On July 23, 2026, the Gion Festival’s *Ato-matsuri* (Latter Festival) reached the *Yoiyama* stage—the eve of the Yamaboko float procession. In central Kyoto, people strolled through the *Yamaboko-machi* (float districts), guided by the soft glow of *komagata* lanterns, creating an atmospheric scene.
According to the Kyoto Local Meteorological Office, the high temperature in Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto City, reached 39.7°C at 3:32 p.m. that day, marking a new record high for the year. The heat persisted into the evening, with the temperature still at 34.8°C at 6:00 p.m.
Around 6:30 p.m. on Shinmachi-dori Street in Nakagyo Ward, the refreshing sounds of traditional *hayashi* music from the Kita-Kannon-yama and Minami-Kannon-yama floats resonated through the air, drawing the attention of locals and tourists alike. At the merchant houses lining the street, magnificent folding screens and *hi-ougi* (blackberry lily) flowers were on display; onlookers peered through the windows to enjoy the "Byobu Matsuri" (Folding Screen Festival) and savor the charm of the city's traditional merchant culture.
Some people enjoyed capturing the pleasant atmosphere of the float district—illuminated by the glow of lanterns—in photographs or sketches.
According to the Kyoto Prefectural Police, the crowd size stood at approximately 12,000 people as of 8:30 p.m., an increase of about 1,000 compared to the previous year.
