The Aoi Matsuri, or Hollyhock Festival, is one of Kyoto’s most famous and oldest festivals, celebrated every year on May 15. Dating back over 1,400 years, this festival is rooted in ancient prayers for a good harvest and protection from natural disasters. It features a grand procession with over 500 participants dressed in traditional court attire from the Heian period (794-1185), including colorful robes and accessories decorated with hollyhock leaves.
The procession starts at the Kyoto Imperial Palace and makes its way to the Shimogamo and Kamigamo Shrines, two important Shinto shrines. The festival’s name comes from the hollyhock (aoi) leaves used as decorations to protect against misfortune. Watching the procession feels like stepping back in time to Kyoto’s imperial days.
