The 24th Kyoto Student Festival, organized by university students, took place on October 11, 2026, in the area surrounding Heian-jingu Shrine and the Okazaki Promenade in Sakyo Ward, Kyoto. Under clear, warm autumn skies—warm enough to break a sweat—students in colorful costumes performed energetic dances and musical numbers.
During the opening, approximately 1,000 participants spread out along Jingumichi Street to perform a special version of the original dance, "Kyo-en Sodefure!" drawing applause from the crowds lining the route. This was followed by a "Kyo-en Sodefure!" contest on the main stage, featuring 13 competing teams. Dressed in outfits—some fashioned from repurposed *tomesode* (formal kimonos)—the performers danced to music incorporating lyrics from traditional songs about Kyoto’s street names and the "Gion Kouta" (Gion Ditty).
Sakura Nakamura (20 years old), a third-year law student at Kyoto Women’s University and a member of the team "Kyo-Komachi," remarked, "By practicing with people I wouldn't otherwise meet in my daily student life, we were able to really refine our performance."
Throughout the venue, which was divided into eight distinct zones, various band performances and dance contests were held until the evening, enlivening the atmosphere. The festival also featured a pop-up teahouse—constructed by architecture students using reclaimed timber—as well as stalls selling miscellaneous goods and handmade sweets, allowing local residents and tourists alike to relax and soak in the festive spirit.
