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Kyoto Station Area, Central Kyoto, Eastern Kyoto, North-Eastern Kyoto & North-Western Kyoto

Kyoto

Tony Clemens
2005-08-31 22:08:29

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standing 38m high, 76m long and 58m wide. Most of the temples also have a small stone basin with flowing water inside a pavilion to wash your hands and rinse your mouth before prayers. Use the bamboo ladles provided. Some of these pavilions can be very elaborate.

Another block east are the Shosei-en gardens which were completed in 1657. Apparently not the most impressive garden in Kyoto but admission is free and a nice escape from the industrial look of the city near Kyoto Station.

There are many branches of Buddhism which was introduced from China via Korea in the 6th century. The Japanese rationalised the coexistence of Buddhism with ShintÅ� by considering Buddha to be a deity from China. ShintÅ� gods are enshrined in Buddhist temples as protectors of the Buddha and Buddhist statues are included on ShintÅ� altars.

Central Kyoto Area

The area called the central district is based on the area that was enclosed around a 16th century defensive wall. This area includes the main business area with office buildings, department stores, banks, restaurants etc and resembles any other Japanese city but it does contain several major sites.

First build in 794, the Imperial Palace has being rebuild many times after destruction by fires. The present buildings date from 1855 and ceremonies related to enthronement and other state functions are still held here. Some Kyoto citizens think that as long as the Imperial Palace is maintained the royal family will someday return to Kyoto.

To tour the grounds you need to make a reservations which is a lot easier for foreigners than locals, often the same day. We showed up about 5 minutes before the English tour was to begin, tours are at 10am and 2pm. While on your tour you will see the main ceremonial hall (Shishin-den) with the throne where the emperor sits for formal occasions. ...