Meet Gion Matsuri’s brand new boat float, the Ofune-hoko (大船鉾). It made its debut in the Gion Matsuri procession for the first time on July 24, 2014, a week after the first and main procession on July 17.
The Gion Matsuri now holds two yama-hoko float processions. The first one on July 17 (Saki Matsuri) is still the larger one with 23 floats. The Ato Matsuri on July 24 has 10 floats including the brand new Ofune-hoko boat float which appears last in the Ato Matsuri procession.
The Gion Matsuri being designated as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2009 was also very encouraging. The new boat float was estimated to cost ¥120 million. In Oct. 2011, the float’s wooden framework was completed at a cost of ¥30 million yen. The wheels cost another ¥30 million, roof ¥20 million, and ornaments and decorations ¥40 million.
Although the Ofune-hoko made its festival debut in July 2014, it is still not complete. It will take more years to finance and add more decorative items. They are still seeking donations (1,000 yen minimum). Website: ofunehoko.jp
