Arashiyama Togetsukyo Bridge & Surroundings, Kyoto

Spectacular scenes of courtly boating from the early history of Japan will be enacted around Togetsukyo bridge. Elegant courtiers perform traditional dances, music and poetry on the three boats that sail up and down the river Oi. The woman in the extravagant kimono is Sei Shonagon, the author of The Pillow Book. The best way to enjoy this festival is to borrow one of the blue paddle boats and watch the processions from the water.