A crowdfunding campaign has been launched to ensure the safety of the Gion Festival, which represents the summer in Kyoto and Japan, and to pass it on to future generations.
This year's goal is 16 million yen, up from the previous year's 15,935,000 yen. Funds raised will be used to strengthen security, assemble the floats and mountains, deal with accidents that may occur during the procession, and take measures against heat stroke.
Donors will receive a return gift such as a tenugui hand towel or a fan, depending on the amount of the donation.
*Donations start at 5,000 yen and will be accepted until Friday, July 19.