10 Best Places to see Hydrangea in Kansai

Hydrangea is a seasonal flower which is native to Japan and there are more than 50 diverse varieties of this flower. In Japan, a rainy season called Tsuyu starts around mid-June, and actually many people hate this season because of this gloomy weather. However, at the same time, you can feel many Japanese attractions which can’t be found in any other season, and Hydrangea is one of them.   The best time to visit is generally during the rainy season, from early June to early July.   Hydrangea flowers change color depending on the acidity of the soil. We will introduce spots in Osaka, Kyoto and Hyogo where various kinds of hydrangeas such as blue, purple and pink bloom. <Table of Contents> 【Osaka, Suita】Expo ’70 Commemorative Park 【Osaka, Ikeda】Kyuan-ji Temple 【Kyoto, Ukyo-ku】Umenomiya-taisha Shrine 【Kyoto, Nishikyo-ku】Yoshimine Temple 【Kyoto, Nagaokakyo】Youkoku-ji temple, Yanagitani-Kannon 【Hyogo, Kawanishi】Shounsan Raikouji Temple 【Hyogo, Kobe】Kobe Municipal Arboretum 【Hyogo, Rokko】Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden 【Hyogo, Rokko】Rokko Cable Car 【Hyogo, Rokko】Rokko Musical Box Museum & Garden MORINONE About 4,000 hydrangeas of about 30 varieties, including Western hydrangeas and Yaenoamacha, will be in full bloom at the Hydrangea Forest in the Nature Park of Expo ’70 Commemorative Park. Enjoy the fantastic space surrounded by diverse hydrangeas in red, blue, pink, etc.   Best time to view: Mid-June   ▼Check out this article▼ Expo ’70 Commemorative Park is a great place to visit in Osaka! Highlights Explained! Kyuan-ji Temple has a path of hydrangeas so overgrown that they hide people. The gradation of hydrangeas on both sides of the path is a feast for the eyes. Floating hydrangeas on the pond are also popular as they look great on Instagram. The “Ajisai-Ukabe” usually held from mid to late June is even more impressive than the “Hana-Chozu”(flower water with handkerchiefs)!   For a limited time, they are offering “paper-cut goshuin” featuring hydrangea motifs.   Best time to view: Mid-June to early July   ▼Click here for information on recommended restaurants and popular museums in Ikeda▼ 3 restaurants where you can eat plant-based food near CUPNOODLES MUSEUM in Osaka Ikeda At Umenomiya Taisha Shrine, visitors can enjoy approximately 140 varieties of unique hydrangeas from the East Shrine Garden to the North Shrine Garden. You can also appreciate Hanashoubu, which blooms at the same time of the year. Best time to view: Mid-June Located in the precincts of Yoshimine Temple halfway up the mountain is the Hakusan Hydrangea Garden, which boasts an area of 3,000 tsubo (about 1,000 square meters). About 8,000 hydrangea plants, including gaku hydrangea, color the entire slope of the garden.   Best time to view: Late-June   ▼Check this article▼ Kyoto Nishiyama｜An undiscovered sightseeing spot in Kyoto! Visitors to Yanagitani Kannon can enjoy a cluster of about 5,000 hydrangea plants, including Japanese and Western hydrangeas. The hydrangea corridor in the precincts of the temple allows visitors to view the hydrangeas at their leisure without getting wet, even if it is raining.   Yanagitani Kannon is famous for its “Hana-Chozu” (flower water with handkerchiefs). Many visitors come to the temple for Hana-Chozu, which is decorated with colorful seasonal flowers. Lace charms that gently reflect the spirit behind the creation of hanate-mizu are also popular. “Omoimamori”—which ties your wishes together and protects your feelings—make a perfect memento of your visit.   Best time to view: Mid-June to Late-June Shounzan Raikoji Temple is commonly called “Hydrangea Temple”. About 500 plants, including Western hydrangeas lovingly nurtured by the temple’s priests, bloom in large profusion. Take a stroll through the temple grounds and enjoy the different colors of the flowers.   Best time to view: Late-June The Kobe City Forest Botanical Garden is home to many rare hydrangeas, such as the fantastic Shichidanka flower and the clustered white Annabelle. The forest of approximately 50,000 hydrangeas of about 350 varieties is a sight to behold.   Best time to view: Mid-June to Mid-July At the Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden, located near the top of Mt. Rokko, 865 m above sea level, the “Shichidanka” hydrangea, said to be a phantom hydrangea, blooms. Characterized by its double-petaled flowers with overlapping petals, visitors can enjoy its pretty purple appearance. Also recommended is the “Hydrangea Garden,” where a wide variety of hydrangeas bloom, including the “Himehydrangea,” the city flower of Kobe City.   