The Himeji Yukata Festival, a vibrant celebration of traditional Japanese fashion, is set to return this year on June 24th and 25th from 4:30~9:30pm. The festival, which takes place annually in the city of Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture, is the oldest of its kind in Japan and has a rich history dating back to the Edo period, approximately 260 years ago.

The tradition began when Sakakibara Masamine, the Lord of Himeji Castle from 1732 to 1741, decided to move the Osakabe Shrine closer to the town center. A street festival was hastily organized to mark the shrine’s opening. Despite an existing taboo of wearing yukata in public, the event’s short notice meant there was not enough time for many of the townspeople to buy a more formal kimono, and so the lord permitted them to don a yukata. This decision was well-received and quickly became an established local tradition.

The festival attracts thousands of people, many of whom wear yukata, a light garment made from cotton, usually worn during the hot Japanese summer months. The festival features a large number of stalls offering a variety of goods and services, and those in yukata can get discounts at some stores around the venue, and also free entry to facilities around Himeji Castle.

This year, the festival is expected to be even more exciting with the addition of a yukata fashion show. Visitors will have the opportunity to see a variety of yukata designs, from traditional to modern, and even some with a Western twist. The fashion show will be held on the first day of the festival, June 22nd, at the Himeji City Central Park.

The Himeji Yukata Festival is not just a celebration of traditional dress, but also a significant cultural event featuring live music, traditional dance performances, a yukata parade, and various food and drink stalls. It is estimated that around 70% of all visitors to the Himeji Yukata Festival wear yukata, which far exceeds the 30% or so who typically wear yukata to other summer festivals.

The festival takes place in the centre of Himeji City, between Himeji Station and Himeji Castle, providing a stunning backdrop to the colourful event. So, if you’re in Japan during this time, don’t miss the chance to experience this vibrant celebration of tradition and fashion.

Visit the Official Site of the Himeji Yukata Festival 姫路ゆかたまつり (Japanese)