祇園囃子の音、熱波に包まれ宵山に４０万人Japan's largest street party - the three consecutive nights in Kyoto prior to the climax of Gion Festival, on July 17 - witnessed hundreds of thousands of revelers out and about each night.
The first of the "Yama" nights is Yoiyoiyoiyama （宵々々山）, and on that night, July 14th - Vive la France! - 250,000 Kyotoites went downtown to enjoy the sights.
The next night, July 15th, is known as Yoiyoiyama (宵々山) and 290,000 came out in their yukata this year.
The night before the parade on the 17th is called Yoiyama (宵山). On that night, 400,000 turned out. (Estimates are all courtesy of the Kyoto Police.)
On each of these three nights, much of downtown Kyoto is closed to vehicular traffic. Moreover, the massive floats that are pulled around the city on July 17th are put out on display in the areas they represent, all of which are close to Shijo - Karasuma.
Streets are filled with stalls selling food - yakitori (barbecued chicken skewers), taiyaki, takoyaki, okonomiyaki, traditional Japanese sweets - and carnival games for children.
Many come dressed in yukata (a light cotton summer kimono). Old and young come with fans, Japanese purses, and other traditional gear as they enjoy the evening strolling around the central part of the city.
Last, in certain areas. private houses open their entryways to the public to exhibit valuable family heirlooms. This custom dates back centuries and is known as the Byobu Matsuri, or Folding Screen Festival. © CycleKyoto.com
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