Best time to view: Mid-June to Mid-July The Rokko cable is a rare spot where you can enjoy hydrangeas while riding the cable car. The beautiful blue coloring of the hydrangea is known as “Rokko Blue”.   Starting from the hydrangea at the lower station of the cable car, more than 2,500 hydrangeas in total will be in full bloom from early to mid-July. The cable car has a lovely retro body, and from inside you can enjoy the view of the city of Kobe and the sea.   Best time to view: Mid-June to Mid-July Located on top of Mt. Rokko, where the temperature is about 5 degrees cooler than in the city, the hydrangeas are at their best about a month later than in the city, and more than 350 hydrangeas of more than 20 varieties can be enjoyed. The southern German-style building and the harmony with the surrounding nature provide an extraordinary experience and a peaceful space where visitors can appreciate the flowers in a more natural state.   Best time to view: Late-June to Late-July Flowering conditions may vary depending on the weather. Please check SNS for the latest blooming status.   ▼Check out this article▼ Enjoy “sound” in the great outdoors Rokko Musical Box Museum & Garden MORINONE Hydrangeas shine in the rain. Feel the change of the season by looking at the pretty blue, purple, and pink flowers.

＜Kyoto＞Gion Matsuri｜Highlights of Japan’s Greatest Festival

Gion Matsuri, one of the three major festivals in Japan, is a festival held at Yasaka Shrine, where people prayed for the removal of plague and misfortune as far back as the Heian period (794-1185). Various rituals and events are held over the month of July, and the city of Kyoto comes alive. In 2022, the festival was held in its original form for the first time in three years to carry on the tradition, attracting many people from all over Japan.     Many people may think of “Yoiyama” and “Yamahoko-junko” (The grand parade of floats) when they think of the Gion Matsuri, but there are many other fascinating rituals as well. We will introduce various highlights of the Gion Matsuri so that you can enjoy the festival to the fullest.   -INDEX- History and Origin of the Gion Matsuri What is Yamahoko? What is the difference between a yama and a hoko? Gion Bayashi “Konchikichin” Chimaki (zongzi), a specialty of the Gion Matsuri Saki-Matsuri and Ato-Matsuri Main schedule of the Gion Matsuri [The opening of the Gion Matsuri] ●July 1, “Kippu-iri” ●July 2, “Kujitori shiki” [Preparation for the Gion Festival] ●July 10, “Saki-Matsuri Yamahoko-Tate (Assembly of Yamahoko floats)” [Highlight scene of the Gion Matsuri] ●July 14-16, “Saki-Matsuri Yoiyama” ●July 17, “Saki-Matsuri Yamahoko-Junko” ●July 17, “Shinkosai” [The second highlight scene of the Gion Matsuri] ●July 21-23, “Ato-Matsuri Yoiyama” ●July 24, “Ato-Matsuri Yamahoko-Junko” ●July 24, “Kankosai” [Closing of the Gion Festival] ●July 31, “Ekijinja Nagoshisai” Quick Tips for Enjoying the Gion Matsuri The Gion Matsuri is a festival of Yasaka Shrine with a tradition of 1,000 years. In ancient times, it was called Gion Goryoe. It began in 869, when an epidemic spread to the capital of Kyoto and other parts of Japan, and three portable shrines and 66 spears were erected in Shinsen-en, a garden in Heian-kyo, to pray for the removal of the plague. As time progressed, the people became more involved, and gradually the festival element was added. In the 1300s, an autonomous organization was formed around Shijo Muromachi, and each town created its own Yamahoko float, which paraded through the city in its present form. What is the difference between a yama and a hoko?   