The Jidai Matsuri ,the Festival of the Ages,is a traditional Japanese festival held annually on October 22 in Kyoto, Japan.
In 2019, the procession of the Jidai Festival will be exceptionally be held on October 26 because the enthronement ceremony of the new Emperor takes place on October 22.
It is a festival enjoyed by people of all ages, participating in its historical reenactment parade dressed in authentic costumes representing various periods, and characters in Japanese feudal history.
Jidai Matsuri traces its roots to the relocation of the Japanese capital from Kyoto to Tokyo during the Meiji Restoration in 1868 as well as 1,100th anniversary of the relocation of Japan’s capital to Kyoto in 794.
It has been held on October 22, which is the same day that Emperor Kanmu relocated the capital, now known as the day as the Birthday of Kyoto.
The five-hour, two-kilometer costume procession begins in the afternoon, with approximately 2,000 performers dressed as not only famous lords and princesses but warriors, priests, politicians, merchants and commoners.
With that many characters, the Jidai Matsuri gives a very comprehensive look into the garment appearance of Japanese past.
Schedule for Jidai Matsuri
7:00~
Some Shinto rituals are held at Heian Jingu Shrine.
8:00~
Jinkosai ritual is held.
The spirits of Emperor Kanmu and Komei are transferred to two portable shrines each by one.
9:00~
Procession heads to the Imperial palace.
10:30
The foods and flowers for gods are dedicated in front of the gate of Imperial palace.
12:00
Procession begins from Imperial palace.
The dances are performed at Oiketeramachi at around 13:00, at Heianjingu at around 15:00.
16:00
Kankosai ritual is held at Heianjigu.
Where to Watch
9:30~10:00
＜Near Imperial palace on Marutamachi street＞ You can see the procesion well.
Around 12:00
＜The south exit at Imperial palace＞You can take a dramatic photo that the parade comes out from the gate.
Around 13:30
＜The east side of Kamogawa river on Sanjo street＞The less crowds.
Information
Date & Time:
October 26, 2019 / 7:00~16:00
*Postponed if it rains
Access:
・5-minute walk from “Okazaki koen mae・Heianjingu mae”(岡崎公園 美術館･平安神宮前）on the Kyoto Bus #5, or Raku Bus #100,110 at Kyoto Station.
・10-minute walk from “Higashiyama” on the Tozai Subway line.
Admission fee:
Free
*Except paid seat
Do you need more information?
You should receive such local information of Kyoto by an application “KoI APP”.
With this application, even if you don’t have Wi-Fi, you can find nearby stores and so on.
You can install the application from the following URL.
