The lively spirit of Kyoto is best experienced during Gion Matsuri, one of Japan’s largest festivals. The parades of elaborate floats, called yamaboko, are art exhibitions in motion, presenting the exquisite local craftwork. This same attention to detail can be seen in the Japanese approach to architecture and interior design. Where Kyoto’s festivals are colorful and over the top, the ubiquitous design aesthetic is more restrained and simplified, allowing the quality of the materials to speak for themselves and offering a respite from buzzing life in the city.