Yamahoko is one of the floats pulled at shrine festivals. There are a total of 33 floats that appear in the Gion Masturi, each of which enshrines a deity and is believed to bring various blessings. The beautiful embroidery, imported textiles, and other ornaments on the floats are so beautiful that they are called “moving museums”. The “hoko” is paraded by 40 to 50 people called “Hikikata”. It is 25 meters high and weighs 12 tons. The hoko stands about 20 meters high on a roof called “shingi,” and the top of the hoko is decorated with the symbols of the individual floats. The “Yama” is paraded by about 20 people called “Kakikata” and is about 15 meters high, weighing 1.2 to 1.6 tons, and decorated with unique ornaments and dolls. It is decorated with pine trees called “Shinmatsu”. Gion Bayashi is the musical accompaniment for the Yamahoko procession. A performer called “Hayashikata” plays drums, flutes, and gongs from the top of the float. Gion Bayashi is also played at Hankyu train stations in July. The pleasant melody of “Konchikichin” is a typical Kyoto musical accompaniment that makes one’s heart beat with excitement. Gion Matsuri zongzi is not to be eaten. It is a good luck charm made of bamboo leaves to ward off disease and misfortune, and is only given out during the Gion Matsuri in July. Many people in Kyoto buy zongzi and display them on their doorsteps for a year. During Yoiyama, each town of Yamahoko also offers zongzi that bring good luck. Originally, Yamahoko-Junko was divided into Saki-Matsuri and Ato-Matsuri, but from 1966 to 2013, Yamahoko-Junko was held on the 17th. 2014 saw the return of Ato-Matsuri. The current Yamahoko-Junko is divided into two days: Saki-Matsuri on the 17th and Ato-Matsuri on the 24th. During the Saki-matsuri procession, the streets of Kyoto are cleansed of impurities and the god of Yasaka Shrine is welcomed back to the city. One week later, the procession is performed once again at the Ato-Matsuri to purify the shrine and return the deities to the shrine. July in Kyoto is all about the Gion Matsuri! Here are the main rituals in order. [The opening of the Gion Matsuri]   ●July 1,”Kippu-iri”   Kippu-iri is the first ritual of the Gion Matsuri, and from July 1, people pray for the safety of the Gion Matsuri in each Yamahoko town. In addition, Gion Bayashi rehearsals are held in each town. ●July 2, “Kujitori shiki”   The “Kujitori shiki” is an event to determine the order of the Yamahoko-junko procession. It is held in the presence of the mayor of Kyoto. The nine Yamahoko floats that do not draw lots, whose order of parade is determined by old custom, are called “Kuji-torazu”. The Yamahoko that will not be raffled off are as follows. Saki-Matsuri : Naginata-hoko, Kanko-hoko, Hoka-hoko, Iwato-yama, Fune-hoko Ato-Matsuri : Hashibenkei-yama, Kita kannon-yama, Minami kannon-yama, Ofune-hoko Every year, the Naginata-hoko floats lead the procession. Unlike other hoko, in which dolls ride, Naginata-hoko is the only one in which a real child ride. [Preparation for the Gion Festival]   ●July 10, “Saki-Matsuri Yamahoko-Tate (Assembly of Yamahoko floats)”   After July 10, visitors can watch the erection of yamahoko floats throughout the streets. The process of assembling the floats is called “Nawagarami”, a technique that does not use a single nail. Once completed, the floats are put up for the first time at the “hokohikizome” and “yamakakizome” ceremonies to make sure they are in good working order. [Highlight scene of the Gion Matsuri]   ●July 14-16, “Saki-Matsuri Yoiyama”   When the Komagata lanterns are lit and the sounds of musical accompaniment can be heard, the area is filled with a festive mood. At each Yamahoko-cho, good luck charms such as zongzi are given away. Depending on the float, you may be allowed to go up to the float to purchase the gifts. ●July 17, “Saki-Matsuri Yamahoko-Junko”   The Gion Matsuri is known for the Yamahoko-Junko, a procession of floats. The Yamahoko- Junko is a procession of floats used to clear the streets before the portable shrines are brought to Yasaka Shrine. 23 gorgeously decorated Yamahoko floats parade through the streets of Kyoto, starting near Shijo-Karasuma. The highlight of the festival is the “Shimenawa-kiri” (cutting of the sacred straw rope) by the Naginata-hoko and the “Tsujimawashi” (turning a corner at an intersection). Changing the direction of the floats, some of which weigh as much as 12 tons, is called “Tsujimawashi,” which means to change the direction of the floats using only human power. After green bamboos are laid on the road and water is sprinkled on them to make them slippery, the conductor on the float calls out a signal and a large number of Hikikos change directions. The scene is breathtaking, and when the direction is successfully changed, the crowd applauds. ●July 17, “Shinkosai”   Three portable shrines carrying the deity of Yasaka Shrine depart from Yasaka Shrine, and with shouts of “Hoitto, hoitto” they walk through the Ujiko community to the Otabisho on Shijo