A quick trip to Kyoto’s Kamogawa River during the Dragon Boat Festival: A guide to the summer charm of the ancient river

During the Dragon Boat Festival holiday, Kyoto's Kamogawa is an excellent destination to experience the ancient capital's style and natural beauty. This river that runs through Kyoto not only carries thousands of years of history, but also has become the first choice for tourists to experience Kyoto's slow life with its clear water, cherry blossoms and maple leaves on both sides, and unique "cool bed" culture. The following is a guide to visiting Kamo River designed specifically for the Dragon Boat Festival holiday. Highlights 1. Morning Stroll: Quiet Time Along the Kamogawa River In the early morning of Dragon Boat Festival, the banks of Kamogawa are shrouded in mist. It is the best time to avoid the crowds and experience the quiet beauty of Kyoto. Starting from Sanjo Bridge, walk along the river bank to Shijo Bridge. Along the way, you can see local residents walking their dogs, doing morning exercises, and occasionally you can meet artists practicing Taiko drums. If it happens to be the hydrangea season (June), the banks will be covered with clusters of flowers, which complement the ancient bridges and flowing water. 2. Cultural Experience: Geisha and Shrines that Travel Through Time • Pontocho: In the afternoon, head to Pontocho on the west bank of the Kamogawa River, which is one of the most representative flower streets in Kyoto. Take a stroll along the narrow cobblestone road, with restaurants and teahouses lining both sides. If you are lucky, you may come across a geisha hurrying to a performance. • Shimogamo Shrine: Take the subway to Shimogamo-jinja-mae Station to visit this world cultural heritage site. The "Jiusen" in the shrine is known as a spiritual place in Kyoto, and traditional ceremonies may be held there during the Dragon Boat Festival. 3. Food exploration: Kyoto flavors on a cool bed The Dragon Boat Festival coincides with the early opening of Kyoto's nare-dori beds. It is recommended to experience this traditional food culture: • Kyo no Yakiniku Chuhong: Located in Sanjo Kiyamachi, it is famous for its high-quality Wagyu beef and open-air seating. The aroma of meat and the river breeze are intertwined to create a unique flavor. • Izumimonten: The main store in Gion serves kaiseki cuisine. You can sit on a cool bed and enjoy the night view of Kamogawa. 4. Night Cruise on Kamogawa: A Romantic Encounter of Lanterns and the Starry Sky After night falls, lanterns on both sides of the Kamo River are gradually lit up, and the river surface is reflected with warm yellow light. It is recommended to stop near Shijo Bridge, or go up to the second-floor terrace of Starbucks Kamogawa, order a cup of Kyoto-exclusive coffee, and enjoy the summer night in the ancient capital. Useful Information • transportation: • Take the Keihan Subway Line to Gion-Shijo Station, and walk 5 minutes from the station to Kamogawa. • Cycling enthusiasts can rent bicycles at Kyoto Station, and there is a dedicated cycling path along the Kamogawa River. • Tips: • As there are many tourists, it is recommended to make reservations at the restaurant in advance. • The water in the Kamogawa River is very fast, so please do not swim in the water. #Dragon Boat Festival good places