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. |
- Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Nara City, Nara Prefecture - December 15th (Mon)-18th (Thur), 2008 Kasuga Wakamiya Onmaturi Festival was originally inaugurated in 1136 by Fujiwara-no-Tadamichi, who was Kampaku (chief adviser to the Emperor), to pray for bountiful harvests in the country and people's good health. During the festival, various classical art performances are dedicated to the Kasuga Taisha Shrine including Kagura and Bugaku (a court dance and performance with musical instruments), which is designated as Important Intangible Cultural Property of Folk Culture.  http://www.kasugataisha.or.jp/ (Japanese version only) |
- Arashiyama Nakanoshima Park, Togetsukyo / In front of Tenryuji Temple / the streets of Sagano / Temples and Shrines in and around the Arashiyama and Saganao areas (Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture) - December 12th (Fri)-21st (Sun), 2008 The Arashiyama Hanatouro is being held in the Sagano and Arashiyama areas - areas with an atmosphere that reminds visitors of the romantic period of ancient aristocracy. The silhouetted Mount Ogurayama at dusk is a beautiful site to behold and the Togetsukyo Bridge against a background of lights seems to hang just like a bright pendant. Predicted to attract a large number of visitors, the Hanatouro event is destined to become a major event during wintertime in Kyoto. http://www.hanatouro.jp/e/ |
- Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture - November 13th (Thur)-December 7th (Sun), 2008 The famous "stage of Kiyomizu" and the west gate of the temple will both be illuminated against a backdrop of red momiji leaves so famous around the ancient religious site. A traditional Japanese garden usually closed to visitors will also be opened. http://www.kiyomizudera.or.jp/ (Japanese version only) |
- Jingo-ji Temple, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture - 5pm-8pm (5pm-9pm on Friday and Saturday), October 31st (Fri)-November 30th (Sun), 2008 Takao, Kyoto, offers one of the most famous autumn foliage scenes in Japan. Green leaf illuminations have been held here in recent years, and this year for the first time red leaves will also be illuminated. The picturesque valley view, glimmering stream and autumn leaves are must-see attractions. http://www.kyo-takao.com/ (Japanese version only) |
- In the valley of Hozukyo; from Sagano in Kyoto City to Kameoka City, Kyoto Prefecture - March 1st (Sat)-December 29th (Mon), 2008 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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