Tsuki-hoko 月鉾

This float derives its name from a crescent moon on the top of its pole. Halfway up the pole the deity of the moon known as Tsukiyomi-no-Mikoto, is enshrined.

The gorgeous pictures of flowers and grasses on the lower side of the eaves of this float were rendered in 1784 by Maruyama Okyo, the most renowned painter of the time. Additional paintings on the float based on themes from the world-famous “Tale of Genji” were made in 1835 by a wealthy local resident. The elaborate sculptures on the roof are attributed to the noted master Hidari Jingoro of the early 17th century, who is famous for having carved the Nemuri-neko (“Sleeping Cat”) at the Toshogu shrine in Nikko. Many works which are believed to have been carved by Hidari Jingoro are treasured in Kyoto.

The Tsuki-Hoko (literally “Moon float”) is characterized by many of its must-see museum pieces including dyed textile works, ceiling paintings, architectural sculptures, as well as elaborate metalworks, and other works of art.