SETAGAYA, Japan – May 8, 2026 – PRLog — Arigato Travel (https://arigatotravel.com/), Japan’s #1 Culinary and Cultural Tourism Company, is proud to announce its contribution to the preservation of Kyoto’s cultural heritage through a donation made as part of the The Aoi Matsuri Procession Sponsorship Committee in support of the renowned Aoi Matsuri, taking place on May 15, 2026.
Recognized as one of Kyoto’s three most important festivals, the Aoi Matsuri is a centuries-old tradition dating back to the 6th century. Known for its refined elegance and historical authenticity, the festival features a grand procession of over 500 participants dressed in exquisite Heian-period attire, journeying from the Kyoto Imperial Palace to the sacred Shimogamo Shrine and Kamigamo Shrine. Adorned with hollyhock leaves, or “aoi,” the event symbolizes protection and good fortune while showcasing the spiritual and cultural depth of Kyoto’s traditions.
Sponsorship contributions are essential to the preservation and continuity of the Aoi Matsuri. The planning and execution of this historic procession require substantial resources, and funds raised by the sponsorship association are allocated to the Aoi Matsuri Preservation Society. These contributions support critical preparations, including the creation and maintenance of authentic Heian-period costumes, as well as the care and coordination of the oxen and horses that lead the procession.
Through this donation, Arigato Travel reaffirms its commitment to supporting local communities and safeguarding Japan’s intangible cultural heritage. As a company dedicated to responsible tourism and authentic cultural exchange, Arigato Travel works closely with local partners to promote sustainable travel while encouraging deeper, more meaningful connections with Japan. By supporting initiatives such as the Aoi Matsuri, the company aims to give back to the communities that make its experiences possible and help preserve traditions that reflect the country’s rich history and cultural identity.
For more information about Arigato Travel and its cultural experiences across Japan, please visit https://arigatotravel.com.
For more information about the Aoi Matsuri, visit https://kyoto.travel/en/travel-inspiration/aoi-matsuri-festival. (https://kyoto.travel/en/travel-inspiration/aoi-matsuri-fe…)

AloJapan.com