Even though it is mid-rainy season, the Aizen Festival anticipates the hot summer ahead with a parade of women wearing cool and attractive yukata (light kimono). As Osaka's first summer festival of the year, this is held from June 30 to July 2 at Shoman-in, also known as Aizendou, a 1,400 year-old temple commissioned by Prince Shotoku. On the first day of celebrations, palanquins bearing young women in yukata are carried through the streets and toward Shoman-in. Every year, 12 women are chosen from numerous applicants to join the parade, which takes place before a beauty contest at the temple on July 1.