Kyoto

Kyoto is a city in Japan that served as the country’s imperial capital from 794 until 1868. It is known for its historic temples, shrines, gardens, and traditional arts.

Kinkaku-ji: A Zen Buddhist temple in Kyoto whose Golden Pavilion is covered in gold leaf. Its pavilion is among Kyoto’s best-known expressions of aristocratic taste and Buddhist architecture.
Heian-kyō: The capital established in 794 at the site of present-day Kyoto, designed on a grid inspired by Chang’an. Kyoto began as Heian-kyō, the planned seat of imperial government.
Buddhism in Japan: The development and practice of Buddhist traditions in Japan since their arrival in the sixth century. Buddhist institutions shaped Kyoto’s temples, rituals, and cultural history.
Kyoto Protocol: An international climate treaty adopted in 1997 that set binding emissions targets for many industrialized countries. The treaty took its name from the city where it was adopted.
Fushimi Inari-taisha: A Shinto shrine in Kyoto dedicated to Inari, with thousands of vermilion torii gates along its trails. Its gates mark a major pilgrimage route through Kyoto’s sacred landscape.
Emperor Kanmu: The Japanese emperor who moved the capital to Heian-kyō in 794. His relocation established Kyoto’s role as the imperial capital.
Shinto: Japan’s indigenous religious traditions, centered on kami and practices at shrines. Shinto shrines and festivals form another foundation of Kyoto’s sacred geography.
Kyoto International Manga Museum: A museum and research center in Kyoto devoted to manga and its history. It illustrates the city’s role in preserving and presenting modern Japanese culture.
Kiyomizu-dera: A Buddhist temple in eastern Kyoto, famous for its wooden stage overlooking the city. Its hillside setting connects religious practice with one of Kyoto’s defining urban views.
Heian period: A period of Japanese history from 794 to 1185, marked by court rule from Heian-kyō. Kyoto’s early political and artistic identity took shape during this era.

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