Gion Matsuri - Kyoto

I will be headed to Japan next month for my first summer visit. I was actually able to snag a reserved seat ticket for the Gion Matsuri parade fo floats. Has anyone ever sat in those seats? I was just wondering if the area is in the shade. All I know is that the seats are along Oike Street.

I just posted about my own experience in the following thread:
http://www.japan-guide.com/forum/quereadisplay.html?0+6...

We were sitting in the sun. No shadow, whatsoever. Other areas might have shadow. But they gave us hats for protection against the sun.

Thanks Uji! I'll just have to arrive early and hope for the best.

Would someone please tell me how soon the parade starts this year? I will arrive Kyoto on the 17th, and I found out the Ryokan I stay is near the Parade route. I am researching when it's best to arrive without getting overwhelmed by the crowd. Advices?

I think the schedule does not usually change. It is outlined on the following page:
http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e3942.html