Hosho Yama

Hosho Yama is one of the floats featured in Kyoto’s Gion Festival Early Festival (Saki Matsuri). Unlike many festival floats inspired by Chinese legends or religious figures, Hosho Yama is based on a famous Heian-period love story between the warrior Taira no Yasumasa (Hosho) and the celebrated poet Izumi Shikibu.

The float depicts Hosho carrying a branch of red plum blossoms, recalling the legendary tale in which he risked his life to fulfill Izumi Shikibu’s wish. Today, the float is widely associated with love, happy relationships, and good fortune in marriage.

History

Hosho Yama commemorates the romantic legend of Taira no Yasumasa and the renowned poet Izumi Shikibu, one of Japan’s greatest waka poets.

According to tradition, Izumi Shikibu asked Yasumasa to bring her a branch of red plum blossoms from the Shishinden Hall of the Imperial Palace—a dangerous request because entering the palace without permission was forbidden. Yasumasa nevertheless succeeded, demonstrating his unwavering devotion.

This story became a symbol of faithful love, and Hosho Yama has long been regarded as a float that brings blessings for romance and lasting relationships.

Each year, the float is decorated with fresh red plum blossoms, making it one of the few places where visitors can enjoy plum branches during the summer festival.

Highlights

A Heian Love Story

Hosho Yama celebrates the legendary romance between Taira no Yasumasa and the poet Izumi Shikibu.

Fresh Red Plum Blossoms

The float is decorated each year with real red plum branches, symbolizing Yasumasa’s legendary gift.

Blessings for Love

Visitors pray here for successful relationships, happy marriages, and lasting love.

A Unique Festival Float

Unlike many Gion Festival floats based on religious or Chinese themes, Hosho Yama is inspired by a classic Japanese romance.

Visit Tips

Hosho Yama is located in the Shijo-Karasuma festival district and can easily be visited together with nearby floats such as Tsuki Boko, Naginata Boko, and Kakkyo Yama.

Be sure to look for the fresh plum blossoms displayed on the float during Yoiyama. Their presence in midsummer makes Hosho Yama one of the most distinctive and memorable floats of the Gion Festival.