Photo/Illutration The Shijodori area is turned into a pedestrian crossing and crowded with spectators having fun. The photo was taken in Kyoto’s Shimogyo Ward at 7:35 p.m. on July 15. (Yoshiaki Arai)

KYOTO--The streets here were bathed in the glow of lantern lights and filled with the sounds of music as the floats were shown to the public two nights before the famed Gion Festival’s main float parade.

The lively event, known as “Yoiyoiyama” (meaning cerebration two days before the float procession), was held on July 15.

At dusk, lanterns on 23 floats were lit while “Gion bayashi,” the festival’s traditional music, echoed through downtown Kyoto.

Karasuma-dori street was lined with food stalls and crowded with people taking pictures of the floats and shopping for good luck charms.

These festivities carry on for three nights ahead of the Yamahoko procession, which will take place on July 17. The events on the nights from July 14 through 16 are known as “yoiyoiyoiyama,” "yoiyoiyama" and "yoiyama," respectively.

The Yamahoko float procession on July 17 is scheduled to start at 9 a.m.

The Naginatahoko float will lead other floats and embark from Shijokarasuma on Karasuma street.

According to Kyoto prefectural police, an estimated 230,000 people were in the festival area at 9:30 p.m. on July 15, about a 50,000 decrease compared to the previous year. 

Premium seats for the float procession, after a dispute among the festival’s organizers, will be offered without food or alcohol this year for the patrons. 

However, a nearby hotel buffet will be served after the event for those who bought the expensive premium seat tickets.

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