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Mitarashi River Foot-Dipping & Lantern Festival 2026

Main shrine of Kitano Tenmangu, Kyoto — venue for the Mitarashi River Foot-Dipping and Lantern Festival
Aug1–162026
Events

Wade through an icy shrine stream by lantern light at Kitano Tenmangu — Kyoto's most refreshing summer purification ritual.

In a nutshell

What is it?
Barefoot wading through a candle-lit shrine stream — an ancient summer purification ritual at Kitano Tenmangu, illuminated by thousands of lanterns.
Why go?
Free, hands-on, genuinely cooling, and deeply atmospheric — a favourite among Kyoto locals that most tourists miss.
Perfect for
Families, couples, anyone seeking a cooling break from Kyoto's August heat
Time needed
Aug 1–16, best visited at dusk for lanterns

A uniquely Kyoto way to beat the summer heat: wade barefoot through the icy stream at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, light a candle, and offer it at a small waterside altar. This ancient purification ritual (dating back to the Heian Period) is said to absolve sins, drive away sickness, and ensure safe childbirth.

Thousands of lanterns illuminate the shrine grounds each evening, creating a magical atmosphere. It’s a hands-on, refreshing experience — and one of Kyoto’s most popular summer traditions among locals.

Kitano Tenmangu, founded in 947, is one of Kyoto’s most important shrines — dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the patron of scholars and students. Arrive before dusk to explore the grounds and catch the lanterns as daylight fades.