Why Did the Jidai Matsuri Start?
The Jidai Matsuri (Festival of the Ages) is one of Kyoto’s biggest festivals, but it’s actually quite new!
It started in 1895 (Meiji 28), when the Heian Jingu Shrine was built. This was to celebrate 1,100 years since the capital of Japan moved to Kyoto (Heian-kyo).
At that time, the Emperor moved to Tokyo, and the people of Kyoto wanted to cheer up their city. So, they decided to create a festival to show off Kyoto’s long history and culture. The idea was to make a huge parade where people wear clothes from different ages. This festival is a symbol of the Kyoto people’s pride and celebrates Kyoto’s “birthday” on October 22nd.
Meet the Stars of the Parade! Famous Historical Figures
The best part of the Jidai Matsuri is the Historical Procession (Jidai Gyoretsu)! About 2,000 people march, wearing authentic clothes from the past.
The parade goes backwards in time, from the newest era (Meiji Restoration) to the oldest (Enryaku Era). Here are some famous people you’ll see.
Ishin Kinno-tai Meiji Restoration Era
Yamaguni-tai Troops They were soldiers who fought for the Emperor. They march with drums and flutes—it’s very loud and powerful!
Bakumatsu Shishi Meiji Restoration Era Ryoma Sakamoto
You’ll see famous heroes who changed Japan’s future. Look for Ryoma Sakamoto—he has one arm out of his kimono!
Edo Women Edo Era
Princess Kazu-no-miya This line shows the beautiful fashion of Edo women. You’ll see a princess and a very high-class courtesan, Yoshino Tayu.
Heian Women Heian Era Murasaki Shikibu
Japan’s culture was born in this era. Murasaki Shikibu (who wrote The Tale of Genji) and Sei Shonagon are in the parade, wearing beautiful “Juni-Hitoe” (twelve-layered kimonos
Oda’s Troops Azuchi-Momoyama Era Nobunaga Oda
A strong line of warriors! It shows Nobunaga Oda and his generals like Hideyoshi Toyotomi marching into Kyoto.
The most important part is the Shinko-retsu (Gods’ Procession) at the very end.
This carries the spirits of two Emperors—Emperor Kanmu and Emperor Komei—in two beautiful palanquins called “Go-Horen.”
The Parade Route! 🚶♀️
The Jidai Matsuri takes place every year on October 22nd (postponed to the next day if it rains).
The route is about 4.5 kilometers long and takes about 2 hours to complete.
①Kyoto Gyoen (Imperial Palace Park) The starting point of the parade!
②Karasuma Oike Close to the subway station, easy to get to.
③Sanjo Bridge They cross the Kamo River—a great photo opportunity!
④Heian Jingu Shrine The parade’s goal!
Best Free Spots!
Kyoto Gyoen: If you go very early (before 8 AM), you can try to save a spot to see the excitement before the start!
Oike Street (near City Hall) This street is wide, so even if there are many people, you can usually see well.
Jingu Road (near Heian Jingu)This road is narrower, so you can see the costumes up close before the parade finishes!
5. Final Word: A Living History Book! 📚
The Jidai Matsuri is like a “living history book” walking right in front of you.
Seeing the great people of Japan’s past and their beautiful clothing is a very moving experience. It shows the great culture and love for history of the Kyoto people.
If you are in Kyoto, be sure to join the celebrations on October 22nd! We hope you enjoy this wonderful festival!
