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September

Kyoto in August

Exciting events and experiences happening this month in Kyoto.

festival

Gozan no Okuribi (Daimonji Fire Festival)

August 16, 2025
Various mountains around Kyoto City (Daimonji mountain is prominent)
Free

Witness Kyoto's most iconic summer spectacle! On the night of August 16th, five massive bonfires, shaped into kanji characters and symbols, are lit on the mountains surrounding Kyoto. This breathtaking tradition is a poignant send-off for ancestral spirits during the Obon period, creating a truly unforgettable illuminated cityscape.

This is the crowning event of Kyoto's summer, a visually stunning and deeply spiritual experience that beautifully illuminates the night sky.

cultural
seasonal
free

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seasonal

Arashiyama Toro Nagashi (Lantern Floating Ceremony)

August 16, 2025
Katsura-gawa River, near Togetsukyo Bridge
Free (viewing)

Experience a magical evening as countless lanterns gently float down the Katsura River, reflecting the moon and the surrounding scenery. Held concurrently with the Gozan no Okuribi, this serene ceremony in Arashiyama offers a moment of quiet reflection and a beautiful spectacle as wishes are sent adrift.

The ethereal glow of floating lanterns against the backdrop of Arashiyama is a truly enchanting and photogenic sight.

cultural
night-event
scenic

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arts

Yayoi Kusama Print Works: Repetition & Proliferation

April 25 - September 7, 2025
Kyoto City Kyocera Museum of Art
JPY 2200

Dive into the kaleidoscopic world of avant-garde artist Yayoi Kusama through a captivating exhibition of her print works. Featuring her signature polka dots and net patterns, this display showcases a selection of woodblock and silkscreen prints from her personal collection and the Matsumoto City Museum of Art.

An unmissable opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant and distinctive artistic vision of one of Japan's most celebrated contemporary artists.

exhibition
contemporary-art
indoor

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food

Kamishichiken Beer Garden

July 1 - September 6, 2025
Kamishichiken Kabukai
Paid (check venue for specific pricing)

Enjoy a delightful summer evening at Kyoto's traditional Kamishichiken Beer Garden, offering a rare chance to interact with geiko and maiko in a relaxed setting. Savor refreshing drinks and local specialties while experiencing Kyoto's unique 'Noryo' (cooling off) culture.

This is a unique and intimate cultural experience to enjoy Kyoto's summer nights in the company of traditional Japanese performers.

local-favorite
traditional
entertainment

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culture

Kodai-ji Temple Special Night Time Opening

August 1-18, 2025
Kodai-ji Temple
JPY 600

Discover the magical transformation of Kodai-ji Temple after dark during its special summer illumination. The beautifully lit bamboo grove and projection mapping create an otherworldly atmosphere, making this historic temple even more enchanting.

Step into a dreamlike world as ancient temple grounds and a mystical bamboo forest come alive with stunning nighttime illuminations.

illumination
historical
night-event

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arts

Gojo-zaka Pottery Festival

August 7-10, 2025
Gojo-zaka Street (between Yamato-oji and Higashi-oji) / Wakamiya Hachimangu Shrine
Free entry (items for purchase)

Immerse yourself in the world of Japanese ceramics at the massive Gojo-zaka Pottery Festival, one of Japan's largest. Hundreds of vendors line the streets, offering everything from traditional Kyo-yaki pottery to modern designs, making it the perfect place to find a unique souvenir or a treasure for your home.

A fantastic opportunity to explore the rich pottery tradition of Kyoto and snag some amazing deals directly from artisans.

market
crafts
local-favorite

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culture

Kyoto Antiquarian Book Fair

August 11-16, 2025
Shimogamo-jinja Shrine
Free entry

Bibliophiles rejoice! The Kyoto Antiquarian Book Fair is a major annual event for book collectors and enthusiasts. Browse through a vast collection of used books, including rare finds, old postcards, and diverse Japanalia, set within the beautiful grounds of a historic shrine.

A charming and unique cultural event for discovering hidden literary gems and fascinating historical prints.

market
historical
niche

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culture

Sento Kuyo Memorial

August 23-24, 2025
Adashino-Nembutsu-ji Temple
JPY 500 (standard temple admission)

Experience an ethereal and deeply spiritual event at Adashino-Nembutsu-ji Temple, where thousands of Buddhist images are illuminated by countless candles. This moving memorial is held to pray for the souls of the departed, creating an otherworldly and profoundly serene atmosphere.

An incredibly atmospheric and moving spiritual event, perfect for quiet contemplation amidst flickering candlelight and ancient statues.

spiritual
traditional
night-event

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entertainment

Nijo Castle NAKED Summer Festival

Throughout August 2025 (specific dates may vary)
Nijo Castle
From JPY 700-2,200

Step into a world of artistic wonder at Nijo Castle, transformed by the NAKED art collective's multi-sensory light, sound, and scent experience. This festival brings Kyoto's summer 'Noryo' culture to life with projection mappings, illuminations, and traditional games within the stunning UNESCO World Heritage site.

A modern, immersive art experience that brilliantly merges historical grandeur with cutting-edge digital technology.

illumination
interactive
family-friendly

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culture

Daigo-ji Lantern Festival (Manrankai Festival)

August 5, 2025
Daigo-ji Temple
Paid (check website for details)

Attend the sacred Daigo-ji Lantern Festival, a memorial service on August 5th to honor ancestors and the preciousness of life. Thousands of lanterns light up the temple grounds, and the national treasure Golden Hall and five-story pagoda are specially illuminated, creating a truly dreamy ambiance.

A rare opportunity to see the World Heritage Daigo-ji Temple bathed in the mystical glow of countless lanterns.

spiritual
night-event
historical

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music

Kyoto Music Caravan: Brass Quintet Concert

August 11, 2025
Mibu-dera Temple
Free (temple entrance fee may apply)

Enjoy a captivating evening of brass music at the historic Mibu-dera Temple as part of the Kyoto Music Caravan series. This free concert offers a unique blend of traditional temple atmosphere and the vibrant sounds of a brass quintet, promising an intimate and memorable cultural experience.

Experience beautiful classical music in the serene and historic setting of a Kyoto temple, a truly unique cultural fusion.

free
classical-music
traditional

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arts

Collection Exhibition: Legends of the Shakyamuni Hall (Shakadō Engi)

July 8 - August 24, 2025
Kyoto National Museum
JPY 700

Delve into rich Buddhist narratives with this special feature exhibition at the Kyoto National Museum, commemorating the completion of conservation on illustrated handscrolls. Explore the fascinating legends associated with the Shakyamuni Hall through ancient artworks and artifacts.

A deep dive into historical Japanese art and Buddhist folklore, perfect for those seeking cultural and historical insights.

exhibition
historical
cultural

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Ready to Experience Kyoto?

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