Kyoto students pull 10-ton float in test run

July 13, 2012

By TAKUMI OKADA/ Staff Writer

KYOTO--A throng of yukata-clad female college students and a group of elementary school kids provided the muscle to move a 10-ton float in Kyoto on July 12.

The estimated 250 people, including students, pulled the Niwatori (hen) hoko float about 200 meters along Muromachi-dori street as part of a test run for the Gion Festival, which runs through the end of July.

The pull was part of the “Hikizome” test drive of five floats, including the Naginata hoko, which will lead the Yamahoko Junko, the grand procession of “yamahoko” floats, on July 17.

“The hearts of all became one,” said 10-year-old Kanon Zushi, who took part in the test run. "It was more difficult than the tug of war on sports day.”

By TAKUMI OKADA/ Staff Writer
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College students and others participate in a test drive of a float in Kyoto on July 12. (Takaharu Yagi)

College students and others participate in a test drive of a float in Kyoto on July 12. (Takaharu Yagi)

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  • College students and others participate in a test drive of a float in Kyoto on July 12. (Takaharu Yagi)