Street. This is an important event in which the gods riding on the portable shrines go around the city to purify it. [The second highlight scene of the Gion Matsuri]   ●July 21-23, “Ato-Matsuri Yoiyama”   The atmosphere in the streets of Yoiyama during the Ato-Matsuri is more subdued than that of the Saki-Matsuri. The stalls are also regulated, so visitors can enjoy the atmosphere of the original festival. ●July 24, “Ato-Matsuri Yamahoko-Junko”   11 Yamahoko floats depart from Karasuma Oike. The course of the procession is the reverse of that of the Saki-Matsuri. The last of the procession will be the Ofunaboko float, which will not be raffled off. ●July 24, “Kankosai”   The “Kankosai” is to send the three portable shrines carrying the deities that were welcomed at the Shijo Otabisho during the previous festival back to Yasaka Shrine. Around 9:00 p.m., the Yasaka Shrine quietly holds a ceremony to return the spirit of the deities to the shrine. [Closing of the Gion Festival]   ●July 31, “Ekijinja Nagoshisai”   Passing through a large cogon grass ring at Yasaka Shrine to pray for good health. The festival is the last event to conclude the month-long Gion Matsuri, which started on July 1 with the Kippu-iri. Saki-matsuri Yoiyama (July 14–16): Food stalls line the streets on the 15th and 16th, creating a lively Japanese festival atmosphere. You can also see the illuminated floats up close at night. Yamahoko Junko / Float Processions (July 17 & 24): Massive, beautiful floats parade through the city. For a comfortable view, booking a paid spectator seat in advance is highly recommended. Please note that major roads will be closed, so use the subway instead of buses to get around. Ato-matsuri Yoiyama (July 21–23): There are no food stalls during these days, making it the perfect time to avoid the big crowds and enjoy the authentic, peaceful atmosphere of the traditional festival. The Gion Matsuri is a summer tradition in Kyoto. This festival has a long history and is a wonderful opportunity to experience the traditions of Kyoto. You can enjoy “Yoiyama” and “Yamahoko-junko,” which you cannot miss. You can also enjoy the other rituals in a different way. Summer in Kyoto! Please take the Hankyu train to “Karasuma” and “Kyoto Kawaramachi”, the center of the Gion Matsuri!   ▼Check this article▼ 15 Traditional Events in Kyoto! Must-see for travelers, feel Japanese culture 11 Summer Events in Kansai! Experience and learn about Japanese traditions and customs 8 recommended Beer Gardens in Kyoto, Kobe and Osaka Enjoy authentic tea and matcha sweets in Kyoto! Gion Tsujiri Store & Saryo Tsujiri Cafe

Useful Tips for Traveling in Japan｜From Disaster Response to Train Etiquette and Temple Visits

Planning a trip to Japan? Here are some essential tips to make your journey smoother and safer. From reliable resources to use during emergencies, to proper manners on public transportation, and the dos and don’ts when visiting temples and shrines, this guide covers it all. With these in mind, you’ll be able to enjoy your trip to Japan with peace of mind!   Index 1. Disaster Preparedness You Should Know Before Traveling in Japan ・Helpful Websites & Social Media During Emergencies ・What to Carry While Traveling in Case of Disaster ・How to Protect Yourself in an Earthquake 2. Train Etiquette You Should Know Before Traveling in Japan 3. Bus Etiquette You Should Know Before Traveling in Japan 4. Temple and Shrine Etiquette You Should Know Before Traveling in Japan When you encounter a disaster in Japan, here are useful websites and convenient items that can help protect yourself. We’ve also summarized quick actions you can take to stay safe when an earthquake occurs. Japan Safe Travel Information Operated by the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), this website provides easy-to-understand maps showing information such as earthquakes, tsunami disasters, heavy rain, and strong wind warnings. It also offers a wide range of links to resources useful for travelers. Japan Visitor Hotline   (JNTO Call Center) A reliable 24/7, year-round call center designed to ensure the safety and peace of mind of international travelers in case of accidents, illness, or disasters. Support is available in English, Chinese, Korean, and Japanese. Phone number: +81 50-3816-2787 NHK WORLD-JAPAN The international broadcasting service of NHK, Japan’s only public broadcaster. It provides news and a variety of programs in multiple languages worldwide, while also introducing the latest updates from Japan and Asia, as well as Japanese culture.   