Jidai Matsuri (Festival of the Ages) 2026 Confirmed

時代祭 — Kyoto (Kansai)

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The Jidai Matsuri is a living history parade: about 2,000 people in costume, stretching some 2 km, walk from the Kyoto Imperial Palace to Heian Jingu, going back in time from the Meiji Restoration to the founding of Kyoto in the 8th century. The costumes and props are made with careful historical research, which makes it one of Kyoto's three great festivals.

Background

The festival began in 1895, to celebrate the founding of Heian Jingu and the 1,100th anniversary of Kyoto becoming the capital, and is held on October 22, the city's founding day. The procession is run by citizens' groups from across Kyoto and covers eight eras in 20 sections, escorting the portable shrines of Heian Jingu's enshrined emperors through the city.

Getting there

The procession leaves from in front of Kenreimon Gate of the Kyoto Imperial Palace (near Marutamachi or Imadegawa stations on the Karasuma subway line) and ends at Heian Jingu (near Higashiyama Station on the Tozai subway line).

Tips

• The procession sets off at 12:00 noon from the Imperial Palace; allow a couple of hours for the whole line to pass any one point.
• Paid grandstand seats are sold through the Kyoto City Tourism Association.
• If it rains on October 22, the procession is postponed.
• The same evening, the Kurama Fire Festival starts at 6:00 PM in the north of the city — it is possible to see both, but trains to Kurama are extremely crowded.

Last verified against the official source: Sat, September 26, 2026