The city of Kyoto (in Japanese - Kyo: to-si) is one of those must-see places to get the most complete impression of the culture and history of the country. Kyoto's photo helps to understand how romantic this corner is, how many beautiful parks, squares and palaces there are, as well as ancient temples and churches, among which almost two dozen are under the protection of UNESCO. All this is amazingly combined with the urban landscape, complementing the beauty of the local landscapes.
Location
The city of Kyoto is located in the center of the island of Honshu, in the Kansai region, in the southwestern part of the prefecture of the same name, of which it is the center. The map of Japan shows that Kyoto is located on the lands of the Kyoto depression, surrounded by mountains, whose faults are its borders.
History of the city
Kyoto is one of the most ancient cities in Japan. Previously, it was called Heianke, which means "City of Peace and Tranquility." From the VIII century until 1868, Kyoto was the capital of the country and the seat of the official imperial residence. For many centuries, he was spiritual and cultural center Japan. During the Second World War, Kyoto miraculously survived the destruction and was able to maintain its appearance and extraordinary originality.
Climate and nature
Due to the location of the city in a depression and inaccessibility of the sea, the climate in Kyoto is temperate inland. Summer is hot and humid, in August the air temperature reaches + 33 ° C. In winter, on the other hand, it is dry and cold, and the temperature drops below 0 ° C. The rainy season lasts from June to September in Kyoto. In general, in the off-season, the weather is rather mild and warm, therefore, to visit the city - the periods from March to May and from September to November. Delicious cherry blossoms bloom in April, and in November comes Momiji, the season of the crimson maple tree, when thousands of maples paint the parks of Kyoto in scarlet and yellow tones. Another feature of the city is that here you can see an amazing combination of local structures and landscape features - mountains and slopes.
Kyoto landmarks in Japan
The city offers its visitors a great variety interesting placesthat will tell you about the art, culture and traditions of the Japanese people. So what to see in Kyoto:
- ... It has a large number of exhibits from monasteries and Shinto temples, helps to better learn about the stages of the development of art in the country. In total, the collection contains more than 12 thousand exhibits, of which 230 belong to the national treasures of Japan. This museum is included in the TOP-3 of the most famous museums in the country. It was erected at the end of the 19th century, during the Meiji era. The museum complex is built of red brick in the French Renaissance style.
- . Its second name is "Temple of the Resting Dragon". It is famous for the Garden of stones for meditation of monks built in it in 1450. Nearby there is a pond with sidori ducks, symbolizing love and loyalty. The Reanji Temple is both protected by UNESCO and owned by the Rinzai sect.
- ("Kinkaku-Ji"). Located in the northwest of the city. It belongs to the number of Buddhist temples "Rokuon-ji" ("Temple of the deer garden"). The pavilion is a three-storey building, the two upper floors are covered with sheets of pure gold and urushi lacquer. In the middle of the last century, the building completely burned down, then it was restored, and in 2003 it was restored. Today the Golden Pavilion is on the list World heritage UNESCO.
- ("Kyoto Gose").It was the seat of the imperial family until 1868, when the state capital was moved from Kyoto to. The building began to be erected in the 7th century, it was burned and restored several times, its appearance changed depending on the era of the emperor. The last reconstruction dates back to the middle of the 19th century. The palace complex is surrounded by gardens called the "Imperial Park". The palace includes, in addition to the main throne room "Sisin", the halls of the empress, princes and princesses, mother-empress, etc.
- Buddhist temple complex Otovasan ("Temple of Pure Water"). It is located on the slope of Mount Otova next to a waterfall, the waters of which have healing powers. The temple includes a prayer hall, a pagoda, rooms for sutras, etc. The main deity is the goddess Kannon, who is in the altar.
- A Shinto temple in Kyoto of the late 19th century with high gates and a luxurious territory decorated in accordance with all the feng shui traditions. The temple is surrounded on all sides by Meiji gardens.
- ("Ginkaku-Ji"). It was built at the end of the 15th century and is an amazing treasury of Japan. The pavilion is wooden, it was never covered with sheets of silver. Visitors' attention is drawn to the traditional tea room and the keyhole windows on the second floor. From these windows it is convenient to observe the full moon, as well as to look at the panorama of the Zen garden, on the sand of which the “ West Lake"And" Mount Fuji ".
