It’s time to put my backpack down and to explore the old capital, with its countless temples and its lively neighbourhood. But first, an incredible festival!
Aoi Matsuri
I was really excited to be in Kyōto this week because it was the time of one of the biggest festival in Kyōto, the Aoi Matsuri.
Starting in the imperial palace, this procession of more than 500 people dressed in traditional clothes walks towards two Shinto Shrines during the day, Shimogamo Shrine and Kamigamo Shrine.
I saw women and children in kimonos, enormous umbrellas, archers and knights, palanquins and chariots. They were also multiples animals, like horses and cattle.
It was the perfect moment to get inspired by clothing in the aristocratic style of the Heian Period (794-1185).
Discovering the city
Kyōto is well known for all of its temples, and some preserved old neighbourhood where maiko still perform today.
I was motivated to discover slightly less known places because most of the famous temples don’t allow people to sketch in them, which doesn’t really fit my purpose here.
I am mostly drawn to the Shinto temples, with vermillion toriis and wooden structures.
Shimogamo Shrine
Kyōto is build along the Kamogawa River, which is a peaceful place to walk and enjoy birds flying around like herons, ducks and crows. I sketched a few of them.
Kamogawa River
Making of Sake
The south of Kyōto is a sake district, where breweries have been here since the 17th century.
It was the perfect opportunity to learn more about the process of creation of this traditional alcohol. From the preparation of the rice, to the selection of the water, it was fascinating to see the different steps involved.
I could also taste some of their products and enjoy the slight nuance they have. Kanpai!
Sake preparation tools
For next week, I’ll still be in Kyōto but I want to switch my focus to the daily life and more mundane views. See you next week!
Postcard of the week : Heian jingu Shrine