In addition, JNTO operates social media accounts to share essential information for international travelers during disasters: ●X account: @JapanSafeTravel ●Weibo account: 「安心访日」Japan Safe Travel Mobile Battery Smartphones are essential during disasters—for checking information websites and social media, or using translation functions. However, right after a disaster, it may be difficult to find a place to recharge. Be sure to carry a mobile battery as backup. Mask From autumn through winter, the air tends to get dry, so it’s a good idea to carry a mask. It not only helps prevent throat dryness but also reduces the risk of catching colds or influenza, which can spread more easily during disasters. Snacks & Drinks In large-scale disasters where lifelines are cut off, or if you are stuck in a stopped train, snacks and drinks will be helpful. Filling options such as biscuits or crackers are recommended, while green tea or coffee can provide a refreshing effect. Choose items that can be stored at room temperature. When an earthquake occurs, immediately hide under a sturdy desk or table, protect your head with a bag or cushion, and wait until the shaking stops. Rushing outside in a panic is dangerous, as falling objects are likely. Once the shaking has stopped, carefully exit while avoiding hazards such as broken glass, and move to a safe location. In the event of a major earthquake, there may be a risk of a tsunami. If a tsunami warning is issued, head to higher ground immediately. Japan’s trains are punctual, running according to the timetable, and safe enough that you don’t need to worry even if you fall asleep onboard. While they are highly convenient and reliable, there are also unique rules that you may not find in other countries.   Please keep the following points in mind when using trains in Japan: Line up and wait your turn when boarding. Cutting in line is not allowed. Do not leave trash on the train; please dispose of it in the bins located at stations. Be considerate of other passengers and avoid talking loudly. Phone calls should be made in private spaces whenever possible—refrain from talking on the phone inside the train. Especially on local trains, please avoid eating foods with strong smells. In some sightseeing areas, buses are a convenient way to get around. However, in recent years, issues with foreign tourists’ bus manners have become a social concern in Kyoto. Please keep in mind that many people use buses for commuting to work or school.   Be sure to observe the following etiquette when riding the bus: Line up and wait your turn when boarding. Cutting in line is not allowed. Do not leave trash on the bus—always take it with you. Be considerate of other passengers and avoid talking loudly. Phone calls should be made in private spaces whenever possible—refrain from talking on the phone inside the bus. Aisles are narrow, so please avoid bringing large luggage (such as suitcases). The space inside the bus is limited, so please avoid eating foods with strong smells.   In Kyoto, buses are the main form of transportation, but bringing a suitcase onboard is not recommended. If you have a suitcase, the “Hankyu Tourist Information Center Kyoto Kawaramachi” offers a same-day delivery service that is very convenient. https://enjoy-osaka-kyoto-kobe.com/ja/article/a/baggage-service-kyoto/ Shrines and temples are not originally sightseeing spots but religious facilities. When visiting, please keep in mind the following points to show proper respect and observe good manners.   Etiquette at Japanese Shrines 1. Avoid speaking loudly. A shrine is a sacred place. Once you pass through the torii gate, you are in a sacred area. Refrain from making noise and be respectful.   2. Do not eat or drink within the precincts. Many shrines prohibit eating, drinking, or bringing food onto the grounds. Please be mindful.   3. Do not touch the buildings or torii. Leaning on, climbing, or touching the torii is strictly forbidden. Treat them as sacred objects.   4. Check the photography rules. Shrines are places of ritual and prayer. Many areas prohibit photography, so always confirm the rules before taking pictures.   5. Do not walk in the center of the approach. The center path is considered the passage of the deities. Walk along the sides instead.   