- Geisha Quarter in Gion. In this quarter, people still live according to medieval traditions.
- Kabuki Theater - Minamiza The oldest theater in the country, where you can personally see the traditions of the ancestors of modern Japanese. The modern building was built in 1929 and has preserved the atmosphere and cultural heritage of Japan.
Entertainment
Holidays in Kyoto offer the following opportunities:
- The most famous area of \u200b\u200bKyoto is Gion. Here you can see live the above-mentioned real geisha and their students, as well as the Kabuki-Minamiza theater.
- In Shirakawa Minami-Dori, it is interesting to look at the old houses and get to know the local entertainment clubs.
- For young people, the very popular local club Taku Taku is a great option, where pop and rock music is played live.
- Among the museums, Onishi Seiwemon presents a very interesting exposition, which tells about all the intricacies of the tea ceremony, and where you can see examples of comics, which are used to create anime in the future.
Accommodation and meals
The city abounds with the most, for example, Hyatt Regency Kyoto, Kyoto Tokyu Hotel, Dormy Inn Premium Kyoto. In Kyoto there are also traditional Japanese hotels - ryokans, where you can get to know better local characteristics culture and life. The third option is to spend the night at the shukubo temple, paying approximately $ 40 per night.
Kyoto is home to a wide variety of restaurants and is considered the culinary capital of Japan. For a hearty meal, the Kaiseki option is perfect, offering a multi-course meal. The cost will depend on the level of the restaurant. For example, at Giro Giro Hitoshina you will have to pay $ 40 per person, and at Kikunoi it will cost almost $ 160. Tenryu-ji Shigetsu Restaurant offers a wide selection of vegetarian dishes. Honke Owariya offers Japanese udon and soba noodles. The best bars in the city are found on Pontoco dori.
Shopping in the city
Kyoto has both luxury boutiques offering expensive designer items and much more modest family shops selling souvenirs, household items and goodies. The largest shopping area is located on Shijo Street and Nishiki Market in the city center. The shops here are mostly open from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, with weekends on Wednesday or Sunday. Near JR Kyoto Station is the Porta Shopping Center, and to the south is another center, Aeon. There are also flea markets in Kyoto where you can buy everything from groceries to art and antiques.
Transport
Kyoto has two subway lines, several train lines, trams and a large bus network. Most of the city is located at a distance from the metro and railway stations, so the most common mode of transport for tourists is bus. Bus map is sold at the Tourist Information Office in the Kyoto Tower opposite railway station. Most of buses operate from 7:00 to 21:00, but there are also routes carrying passengers from 5:30 to 23:00. They enter them through the back door, go out through the front door, pay the fare at the exit. The cost of the trip averages $ 2.75. If you plan to travel a lot, you can buy a daily pass for $ 15, which also works on the metro.
There are quite a few taxis in Kyoto. A ride on them is beneficial for a small company and for short distances. The cost depends on the length of the route. For the first 2 km you will be charged $ 7.25, then about $ 2 per 1 km. Taxi doors are automatic. If you forgot something in the car, you will be provided with compensation for the lost one.
How to get there?
It is not difficult to visit Kyoto on your own, as there are several options for how to get there. In Kyoto, no, so you need to choose a route through or Tokyo. Osaka is the largest in the Kansai region. It has trains every half hour (fare 650 yen or $ 5.7) and buses every 20 minutes (1280 yen or $ 11.2). If you are looking for how to get to Kyoto from Tokyo, then the route looks like this: fly to, then take the Narita Express train to Shinanawa station, and from there take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Kyoto (2.5 hours on the way). The distance between Tokyo and Kyoto is 540 km.
Geographical names of the world: Toponymic dictionary. - M: AST... Pospelov E.M. 2001.
