Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Kyoto's Gion Matsuri Floats Invite Deities, Rider Feels Divine

7/19/2026

26 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Gion Matsuri festival, begun in the 9th century, is held this July in Kyoto with floats passing Yasaka Shrine, a former Buddhist temple honoring Gozu Tenno.
Katsushi Horikawa rides atop a 12-ton float and says it makes him feel close to gods.
Artisan Atsushi Matono erects the shingi, a sacred tree on a float, to invite the deity as Jacques Garrigues watches with his son, calling it a celebration.

1 of 1

Story summary

The Gion Matsuri festival, begun in the 9th century, is held this July in Kyoto with floats passing Yasaka Shrine, a former Buddhist temple honoring Gozu Tenno.
Katsushi Horikawa rides atop a 12-ton float and says it makes him feel close to gods.
Artisan Atsushi Matono erects the shingi, a sacred tree on a float, to invite the deity as Jacques Garrigues watches with his son, calling it a celebration.