What it is
The Jidai Matsuri, “festival of the ages”, is the youngest of Kyoto’s three great festivals. It began in 1895, when Heian Shrine was built to mark 1,100 years since the capital moved to Kyoto in 794. October 22 is the anniversary of that move.
The procession is a living history lesson. About 2,000 people dressed in the clothes of each period of Kyoto’s history walk from the Imperial Palace to Heian Shrine, starting with the Meiji era and going back in time to the founding of the city.
The festival at a glance
| Date | What happens |
|---|---|
| Oct 22, midday | Procession leaves the Imperial Palace: About 2,000 people in historical costume set out |
| Oct 22, afternoon | Arrival at Heian Shrine: The procession reaches Heian Shrine |
Which day should you go?
Oct 22
Watch the start at the Imperial Palace from a paid seat, or along the wide avenue near Heian Shrine.
What to look for
Every era
The procession runs backwards in time, from the Meiji Restoration to the Heian period.
Famous figures
Look for Oda Nobunaga, Toyotomi Hideyoshi and the court writer Murasaki Shikibu.
Costumes
The costumes and props are made with traditional Kyoto crafts.
Getting there & where to stay
| From | How | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Tokyo | Tōkaidō Shinkansen (Nozomi) to Kyoto Station | about 2 h 15 min |
| Osaka | JR Special Rapid from Osaka to Kyoto Station | about 30 min |
On the day. The procession leaves the Imperial Palace at noon and reaches Heian Shrine in the afternoon. Use Marutamachi subway station for the start or Higashiyama for the end.
Crowds. Paid seats at the Imperial Palace and along the route give the best view. Free spots fill by late morning.
Where to stay
Central Kyoto (Shijō–Karasuma)
Walkable streets, many restaurants, and subway and bus links to every part of the city.
Kyoto Station area
The most hotels and the easiest arrival by Shinkansen. Buses and the subway start here.
When to book. October is busy in Kyoto. Book 2–3 months ahead.
Times are typical fastest routes. Check current timetables before you travel.
Practical tips
- Rain. Postponed to the next day in rain.
- Same night. The Kurama Fire Festival is held the same evening north of Kyoto.
Glossary
Matsuri祭り
A Japanese festival, usually held for the kami of a local shrine. The word comes from the idea of serving and entertaining the gods.
References
- Heian Shrine, official website: Jidai Matsuri.
- Kyoto City official tourism site (Kyoto Kanko Navi): Jidai Matsuri.
Last checked 2026-10-12.