Gion Festival 2014- After Festival Float Parade – Hands On Kyoto

I braved the heat (34°C) and humidity to take in the After Festival Float Parade for the Gion Festival 2014. It was the first time in 49 years since it was added to the month long Gion Festival. The highlights were watching the massive floats being turned and the first appearance of the Ofune or Big Boat float in 150 years!

Turning a traditional-style 10 ton float around corners

Bamboo planks used to put under massive wooden wheels of floats

About 10 tons of float

Bamboo planks are doused with water from these buckets and the massive wooden wheels slide along bamboo planks

The Pullers pull gigantic floats with a long thick rope

Rope is wrapped around front wheel and then pulled from other side

Ofune (Big Boat Float) 150 year return

Unfortunately went up in flames 150 years ago but rebuilt and appeared in Gion Festival 2014

Turning the corner for the first time

Yasaka Shrine Procession

I was surprised to see after the main float parade, there was a small procession from Yasaka Shrine. For the most part it was children pulling mikoshi, portable shrines and dressed up in some interesting costumes and kimono among other traditional clothing. However, there were also Geisha and a few other participants.

Kids dressed up as cranes

Young girls dressed up as Maiko

Geisha from Miyagawa kobu, a Geisha district renowned for the beauty of their Geisha. Despite the heat and humidity, they look elegant in their make-up and wigs.

Tagged 2014, After Festival, Floats, Gion Festival, Summer