May 6, 2010

May 15th Aoi Festival


Aoi Festival reproduces the imperial processions to the shrines in ancient days .

An Imperial messenger and his suite in court costumes assemble at Kyoto Imperial Palace .
The festival is called Aoi ( hollyhock ) , because all the participants of the parade decorate their costumes with hollyhock leaves.
Hollyhock is believed to have all sorts of powers, including protection against lightning and earthquakes, and guaranteeing easy childbirth.


Route of the procession as below;
Kyoto Imperial Palace ( 10:30AM ) ---> Shimogamo Shrine ( 11:40AM )
Shimogamo Shrine ( 2:20PM ) ---> Kamigamo Shrine ( 3:30PM )

No comments:

Post a Comment