#Japan #Kyoto #Gion Matsuri #Nagakawa Residence

Special Exhibition: Byobu Festival at Nagakawa Residence 2025

A remarkable highlight of Kyoto's cultural calendar is the Byobu Festival, which will take place from July 13 to 16, 2025, at the historic Nagakawa Residence. This exhibition, organized by Hoosier Holdings Inc. in collaboration with Ritsumeikan University Art Research Center, will present a unique opportunity to explore the residence's rich collection of art pieces, particularly during the festive atmosphere of the Gion Matsuri.

The Essence of Byobu Festival

The Byobu Festival is a cherished tradition where the old houses of the Yamaboko towns in Kyoto open their doors to showcase beautiful art pieces such as byobū (folding screens) and various cultural artifacts to the public. This year’s festival is themed around 'Showa 100 Years,' which commemorates the century since the Showa era began, and it promises to offer a remarkable display of about 25 curated pieces, including folding screens, hanging scrolls, and cultural materials from daily life in the Showa period, reflecting the lifestyle and cultural heritage of that time.

Visitors will witness not only splendid art but also photographs and videos that present the essence of life during the Showa era, providing insight into Kyoto's rich cultural tapestry.

About Nagakawa Residence

Designated as a tangible cultural property by the city of Kyoto, the Nagakawa Residence exemplifies the traditional architecture of Kyoto Machiya, featuring a typical layout conducive to both living and working. The residence comprises several buildings, and its preservation is a collaborative effort between Hoosier Holdings and Ritsumeikan University. The property is usually closed to the public to ensure its upkeep, but it is opened during significant events such as the Gion Matsuri, making the Byobu Festival a rare occasion for guests to experience history up close.

Each year, this festival attracts both locals and tourists, eager to glimpse the heritage preserved within these aged walls. The initiatives also encourage student involvement, with students from Ritsumeikan University participating in planning and execution, providing them with valuable hands-on experience in cultural curation.

Highlights of the Exhibition

The special exhibition will include:

• - Byobu (Folding Screens):

- “Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter Landscape Screen” by Taniguchi Aizen, Meiji Era
- “Children Playing Screen,” artist unknown, Late Edo Period
- “Pine Tree Screen” by Kubota Takubun, Meiji Era

• - Hanging Scroll:

- “Gion Festival String Drawing” by Haneda Getsushuu, Meiji Era

• - Other Artifacts:

- Various daily goods and cultural materials, including postcards, design books, toys, and glass plates.

Schedule and Admission Details

• - Dates: July 13 (Sun) to July 16 (Wed), 2025
• - Public Opening Hours:

- July 13: 1 PM - 6 PM (Last entry at 5:30 PM)
- July 14 to 16: 10 AM - 8 PM (Last entry at 7:30 PM)

• - Press Preview: July 13, 11 AM - 12:30 PM
• - Admission Fee:

- General: ¥1,000 (includes novelty items such as postcards)
- Children (elementary/junior high): ¥300
- Preschool children and persons with disabilities: Free admission

• - Location: Nagakawa Residence, 394 Shinmachi-dori, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto City, near Funahoko

- Access: 5-minute walk from Exit 6 of Kyoto Subway Karasuma Line, Shijo Station.

Conclusion

The Byobu Festival at Nagakawa Residence embodies a unique confluence of cultural preservation and community engagement during one of Japan's most significant and beautiful festivals. Visitors will have the rare opportunity to appreciate historic artworks while experiencing the festive spirit of the Gion Matsuri. Do not miss this significant cultural event in Kyoto’s calendar!