The Gion Festival in Kyoto is a vibrant tapestry of sights, sounds, and scents. The streets are alive with the rhythmic clatter of wooden geta sandals on cobblestones, mingling with the distant, melodic hum of flutes and the steady beat of taiko drums. The air is thick with the sweet aroma of yakitori and the smoky scent of incense wafting from shrines. Lanterns glow softly, casting a warm, golden light that dances on the faces of the festival-goers, their colorful yukatas fluttering in the summer breeze. As you weave through the crowd, the taste of freshly made taiyaki lingers on your lips, while the joyous shouts of “Yoiyasa!” echo around you, immersing you in this centuries-old celebration.
Thanksgiving In Kyoto
Finding turkey isn’t easy in Kyoto. Fortunately, we found a company in Nagoya that imports turkey (www.themeatguy.jp). This meant scheduling a delivery time and waiting at the house until it arrived, but it was worth it for a taste of home. Pies were made. Stuffing was consumed. A simpler, but satisfying way to give thanks for everything this year.
