximately 2,000 participants, dressed as historical figures and people from various eras, parade through the streets of Kyoto wearing splendid costumes and carrying accessories that have been meticulously restored using traditional craftsmanship. As you observe the changing attire, culture, and daily lives of the common people from era to era, you’ll gain a firsthand sense of the history Kyoto has traversed.

The procession departs at noon from in front of the Kenreimon Gate of the Kyoto Imperial Palace and proceeds toward Heian Shrine via Oike Street and other routes. While you can certainly watch from the streetside, you can also enjoy the spectacle at your leisure from paid viewing seats. Traffic restrictions will be in effect on the day of the event, so please check the latest information in advance before heading out.

Discover 1,200 Years of History in the Streets of Kyoto

Heian-kyo, the ancient capital that forms the historical backdrop of Jidai Matsuri, was established in 794 by Emperor Kanmu. The orderly grid of streets that characterizes central Kyoto today reflects the urban planning principles of this ancient capital, preserving a distinctive feature of the city’s history for more than 1,200 years.

This heritage remains part of everyday life in Kyoto. Addresses often include traditional directional terms such as agaru (north), sagaru (south), higashi-iru (east), and nishi-iru (west), which indicate a location in relation to the city’s streets. Another beloved local tradition is Maru-Take-Ebisu, a traditional rhyme used to help people remember the names of Kyoto’s streets.

Our hotel is also situated within this historic grid of streets, and our address includes the traditional term sagaru, offering a small but meaningful connection to Kyoto’s unique way of navigating the city.

As you enjoy Jidai Matsuri, we invite you to look beyond the colorful procession and discover the history woven into Kyoto’s streets, place names, and everyday surroundings.

Kyoto, where history and tradition blend seamlessly into the everyday landscape.
We invite you to enjoy the unique charms of this season during your stay at our hotel.