Catherine Pawasarat didn’t grow up in Kyoto, but in the early 1990s, she moved into a traditional house right in the heart of the Gion neighborhood. One morning she stepped outside to find a float’s gigantic wheel being built — and that moment changed her life.
Since then, she’s interviewed float elders, studied all 34 yamaboko, collected over 20,000 photos, and become one of the most trusted non-Japanese voices on the Gion Matsuri. Her dedication culminated in her book, The Gion Festival: Exploring Its Mysteries, the first comprehensive English-language guide to the festival.
As a self-described “visitor and lifelong student,” Catherine bridges the gap between tradition and exploration. Her insights into Gion Festival in Kyoto, spirituality, art, and community make her more than just an expert — she’s a storyteller, mediator, and cultural bridge.
If you’re planning to dive deep into the Gion Matsuri festival, her work is a rare window into what really happens behind the scenes. Visit : https://www.gionfestival.org/gion-festival-expert/
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