Introduction

Kyoto, Japan's ancient capital, is bustling with tourists throughout the year, but autumn is especially special. The vibrant autumn leaves, clear skies, and festivals that enliven the entire city. This time, we'll introduce the Jidai Matsuri, one of Kyoto's three major autumn festivals, and the charm of Kyoto cuisine, where you can fully enjoy the flavors of autumn in Kyoto. Embark on a special journey to discover the profound depths of Japanese history, culture, and cuisine.

1. The charm of the spectacular historical picture scroll "Jidai Matsuri"

The Jidai Matsuri, one of Kyoto's three major festivals alongside the Aoi Matsuri and the Gion Matsuri, is held every year on October 22nd. The magnificent procession, tracing back roughly 1,100 years of Kyoto's history, from the Meiji Restoration to the Heian period, is like a living historical picture scroll. Approximately 2,000 people, dressed in costumes symbolizing each era, parade from the Kyoto Imperial Palace to Heian Shrine.

Highlights of the Jidai Matsuri

• Gorgeous period costumes : The costumes faithfully recreate the customs and culture of each era, and are meticulously crafted down to the smallest detail. Just by looking at them, you can imagine what life was like for people back then. In particular, the twelve-layered kimono worn by women in the Heian period captivates many with their splendor and beauty.

• Walking through a history textbook : The procession begins with the Meiji Restoration and travels back in time through the Edo, Azuchi-Momoyama, Muromachi, Yoshino, Kamakura, Fujiwara, and Enryaku periods. You can see and feel the flow of Japanese history.

• The excitement along the road : Many spectators fill the roads, and applause and cheers erupt as the procession passes. This excitement is also a major attraction of the Jidai Matsuri. Paid viewing seats are available, so it's recommended for those who want to sit back and enjoy the view.

2. Kyoto cuisine to enjoy the taste of autumn in Kyoto

Autumn is the season when mountain produce such as Kyoto vegetables, mushrooms, and chestnuts are in season. It is also the time when fresh seafood arrives from the Sea of Japan, giving Kyoto cuisine an even richer flavor. Kyoto cuisine is a feast for the eyes and a delight for the tongue, and is packed with the essence of Japanese food culture.

Kyoto cuisine to try in autumn

• Conger eel dishes : Conger eel is often associated with summer, but the "nagorihamo" conger eel of autumn is especially delicious with its rich fat. You can enjoy its delicate flavor grilled or served in a bowl.

• Matsutake dishes : Matsutake mushrooms, also known as the king of aromas, are an essential part of Kyoto cuisine in autumn. You can enjoy their mellow aroma to the fullest when they are served in earthenware pots or grilled.

• Boiled Kyoto vegetables : Kyoto vegetables grown in the Kyoto climate, such as Kamo eggplant, shrimp potato, and Kujo leek, are boiled or deep-fried to bring out the natural sweetness and umami of the ingredients.

3. Recommended Autumn Kyoto Travel Plan

A day to enjoy the Jidai Festival and autumn leaves

Morning : Watch the Jidai Matsuri procession. Experience the grand scale of the procession around Kyoto Imperial Palace and Heian Shrine.

Lunch : To cool down from the festival heat, enjoy boiled tofu and Kyoto vegetable tempura at a long-established Kyoto cuisine restaurant.

Afternoon : Stroll through famous autumn foliage spots such as the Philosopher's Path and Eikando Temple. The scenery, dyed in vermilion and gold, is breathtakingly beautiful.

Dinner : Enjoy a kaiseki meal using autumn Kyoto vegetables at a Kyoto restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere.

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3. Tips for gaining a deeper understanding of Kyoto cuisine

There are some things you should know to enjoy Kyoto cuisine to the fullest.

• The culture of "dashi" : The foundation of Kyoto cuisine is "dashi" made from kelp and bonito flakes. This dashi brings out the full flavor of the ingredients, creating a delicate and deep taste.

• A feast for the eyes : One of the great attractions of Kyoto cuisine is the beauty of its presentation. The dishes, seasonal flowers, and leaves are used to express the feeling of the season throughout the entire dish. Take your time to enjoy each dish, which is like a work of art, with your eyes.

• Obanzai : Obanzai, a home-cooked dish, is also an important part of Kyoto cuisine. Its gentle flavor, painstakingly prepared using local ingredients, gives you a glimpse into the lifestyle of the people of Kyoto.

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Kyoto in autumn is a truly special place where you can experience the richness of Japanese history, culture, and cuisine all at once.

The magnificent procession of the Jidai Matsuri Festival will leave you feeling as if you have traveled back in time. Kyoto cuisine is not only delicious, but is also packed with the wisdom and aesthetic sense of Japan's nature and people.

If you visit Kyoto, be sure to experience the excitement of the Jidai Matsuri and the delicate flavors of Kyoto cuisine to your heart's content. It will surely deepen your understanding of Japan and create unforgettable memories.

summary

The charm of Kyoto in autumn is further enhanced by two major events: the Jidai Festival and Kyoto cuisine. A grand festival that evokes the weight of history, and a variety of delicious dishes made with carefully prepared seasonal ingredients.

As introduced in this article, learning about the charms of each area will make your trip to Kyoto deeper and more enriching. Experience Kyoto in autumn, where you can experience beautiful scenery, delicious food, and the warm hearts of its people.