Kyoto

Kyoto is the old capital of Japan. This city, which is a symbol of Japanese culture and tradition, is situated among the mountains of the western part of Honshu Island. Kyoto is located in a beautiful valley that is surrounded on three sides by hills. The town was built so that the entrance is part of the south side, and the main Imperial Palace - from the north. For long Kyoto keep the reputation for most beautiful city in the country.

From the beginning of the 8th century it is the Capital of the Japanese Empire. But apart from the ancient spirit embodied in many imperial palaces, old houses, temples and beautiful fruit trees Kyoto today is a modern and trendy city. About 1 5 million people live here, yet the tradition of tea ceremonies and geishas are kept.

The first impression of the city comes after you get off the station. Around you will raise the power of the growing city with modern glass skyscrapers. Once you approach and continue your walk, beautiful temples and parks will instantly make you feel that there is a clash between modern life and ancient traditional Japanese style here.

This huge city is divided into 11 quarters in which you can visit hundreds of historical landmarks. Restaurants and nightlife are also great here.

Required here is a tour visiting the area known as the Higashiyama. Here you can see the Kiyomizu-dera temple that was built on a hill with steep slopes. Particularly attractive to visitors is its wooden platform, which hangs over the cliff.

In the 8th century with the spread of Buddhism, its followers tried to interfere in government policy, and the Emperor decided to move the capital away from the Buddhist influence.

In 794, the new capital is Heyankio. Later it was renamed Kyoto and remained the capital of Japan until it moved in 1868 to Edo (now Tokyo).

During World War II, Kyoto is spared by the bombs of the Americans. Today, it is the only major city in Japan, in which still can be seen Machia - traditional Japanese houses.