Aoi Matsuri

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The Aoi Matsuri (葵祭り) is a festival that takes place annually on May 15 in Kyoto, Japan. It dates from the Heian period. During the festival, emissaries leave the Kyoto Imperial Palace and proceed to the Kamo Shrines. Participants wear costumes of the Heian period.

Aoi Matsuri is less of a festival and more of a, spectator event. Where there are a few competitions for archery and other things from the era. You will see many men with swords and bows walking around, they are acting as security.

A famous scene in the Tale of Genji takes place during the Aoi Matsuri.