葵祭 · あおいまつり · festivals

Aoi Matsuri

An ancient festival of Kamo Shrine in Kyoto.

Definition

Aoi Matsuri is an ancient Shinto festival celebrated on May 15 at Kamo Shrine in Kyoto. Renowned for its elegance, the festival features a procession inspired by the Heian period aristocracy, where participants wear traditional clothing and carry offerings of ao (hollyhock) leaves. Aoi Matsuri highlights the cultural beauty of Japan and its historical continuity in religious practices.

Etymology

The name 'Aoi' (葵) refers to the hollyhock plant, which is used as a ceremonial offering, while 'matsuri' translates as 'festival.'