Spared the ravages of WWII, (Kyoto fortunately avoided the fires that swept other cities) so many ancient temples and shrines remain standing and have been thus able to retain their true character. This slice of fortune has lead directly to Kyoto retaining some of Japan's best sightseeing spots with many of them only enhanced by the changes in the seasons that seem to envelop them throughout the year. Various traditions and works of art were initiated and developed in Kyoto over the centuries and over 70 kinds of high-quality craft products are still made in the city today. These include the renowned Nishijinori, Kyoyuzen, Kyoningyo and Kyosensu works among others with all associated production techniques being passed down to the artists of today by the experts of yesterday. Another side effect of the magnificent history, culture and climate of Kyoto is the unique local cuisine. Elaborate and seasonal, Kyoto's finest cuisine always offers that perfect culinary journey along the avenues of Japanese food of days gone by. |
- Arashiyama area, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture - December 11th (Fri)-20th (Sun), 2009 Lighting time: 5:00pm - 8:30pm A 5-km street in the Saga and Arashiyama areas is illuminated with lanterns, which make a romantic Japanese atmosphere, and decorated with large ikebana works – Japanese traditional art flower arrangement – against the backdrop of beautiful landscapes comprising the river, bamboo groves, historic and cultural sites, and hills. This is sure to fascinate visitors and entice them to walk along this magical way.  http://www.hanatouro.jp/ |
- Minamiza Theater, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture - November 30th (Mon)-December 26th (Sat), 2009 Popular Kabuki actors gather annually at Kyoto's "Minamiza," the oldest theater in Japan and located near the site kabuki is said to have originated. The Kichirei-Kaomise Kogyo, a famous performance held each year since the Edo Period (1603-1867) is advertised by "maneki-kanban" (boards on which actors' names are written in a special font) and is very popular for its beautiful staging. http://www.shochiku.co.jp/ (Japanese version only) |
- Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture - November 12th (Thur)-December 6th (Sun), 2009 (starting at 6:30pm, admission closes at 9:30pm) The famous "stage of Kiyomizu" and the west gate of the temple, as well as the main building, will be illuminated against a backdrop of red momiji leaves, under the night sky of this ancient capital every year. A traditional Japanese garden Jojuin, known as the "Moon Garden," which is usually closed to visitors will also be specially opened. http://www.kiyomizudera.or.jp/lightup.html (Japanese version only) |
- In the valley of Hozukyo; from Sagano in Kyoto City to Kameoka City, Kyoto Prefecture - March 1st (Sun)-December 29th (Tue), 2009 The Sagano Sightseeing Tram operation, not in service during the mid-winter (December 30th-February 28th), restarts operations as the days become longer and spring is just around the corner. This 7.3km, former Sanin-Honsen line between Saga and Kameoka enables passengers to enjoy the beautiful Hozukyo Valley with its 8 tunnels and ever changing views. http://www.sagano-kanko.co.jp/eng/index.htm |
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