Jidai Matsuri (Festival of the Ages)

About

One of Kyoto's three great festivals, Jidai Matsuri is the grand festival of Heian Jingu Shrine. It began in 1895 to celebrate the founding of the shrine and the 1,100th anniversary of Kyoto becoming the capital. About 2,000 people in costume form a procession some 2 km long, walking back through history from the Meiji Restoration to the Enryaku era, when the capital Heian-kyo was built, as it makes its way from the Kyoto Imperial Palace to the shrine. The costumes and props are faithful reproductions based on careful historical research, and the procession is run by Kyoto residents. At its heart are two palanquins carrying the spirits of Emperors Kanmu and Komei. You can watch from anywhere along the route, or book a paid seat at the Imperial Park, on Oike Street or on the approach to the shrine.

Sources

• OfficialHeian Jingu Shrine www.heianjingu.or.jp
• OfficialKyoto City Tourism Association (Kyoto Travel Navi) ja.kyoto.travel
• Reference時代祭「どんな祭？」｜京都観光Navi ja.kyoto.travel

Last checked: Oct 10, 2026. Event information is based on official announcements, but changes may not always be reflected here. Please check each official website for accurate details.

Other events this month

• Kitano Matsuri Shinkosai and Kankosai (Zuiki Matsuri)
• Kameoka Matsuri (Float Festival)
• Kurama Fire Festival