The Hoe Kago procession, which prays for business prosperity, was held around Takasegawa River in Nakagyo Ward and Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto City, on March 30, 2025. Amid the chilly weather, a gorgeous procession paraded under cherry blossoms that were only half in bloom.
The local group "Kyoto Takasegawa Mikoshi Association" has been hosting the parade since 2012. About 120 merchants and volunteers dressed in blue happi coats paraded for two hours along a three-kilometer route that included Kiyamachi Street and Shinkyogoku Shopping Street.
Amid the sounds of drums and bells, participants chanted "Hoe Kago, Hoe Kago, Takasegawa" as they advanced. Women in gorgeous kimonos riding in four baskets decorated with cherry blossoms smiled at tourists with cameras.
