Latest Events in Kyoto Prefecture(August Updated)

Every year on September 9th, Kamigamo Shrine hosts a unique event: Kumo Wrestling and the Rising Sun Festival. The day's events begin with the Rising Sun Festival, where Shinto priests offer chrysanthemums, symbols of longevity and protection, to the shrine's deities. The Kumo Sumo Tournament then takes center stage, with neighborhood children participating in sumo bouts to please the deities while men dressed as crows perform ancient rituals. The event concludes with a chrysanthemum wine ceremony, believed to bring good luck.

Arashiyama cormorant fishing is a quintessential traditional activity of Kyoto's summer nights, originating in the Heian period and boasting a history of approximately 1000 years. After nightfall, fishing boatmen light bonfires and skillfully maneuver cormorants to catch fish on the water. The firelight reflected on the river, together with Arashiyama and Togetsukyo Bridge, creates a summer night scene full of Kyoto's ancient charm. Visitors can take a viewing boat to observe this traditional craft up close, or enjoy the tranquil and elegant summer atmosphere along the riverbank—one of Kyoto's limited-time summer experiences. The 2026 Arashiyama Cormorant Fishing Festival will be held from July 1st (Wednesday) to September 23rd (Wednesday), 2026 (Reiwa 8). The August 16th (Gozan Okuribi) event is only available for charter boat service (advance reservation required). From July 1st to August 15th, shared boat departure times are 19:00 and 20:00; from August 17th to September 23rd, shared boat departure times are 18:30 and 19:30. (The activity may be cancelled in case of severe weather such as heavy rain, floods, or strong winds.)

This historic shrine was originally located in Heijō-kyō (present-day Heijō-kyō), but was moved here after the capital was moved to Heian-kyō (present-day Kyoto). To commemorate the deity who moved here from Heijō-kyō during the capital's relocation, the shrine holds an inauguration ceremony and a Lantern Festival. After the ceremony, folk songs, dances, and Gagaku (traditional Japanese music) performances are held, and matcha (matcha tea) is served (for an additional fee). During the Lantern Festival, 600 lanterns lit with flint are illuminated. Inside the shrine, there are also performances of Noh drama, poetry recitations, traditional dance, folk songs, and Japanese dance.

This festival celebrates the bushes clover, known as "Hagi no Miya," on the shrine grounds. Approximately 500 bushes bloom on the grounds, and poems written on the bushes are hung. Various traditional performances are also held, including archery demonstrations, dances, and the Iaido martial art. A tea ceremony is also held during the festival.

The Kasuga Matsuri is an autumn festival held at Saiin Kasuga Shrine on the second Saturday and Sunday of October each year, dedicated to praying for good health and a good harvest. Two mikoshi (portable shrines) and five decorative halberds (sword blades), all crafted during the early Edo period, are paraded through the festival. The Tomoe-kaikan ("tomo-kaikan") at the Nishioji-Shijo intersection is a major attraction. The section of Kasuga-dori between Sanjo and Shijo is a pedestrian zone, lined with approximately 200 stalls and bustling with activity from morning till night.

As the largest anime, manga, and gaming event in western Japan, the Kyoto International Manga · Anime Fair (Kyomaf) will be held in September 2026 at Kyoto's cultural landmarks—Kyoto Miyako Messe, ROHM Theatre Kyotoand Kyoto International Manga Museum. This two-day annual celebration is not only a carnival for anime and manga fans but also a bridge that connects Japan's traditional ancient capital culture with modern pop imagination. This fair is a tailor-made carnival for every soul who loves manga, anime, and games. Whether you dream of witnessing your favorite voice actors shine on stage in person or want to get your hands on the latest original merchandise as soon as possible, this event will fulfill your expectations. What's more, while immersing yourself in the world of anime and manga, you can also experience Kyoto's profound traditional cultural heritage. This is a journey that connects passion and imagination, waiting for you to join. [Main Venue] Miyako Messe / ROHM Theatre Kyoto September 19, 2026, 9:00-17:00 JST (Last admission 16:30) September 20, 2026, 9:00-16:00 JST (Last admission 15:30) [Sub Venue] Kyoto International Manga Museum September 19, 2026, 10:00-19:00 JST (Last admission 18:30) September 20, 2026, 10:00-19:00 JST (Last admission 18:30)

What does that title signify— Is it "Substitute" or "The Chosen One"? The answer remains unclear. Yet, in this long-run tour starting in Japan, I can distinctly feel something different from before—an unwavering presence that belongs to ayu.

Legend has it that the Kannon (Avalokitesvara) of Kiyomizu-dera Temple transforms into a blue dragon, and drinks water from the waterfall within the temple grounds at night. Therefore, the Yaksha (demon) is also worshipped there. This event is held specifically because of this legend, and also to pray for the well-being of those who come to worship. This dancing blue dragon parades from Okuno to the cobblestone streets surrounding Kiyomizu-dera Temple. The blue dragon is considered one of the four sacred guardians of Kyoto. Besides the giant blue dragon, there are men dressed in traditional samurai attire, and the streets are filled with music and spectacular dances. It's truly amazing! Lunar New Year is on March 15th and April 3rd. Autumn is on October 15th, starting at 2:00 PM (2 PM).

In Ine Bay, famous for its boathouses, approximately 1,300 fireworks were launched simultaneously from a lighthouse floating in the center of the bay. The lights of the boathouses and the fireworks created a dazzling spectacle on the sea, showcasing Ine's unique and captivating scenery. Before and after the fireworks, a "Boathouse Town Night Light Show" illuminated the boathouses with lanterns, and a movie, "Little Animals' Big Movie," was screened on a floating screen in the sea. The 40th annual event was held on August 29th, and admission was free to the public.