6. How to pray. Bow once at the torii, purify your hands at the temizuya (water basin), and at the main shrine, follow the standard ritual: two bows, two claps, one bow (ni-hai, ni-hakushu, ippai).     Etiquette at Japanese Temples 1. Avoid speaking loudly. A temple is a sacred place. Once you pass through the main gate (sanmon), you are in a holy area. Keep quiet and respectful.   2. Do not eat or drink within the precincts. Eating, drinking, or bringing food into the grounds is often prohibited.   3. Do not touch the statues. Touching or leaning on Buddhist statues is forbidden. They must be treated with reverence.   4. Check the photography rules. At the main hall or in front of the principal image (honzon), photography is often prohibited. Always follow posted signs.   5. How to pray. Bow once at the gate, purify your hands at the temizuya, and at the main hall, put your hands together silently in prayer without clapping.     How to Tell Shrines and Temples Apart Shrines: Often have a torii gate and guardian lion-dogs (komainu). Temples: Typically feature a main gate (sanmon), Buddhist statues, or pagodas.   By observing proper etiquette and manners, you can fully appreciate the solemn and spiritual atmosphere of shrines and temples during your visit.

[2026 Latest] DRUM TAO THEATER KYOTO Review: Ticket Booking, Highlights & Access

Wondering how to spend your evening in Kyoto? Beyond temple visits and gourmet dining, immersive entertainment experiences have recently become one of the city’s biggest attractions. One of the top recommendations is DRUM TAO, the world-renowned taiko drum performance group. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the newly opened DRUM TAO THEATER KYOTO, which debuted in Kyoto in 2026, from how to book tickets to the show highlights and access information. So even first-time visitors can enjoy the experience with confidence.   Index 1. What is DRUM TAO? 2. How to Book Tickets for DRUM TAO THEATER KYOTO 3. DRUM TAO THEATER KYOTO Review & Highlights 4. Beyond the Show: Food & Drinks, Exclusive Experiences, Gift Shop 5. Access to DRUM TAO THEATER KYOTO: How to Get There DRUM TAO is a performance group that combines traditional Japanese taiko drumming with dance, lighting, and theatrical stage production. More than just a traditional art form, it has evolved into a modern style of “Japanese drumming entertainment” that has earned acclaim around the world. The biggest appeal of the dedicated venue, DRUM TAO THEATER KYOTO, is its intimate setting, where audiences can experience the power and energy of the performance up close. The combination of thunderous taiko rhythms, highly trained physical performance, and meticulously crafted stage effects creates a fully immersive show that can be enjoyed even without understanding Japanese—making it an ideal experience for first-time visitors to Japan. Ticket Reservations & Show Schedule   It’s highly recommended to purchase tickets in advance through the official website. Popular performances often sell out, especially on weekends and during peak travel seasons, so booking early is the safest option.   The theater operates with two performances per day, making it a popular evening activity to end a day of sightseeing in Kyoto. Please note that the theater is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, so be sure to check the schedule in advance. ・1st Show: Starts at 7:00 PM (Doors open at 6:15 PM) ・2nd Show: Starts at 9:00 PM (Doors open at 8:15 PM) ・Performance Length: Approximately 40 minutes ・Seating: Reserved seating only (includes one drink) Each show is produced with a different concept, allowing you to choose the experience that best matches your travel style.   ・1st Show: “HIBIKI” An energetic and interactive performance designed to excite the entire audience. With an atmosphere reminiscent of a traditional Japanese festival, it’s especially recommended for friends and families traveling together. ・2nd Show: “YUME” A more幻想的 and artistic night performance featuring striking lighting and stage effects. Its romantic and sophisticated atmosphere makes it ideal for couples and adult travelers.   For those seeking an even more memorable experience, premium seats are also available. These include exclusive souvenirs such as an original happi coat and limited-edition gifts personally handed to you by the performers—popular keepsakes to remember your trip to Japan. One of the first things you’ll notice during the performance is the overwhelming impact of the sound and vibrations. Each strike of the taiko drum feels powerful enough to shake the air itself—a theater experience that resonates deep within your body.   