Kansai · KyotoFestival
One of Kyoto’s three great festivals, the Jidai Matsuri sends a two-kilometre procession of more than 2,000 people through the old capital in costumes spanning over a thousand years of history.
Overview
The costumes move backwards through time, from the Meiji Restoration back to the Heian period when Kyoto became the capital in 794. Each era’s clothing, armour and objects are reproduced with traditional Kyoto crafts, so the parade doubles as a showcase of the city’s artisanship. It is centred on Heian Jingu, the shrine founded in 1895.
When and Where
The 2026 festival takes place on Thursday, October 22. The grand procession sets out from the Kyoto Imperial Palace at around noon and reaches Heian Jingu Shrine at roughly 2:30 p.m.
Getting There
The Kyoto Imperial Palace is a short walk from Marutamachi Station on the Karasuma subway line. Heian Jingu is about five minutes from Higashiyama Station on the Tozai subway line.
What to Expect
A stately, meticulously costumed pageant rather than a rowdy matsuri — more than 2,000 participants in historically accurate dress make it feel like a living history book unrolling through the streets.
Tips for Visitors
Arrive early for a free roadside spot, especially near Heian Jingu where the procession finishes. Paid grandstand seats (about ¥5,000–15,500) are worth reserving. Heavy rain postpones the event, so check the forecast.
Access and Map
| Date (2026) | October 22 |
|---|---|
| Route | Kyoto Imperial Palace → Heian Jingu Shrine |
| Access | Marutamachi Station (start) / Higashiyama Station (finish) |
| Admission | Free (paid grandstand seats ¥5,000–15,500) |
| Official site | Heian Jingu Shrine |
Source: Heian Jingu Shrine (official)