Kyoto
(Kyōto in translation - "capital city"), a city in Japan, to the center. h. about. Honshu. Together with cities Osaka and Kobe forms the core of the prom. the Keihanshin zone. 1 million 390 thousand inhabitants (1998). Founded in 794. Designed after the model of the then capital of China, Chang'an (now Xi'an). In the past it was called Heian-kyo (794–1192), Miyako , Saikyo ... Capital of Japan in 794-1868, then renamed. in Kyoto. Preserved its historical appearance thanks to the ban on the construction of high-rise buildings. Rectangular layout; center. Karasuma-dori street, stretching from south to north, divides the city in half. Streets perpendicular to it are named by serial numbers, incl. the busiest Shijodori (4th street). OK. 2 thousand monuments, many were given the status of nat. treasures or valuable cultural property. Over 400 Shinto and approx. 1,660 Buddhist temples, and approx. 90 Christian churches (the center of one of the three dioceses of Japan orthodox Church); monasteries, incl. Ryoanji with the famous Rock Garden; pavilions Kinkakuji ("golden pavilion") with a landscape garden (XIV-XVI centuries) and Ginkakuji ("silver pavilion", late 15th century); the imperial palace (restored in 1789 on the model of the 9th century); Nijo Castle-Palace (1603); palace ensembles Katsura (1620s) and Shugakuin; Gion quarter with a school and a geisha theater. The Japanese strive to visit Korea at least once in their lives; almost a third of the country's population visits it every year. Large bargaining., Finance. and prom. center; prevailing environments. and small businesses. Traditional crafts: kimono fabrics, ceramics, embroidery, lacquer and porcelain products, fans, dolls, jewelry. A high-speed railway line passes through K. etc. Shinkansen and the expressway. The first tram in Japan was launched here (1895). Metropolitan (1981). More than 40 colleges and universities. K. is the birthplace of traditional Japanese drama. Many theaters; organized annually approx. 40 holidays and festivals. In Uji, approx. 10 km to the SE. from K., - the Hodo pavilion ("Phoenix", 1052) in the Byodoin temple (Heian era).
Dictionary of modern geographical names... - Yekaterinburg: U-Factoria. Under the general editorship of Acad. V. M. Kotlyakova. 2006 .
Kyoto
Kyoto - a city of temples and monasteries, the heart ancient land Yamato. Kyoto is considered the epitome of Japanese culture. Modernity here not only did not overshadow antiquity, but merged with it into a single whole. Sudden leaps from a noisy civilization to the carefully guarded silence of palaces, gardens and temples in Kyoto at every turn. Timeless beauty is a common expression that comes up when you get to know Kyoto.
The city either fell victim to internecine wars and fires, or it flourished as the center of Japanese politics, economy and culture. The waves of history have washed away many unique buildings, but what remains is amazing. The 1.96 million inhabitants of today's Kyoto have about 2000 temples (17 of which are protected by UNESCO), hundreds of parks, and dozens of ancient palaces. One-fifth of those listed as national treasures architectural monuments and about the same share of especially valuable works of art in Japan (cm. Japan) concentrated in Kyoto. The city is called the Museum of Antiquity and National Treasury.
A special charm of Kyoto is given by the unique harmony of all its numerous structures with the surrounding landscape. Temples and palaces seem to grow out of the waters of lakes and hillsides, only emphasizing the natural beauty of the landscape. These places are considered the highest phase in the development of the Japanese art of "merging with nature." Kyoto was founded in 792-794. and until 1868 (for 1074 years) it was officially considered the capital of the country and the residence of the emperor.
For cult (and not only) considerations, the imperial residence was moved to another place with each new ruler. In 784, Emperor Kammu (781-806) and the powerful Fujiwara family who came to power conceived the transfer of the country's capital to the area of \u200b\u200bmodern Kyoto from the neighboring city of Nara. The village of Uda in Kadono County was chosen for the construction of the new capital. Initially this place was called Heian-ke - "Capital of Peace and Tranquility". In 793, they began to build here new town according to Chinese models of urban planning art. The city had the shape of a rectangle strictly oriented to the cardinal points. In the center was the imperial palace, from which stretched an avenue 80 m wide, dividing the capital into eastern and western halves. Avenues straight as arrows crossed wide streets at right angles. The streets were not given any names, they were simply numbered, starting from the north, where the vast palace quarter was located. The ambitious project could not be fully implemented. The city gradually expanded and was built up with palaces, temples, monasteries, and artisan people flocked there. Traders opened their shops and exchange offices there. The monasteries around Heian have turned it into a major religious center. The city remained the center of spiritual and political life from 794 to 1185. (Heian period).
