Sliding Sideways Across the Globe

The north of Kyoto in May is said to hold the worlds oldest festival.

The prayers of the local people after flooding were answered and the celebrationary parade has continued since the 6th century.

So it was on this sunny that we headed out into the cultural center to witness traditional Japanese attire wander through the streets.

It began with a display of horsemanship, charging down a gravel path before the dignitaries.

The crowds had already staked out prime positions but a friendly couple allowed us to squeeze through for photo opportunities.

Suddenly the crowds began to dissipate and we charge after them. Weaving through back streets, the procession had began, the rhythmic clang of bells and light dance of the flute echoed further down the road.

We dashed out where the crowds were thin, grabbed a photo and dashed ahead through alleyways, trying the catch the entire gambit on display.

Children marched on through the noon heat in elaborate clothes ...

... streams of colours washed past, pink archers, green horseman and red flute players ...

... a solemn geisha expressionlessly walked the hour long pilgrimage.

Eventually it ended at the Kamigamo shrine, recreating the original offerings to the gods.