Gion Matsuri Crowdfunding Begins! Kyoto Shinkin Bank Offers Returns Again This Year.

Community Bank Kyoshin (Kyoto Shinkin Bank; Headquarters: Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto; Chairman: Takayuki Sakakida) is providing part of its co-creation facility, QUESTION, free of charge as a venue for a 'Special Viewing Session,' one of the return benefits for the crowdfunding campaign: '[Donation Type] Protecting 1150 Years of History: Recruiting Supporters to Support the Safety of the 2026 Kyoto Gion Matsuri,' conducted by the Gion Matsuri Yamaboko Federation (Secretariat: Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto; Chairman: Jiro Kimura).

Background of the Initiative

In recent years, many tourists from Japan and abroad have visited Kyoto, showing an increasing interest in Japanese culture. In particular, the Gion Matsuri, with over a thousand years of history, remains a symbolic traditional summer event that captivates many people.

However, rising prices, increased labor costs, and the need for strengthened security have placed a greater burden on the festival's operation. To ensure the festival is held safely and passed on to the future, support from many is essential. Therefore, this crowdfunding project is being conducted to bridge the Gion Matsuri to the next generation.

This crowdfunding initiative began in 2017 following a proposal by the Bank to the Gion Matsuri Yamaboko Federation. It has been held nine times so far, with over 9,300 supporters. The total support raised exceeds 115 million yen, contributing to the smooth operation of the festival and the preservation of traditional culture.

In addition, 770 bank employees have participated as volunteers in the 'Gion Matsuri Waste Zero Project,' which aims to reduce waste and prevent littering during the festival, over the past eight initiatives.

Providing Front-Row Seats for 'Tsujimawashi' Viewing!

As a return benefit for supporters, the Bank is providing its 'Community Steps' multi-purpose space on the 3rd and 4th floors of the co-creation facility 'QUESTION' as a venue for the 'Special Viewing Session' during both the Saki-matsuri and Ato-matsuri.

From this open space, enclosed in glass, guests can overlook the 'Tsujimawashi,' one of the highlights of the Gion Matsuri. Guests can enjoy the festival in a comfortable, air-conditioned environment with commentary from a curator at The Museum of Kyoto.

After the viewing, time is also provided to enjoy a meal featuring summer flavors of Kyoto, such as Kyoto vegetables, at the 'DAIDOKORO' community kitchen on the 8th floor.

Joint Press Conference Held

On May 20, 2026, a joint press conference was held by the Gion Matsuri Yamaboko Federation, Makuake, and Kyoto Shinkin Bank at the QUESTION Community Steps venue.

The 10th crowdfunding campaign, filled with everyone's passion, starts today.