The show masterfully shifts between dynamic, high-energy scenes and delicate moments wrapped in silence, instantly drawing the audience into its emotional world. In the background, iconic Japanese landscapes such as bamboo groves and cherry blossoms are projected across the stage, creating an immersive atmosphere that feels as though you’ve stepped into a story. In addition to taiko drums, traditional Japanese instruments such as flutes and koto are also incorporated, adding depth and richness to the music. The costumes, designed by renowned Japanese designer Junko Koshino, blend traditional Japanese aesthetics with sophisticated modern elements that harmonize beautifully with Kyoto’s atmosphere. The performers’ dynamic choreography, striking costumes, and meticulously crafted lighting effects come together to create a stage production with the quality of a true performing art masterpiece.   Because the performance does not rely on language or dialogue, it can be enjoyed intuitively by audiences from around the world. Rather than simply watching a show, it feels like a fully immersive experience—and before you know it, the time flies by. LOUNGE / BAR At the theater’s lounge and bar, you can relax before the show while enjoying light meals and drinks. The menu also features beverages inspired by Japanese flavors and aesthetics, creating the perfect atmosphere to set the mood before the performance begins. SKY TERRACE The open-air rooftop area offers breathtaking views of Kyoto’s cityscape and nighttime scenery. Surrounded by a refreshing evening breeze, it’s the perfect place to unwind with a special drink before or after the show. GIFT SHOP The theater also features a gift shop offering exclusive original merchandise available only here. From memorable souvenirs to unique keepsakes inspired by the performance, it’s the perfect place to find something special to remember your trip. DRUM TAO THEATER KYOTO is located inside KYOTO AVANTI, a commercial complex just steps from Kyoto Station, making it easy to find even for first-time visitors.   The simplest route is from the Hachijo East Exit of JR Kyoto Station. After exiting the station, simply cross the street and enter the Avanti building directly in front of you. From there, take the east-side elevator on the first floor up to the theater, which is located on the 9th floor. The building is also directly connected via an underground passageway, allowing convenient access regardless of the weather. Its location near the Shinkansen platforms and airport bus terminals also makes it easy to fit into your itinerary on either your arrival or departure day. If you’re looking to spend a truly special evening in Kyoto, DRUM TAO THEATER KYOTO is an experience not to be missed. Blending tradition with modern performance, its dynamic stage production offers a memorable experience that goes beyond ordinary sightseeing.   The show is designed to be enjoyed even by first-time visitors to Japan, making it a perfect addition to your evening plans while traveling in Kyoto.

9 Summer Events in Kansai (Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe area)! Experience and learn about Japanese traditions and customs

Praying with one’s feet in the river water and dancing in a circle! At first glance, Kansai’s summer events and rites may seem strange. Traditional events are filled with wisdom and ingenuity to keep you cool and comfortable during the hot summer.   Please enjoy your trip to Kansai with events and rites that can only be experienced in summer!   １．[Kyoto] Various places in Kyoto City / Gion Festival ２．[Kyoto] Matsuo-taisha Shrine / Wind-bell Prayer: Sound of Good Luck and Disaster Elimination ３．[Osaka] Mizunase Jingu Shrine / Wind of Invitation ４．[Kyoto] Shops along the Kamo River in Kyoto City / Kawayuka(Riverside Terrace) ５．[Osaka] Minoh Waterfall / Summer Festa Minoh Park ６．[Osaka] Umeda area / Umeda Yukata Matsuri (Yukata Festival) ７．[Nishinomiya, Hyogo] Nishinomiya Shrine / Summer Ebisu ８．[Kyoto] Shimogamo-jinja Shrine / Mitarashi Festival ９．