Hi! For better or for worse, we're going to Kyoto next month for Obon, no changing it. I have read countless articles about the cultural and historical background of Obon, I get that the mountains are lit up starting at 8 pm, but is there anything leading up to it?
I ask because in the USA, you get fireworks on the 4th of July, but usually for 2 hours leading up to the fireworks, there's a concert with music and people bring lawn chairs. Some towns like to close off a street to cars and have temporary local vendors at a street fair, etc. Is there anything like that for Obon? Or do you just… show up at 8 and watch the fires and go home?
Secondly, where do I watch the fires? This website has been the most helpful and I see that the mall rooftop is the "optimal" spot to see all of them. No matter how hard I google, I can't find information about how getting to the parking deck rooftop works. Is it first-come first serve or is there a ticketing system? How early should I get in line if the former, and how early to buy a ticket if the latter?
Alternatively, I have read other guides that say people line up along the river to watch just Daimonji – is that a better experience? What do you recommend?
Lastly, a different question: is Nishiki market closed at night? This blogger's post from a few years ago implies that it's open, but Japan Guide says most stores close by 6. We're going to see the market (whether it's a tourist trap or not, we have our reasons), I just want to know when to plan for it.
Thanks in advance for your help!
by TsarinaOfHearts