KYOTO PREFECTURE, KYOTO-FU

KYOTO is located in the central part of the
Kinki district, facing the Japan Sea on the north.
The capital is Kyoto City.

Kyoto prospered as the capital of Japan for over 1,000 years,
from its founding as Heiankyo in 794 until Tokyo became
the capital in 1869.  It has many famous places and historical sites.

It also has a long history as the cultural center of Japan.
Such arts as tea ceremony, flower arrangement, Noh, Kyogen,
Kabuki, classical Japanese dance (Nihon Buyo),and
many others originated in Kyoto.  The headquaters of
many schools for these arts are still located in Kyoto.

Industry and business are developing in the southern part of
Kyoto, centering around Kyoto City. 
Many traditional industries with long histories continue to prosper.


Tourism

Kiyomizu Temple:
A buddhist temple of the Hosso sect located in
Higashiyama Ward of the city of Kyoto.
The Main Hall is famous 'Kiyomizu no butai (Kiyomizu Stage)'
a raised platform jutting from the hill side, offers a broad
view of the city.
The expression 'Kiyomizu no butai kara tobi oriru'
(to jump off the stage at Kiyomizu) is the Japanese equivalent
of the English expression 'to take the plunge'.
















Sanjusangendo:
The main hall of the Rengeo Temple, located in
Higashiyama Ward of Kyoto City.  There is an annual
exhibition of long-distance archery (Toshi-ya) in January,
on Coming-of Age Day.



















Ryoanji:
In Ukyo Ward in Kyoto City.  A zen temple of the Rinzai
sect of Buddhism, famous for its stone garden (sekitei).









Byodoin Houou do (Phoenix Hall):
A temple in Uji City.  The Phoenix Hall is stamped on
the back of 10 yen coin.









Nijo castle:
In Nakagyo Ward of Kyoto City, it was constructed by
Tokugawa Ieyasu early in the Edo period.








Sanzen-in: 
In Sakyo Ward of Kyoto City, a Tendai sect temple.
It is a famous place for viewing autumn foliage.











Kyoto Gosho - Kyoto Imperial Palace:
In Kamigyo Ward in Kyoto City, this was the Imperial Palace.
Prior booking is a must for visiting the Imperial Palace,
they do have a tour with English speaking guide.
Booking and information:
http://sankan.kunaicho.go.jp/english/index.html









Katsura Rikyu (Detached Palace):
Lovely buildings and gardens in Saikyo Ward in Kyoto City.