[Kyoto] Various places in Kyoto City / Kyoto Gozan Okuribi (Bonfire on Five Mountains) Period: Tuesday, July 1, 2026 – Thursday, July 31, 2026   If you are traveling to Kyoto in the summer, a visit to the Kyoto Gion Festival is a must! You will be overwhelmed by the gorgeous floats!   For more information, check out the article below! ＜Kyoto＞Gion Matsuri｜Highlights of Japan’s Greatest Festival Period: Usually from June 1 to September 1   About 800 wind chimes will be displayed on the ceiling of the Matsunoo Taisha Shrine awarding office and throughout the shrine grounds. It is said that the tones of the wind chimes comfort the gods and purify sins and impurities. At Matsunoo Taisha Shrine, you can write your wish on a strip of paper. Let your wish be delivered to the god. Period: Usually July – early September   A wind-bell prayer will also be held at the Mizunase Jingu Shrine. Passing through the wind chimes, visitors can listen to the cool sound of the light chirping of the wind chimes. During the period, the shrine will also be decorated with kazaguruma, toys that rotate with the wind, and illuminated with lanterns. Period: May 1 – October 15, 2026 (period varies by store)   “Kawayuka” riverside terrace is one of the traditional summer cultures of Kyoto. It is a place to enjoy the cool air while dining on delicious food at outdoor terrace seats that jut out into the Kamo River. Visitors can enjoy a variety of gourmet foods at 87 restaurants ranging from Japanese cuisine to Italian and French cuisine. Among them, “B STORE 1st” opens from 8:00 a.m. as riverside terrace morning. Why not start your day with  “Kawayuka” riverside terrace?   ▼Check this article▼ 7 Best Breakfasts in Kyoto | Near JR Kyoto Station and Popular Tourist Attractions Top 8 Kawadoko River Dining Restaurants in Kyoto (Kamogawa, Kibune & Takao) Period: Usually mid-July to early September   Minoh Waterfalls and other famous spots in Minoh Park are illuminated in this popular event!   Also, until November 3, 2026, “Kawayuka (riverside terrace)” will be held at riverside restaurants in Minoh Park, where you can enjoy kaiseki cuisine while enjoying the sounds of nature. Enjoy a quaint moment (reservations required).   ▼Check this article▼ 8 recommended gourmet restaurants in Minoh Waterfall! Cafes & Shops to stop by for sightseeing Note on how to get to Minoh Waterfall! Points that international travelers should know before going there Main Content Dates: The dates for 2026 have not yet been announced.   Umeda Yukata Matsuri (Yukata Festival) is a large-scale event held in the Umeda area of Osaka, where you can enjoy Japanese summer culture all at once! Umeda Yukata Matsuri (Yukata Festival)  will feature a traditional “Bon Odori Dance”, “Uchimizu” (sprinkling water on the streets to cool off), and “fairs” like typical of summer festivals. The entire town will be decorated in summer! Period: July 7, 2026; July 9 – July 10, 2026; July 20,2026   Natsu Ebisu is an event that takes place mainly on July 10, and July 20, miko (shrine maidens) perform “Yutate Kagura,” in which they sprinkle visitors with bamboo branches submerged in boiling water, praying for the reprieve from the heat and for good health. At the “Ebisu Mandoro (Lantern Festival)” starting at 6:00 p.m., the precincts of the shrine are transformed into a fantastic world of light with lit andon (lanterns) and candles. Period: July 18 – July 30, 2026   The Mitarashi Festival is a summer event in Kyoto, also known as “Ashitsuke Shinji(Ritual of Foot-soaking)”, in which people take a knee-deep dip in the Mitarashi Pond on the grounds of Shimogamo Shrine to purify themselves of any impurities and pray for good health. Walking through the cool water is a great way to feel cool, and is a fun event for the whole family to participate in. Date: August 16, 2026   This is a traditional summer event in Kyoto to return the spirits of ancestors who were welcomed during Obon to the underworld. A fire is lit on a pyre in the middle of the mountain, and the Chinese characters “Dai”, left “Dai”, “Myou”, and “Hou”, as well as the shape of a boat, float on the pyre. The lights are lit one after the other starting at 20:00, and each can be viewed for about 30 minutes. See the website below for the lighting time and viewing locations. https://kyoto.travel/en/ Summer events & activities are held mainly at night. Even if you have visited Japan many times, you may discover something new by participating in these limited-time events!

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