From the end of the Nara Period (794AD), Kyoto has acted as a crossroads in Japanese history. Kyoto was the capital of Japan for over 1000 years from 794 to 1868AD when the Emperor moved to Tokyo. In addition to beautiful imperial villas, Kyoto is home to approximately 400 Shinto shrines and 1,650 Buddhist temples which are dotted around the city. Innumerable cultural treasures and traditional crafts, as well as beautiful spring cherry blossoms and autumnal colors, attract visitors to Kyoto, both from Japan and abroad.
The ancient capital of Kyoto, the traditions of which have matured over the ages, is now making startling advancements.
Its rich culture and experience are being utilized by modern technological industries. For example, semiconductor and liquid crystal displays have been made based on Kiyomizu Pottery techniques. Traditional skills developed over 1000 years ago in this ancient capital are now being utilized in cutting-edge technologies.
Furthermore, the people of Kyoto have produced much religious artwork, and different forms of entertainment.
Countless religious Shinto rituals and festivals have captured the imagination of people the world over. Many of these festivals, such as Gion Matsuri which was lost in the turmoil of war, have been restored, and continue to carefully maintain traditions.
The people of Kyoto, as a matter of course, open their cultural treasures to the world. We hope you will enjoy the inexhaustible charm of Kyoto - its rich, natural beauty, culinary culture and arts.
The congress period coincides with the perfect time for viewing the beautiful deep red hues of the Japanese maple's foliage.
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Kinkaku-ji |
The hand-painted yuzen |
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