In the history of the city of Kyoto, the 11th century stands out, which is called golden: it was at that time that world-famous works of Japanese classical literature were written - "The Tale of Genji" by Murasaki Shikibu and "Notes at the Headboard" by Sei Senagon. In 1177, Heian burned to the ground and was rebuilt and renamed Kyoto (Capital City). But the residence of the shoguns from the Minamoto clan moved to Kamakura. In 1333, power was conquered by the feudal lords of the southwestern regions of Honshu from the Ashikaga clan, and the capital was again moved to Heian (north of the old center, to the Muromachi region). The Muromachi period began (1333-1573).
The city has gone through a difficult, at times difficult fate. For some time it was possessed by warlike hordes of monks, then it became a victim of the shogun's army and endless feuds of various princely clans. When Oda Nobunaga conquered this city in 1569, he found it in a deplorable state. Nobunaga and his successor Toyotomi Hideyoshi spared no expense in rebuilding the city. And although, remaining only the seat of the emperor, with the increased influence of the shogun capital Edo (Tokyo) during the Tokugawa reign, Kyoto could no longer achieve its former significance, it still remains undeniable cultural capital Japan.
The symbols of Kyoto are also considered to be the Rokuonji temple lying on the shore of the picturesque "mirror" lake, palace ensemble Katsura (17th century), and Tenryuji Temple (14th century). The Katsura Rikyu Imperial Villa (1624) is still used by members of the imperial family living in Tokyo. Visiting the villa requires a permit from the Imperial Household Department, which must be waited for several weeks. A visit to the villa is calculated by the minute and consists of a short walk along the intricately winding paths of the park, from each bend of which new views open up. Stone lanterns, bridges, pavilions, gazebos harmoniously fit into the surrounding landscape. The park was conceived for walking and admiring the scenery. In some places on the strip of paths flat stones are dug into the ground - this is how the places from which especially beautiful garden landscapes open: miniature " mountain passes"," Waterfalls "," seashores ", picturesque" villages ". In the center of the villa, there are three sein pavilions, set on rather high piles ې Ր ݐݑː. They not only remind of the origin of the distant ancestors of the Japanese from the rainforests South-East Asia, but also protect the Katsura River from frequent floods. There is also a lake in the garden, without which it is impossible to imagine a traditional Japanese garden.
The famous tea ceremony master, poet and garden architect Kobori Enshu, who agreed to lay out the park, set three conditions for the Tokugawa dynasty shogun: not to limit funds; do not rush to deadlines; do not let anyone in until the work is complete. Only in 1624, four years after the start of work, the first visitors entered the paths of the Katsura villa, since then voices of admiration have not died down. Currently, the complete restoration of the villa has been completed, which required six years of hard work by dozens of specialists.
One of the great monasteries in Kyoto is Tofukuji ("Temple of the Treasures of the East"), built in 1236 and rebuilt after a fire in the 15th century. Tofukuji, in addition to gentle hills, a river, a graceful bridge and remarkable architecture, is also famous for its well-chosen collection of traditional paintings.
On the high cliff of Mount Otova, the temple of Kiyomizu-dara ("Temple of Pure Water") with a ritual waterfall was built dedicated to the goddess Kannon. The temple was founded in 798 and was last rebuilt in 1633. Not far from it stands the oldest Shinto shrine in Kyoto - Yasaka-jinja, which is associated with the Gion holiday, which dates back to 869, when he celebrated the deliverance of the city's inhabitants from the epidemic plague.
The oldest temple of Kyoto To-ji was built two years after the founding of the city, and in 823 it became the residence of the founder of the Shingon sect Kobo Daishi. The main hall is one of the largest religious buildings. The five-tiered pagoda (56 m) is the tallest in Japan. The treasury contains a large collection of priceless painting scrolls and other art objects. The Kyoto Tower houses a tourist information center.
