Tokusa Yama

Tokusa Yama is one of the floats featured in Kyoto’s Gion Festival Early Festival (Saki Matsuri). It commemorates the tragic final moments of Minamoto no Yorimasa, the renowned samurai, poet, and military commander of the late Heian period.

The float takes its name from the legend that Yorimasa’s bloodstained sword was cleansed with tokusa (horsetail reeds) after his death at the Battle of Uji in 1180. A sacred figure holding tokusa represents this poignant episode, making the float a symbol of loyalty, honor, and the samurai spirit.

History

Tokusa Yama is based on the story of Minamoto no Yorimasa, who fought against the Taira clan during the Battle of Uji in 1180.

After being defeated, Yorimasa committed ritual suicide at Byodo-in Temple. According to tradition, his attendants wiped the blood from his sword using tokusa, a type of horsetail plant traditionally used for polishing. This episode gave the float its name.

Yorimasa was celebrated not only as a warrior but also as an accomplished poet, and his final moments are vividly described in classics such as The Tale of the Heike. Tokusa Yama preserves the memory of his courage and loyalty.

Highlights

Dedicated to Minamoto no Yorimasa

The float commemorates one of the most respected warriors and poets of the late Heian period.

The Tokusa Legend

Its name comes from the legend of cleansing Yorimasa’s sword with horsetail reeds after the Battle of Uji.

Symbol of Samurai Honor

Tokusa Yama represents loyalty, courage, and the ideals of the samurai tradition.

Connection with The Tale of the Heike

The float is closely linked to one of Japan’s greatest historical epics, making it especially meaningful for history enthusiasts.

Visit Tips

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

Those interested in Minamoto no Yorimasa’s story may also wish to visit Byodo-in Temple in Uji, where the famous Battle of Uji took place. Together, these sites offer a deeper understanding of one of Japan’s most celebrated samurai legends.