Higashi-Hongan Monastery (Higashi-Hongan-ji) is the seat of Otani, a branch of the Jodo-Shin sect. Almost all of the buildings date back to the 19th century, but are replicas of the Momoyama-style buildings. Special attention should be paid to the reconstruction of the magnificent Tokushi Gate, intended exclusively for the imperial ambassadors, originally located in the legendary Hideyoshi Castle in Fushimi near Kyoto. The Sosei Garden (Sosei-en) was the residence of the abbot of the Kikokutei Monastery. It contains part of the original buildings of the palace in Fushimi, transferred here after Hideyoshi's death. The landscape garden is partly the work of Kobori Enshu.
The Nishi-Hongan Temple (Nishi-Hongan-ji), the seat of the second half of the Jodo-Shin sect divided by Ieyasu, was built in 1272 and moved to its present place in 1591. In the Main Hall (1760) there is a statue of Buddha-Amida. A huge hall for state ceremonies and social receptions of Hideyoshi - Shiro-Sein. Living and guest rooms are named according to the decoration (Peacock, Vorobyinaya or Weeping Willow room). All premises are distinguished by extremely expensive finishes. On the gilded background of the sliding doors, famous artists and woodcarvers of the Kano school left images of plants, animals, landscapes in all their colorful diversity. Splendid, partly painted carvings adorn the top of the wooden door frame and coffered ceiling.
In the southeastern part of the temple, there is the Hiun-kaku pavilion, which is a tea house, a bathhouse and Hideyoshi's recreation room, which is somewhat hidden from view. Upstairs is a small room for observing the moon. The asymmetrical two-story building of unpainted wood with its paper sliding doors gives the impression of a deliberately designed counterbalance to heavy, massive public buildings with its soulful elegance.
In the southwestern part of the city is the Sanju-sangendo Temple. "Sanju-san" means "33" - this is the number of identical intermediate rooms between the columns, symbolizing the 33 steps of the incarnation of the goddess Kannon in man. Inside the hall is a long row of 1001 small Kannon statues and 28 figures of her devotees. One of the most significant works of art of the Heian era, the statue of a thousand-armed Kannon (height 3 m) was created in 1254 by the famous Japanese sculptor Tankei. Not far from the temple is the National Museum (Kokuritsu Hakubutsukan), with a rich collection of Japanese art and history. Almost all of the exhibits were donated to the museum by the monasteries and Shinto shrines of the Kansai region. One of the most beautiful temples in the city, Kiyomizu-dera, is located almost 2 km northeast of the National Museum on a mountainside. The buildings of the temple founded in 805 belong to the Momoyama period. A bold vertical wooden structure 50 m high supports an artificial platform on the steep slope of the mountain, on which the temple stands. A wonderful view of Kyoto opens from here.
Among the most exquisite sights of Kyoto is the two-tiered "Silver Pavilion" (Ginkaku-ji), built in 1489 as the country residence of Shogun Yoshimasa Ashikaga, and after his death turned into a monastery. The Silver Pavilion was conceived in unison with the Golden Pavilion. The tea room in the four and a half tatami pavilion is considered a classic example of such spaces. A room on the second floor, distinguished by its typical Zen keyhole windows, was intended for secluded observation of the full moon. From here you can see the Zen Garden below. Smooth white sand with a geometrically precise truncated cone depict the Chinese West Lake and Mount Fuji. A temple, a sandy and moss garden, a spacious park turning into a mountain forest, paths and gates - all this forms an airy and aesthetic unity that is closed in itself, which can very rarely be found in such a perfect form.
The historical center of the city is the exquisite old imperial palace of Gose (founded in 794, the current building was built in 1855). Since the Meiji Restoration, the Emperor himself has been here only occasionally. Gose (literally "highly revered place") is located in the depths of a huge garden (area of \u200b\u200b84 hectares), which is surrounded by a long white covered stone wall, divided into equal squares by brown vertical logs. There are several main gates in the palace; visitors can only pass through Kogo-Homon and Seisemon. The gate at the southern entrance (Kenrei-mon) was used only when especially important and solemn ceremonies were held in the main building of the palace. In our time, these gates are opened for viewing by the general public only twice a year, only the emperor can pass through them.
Imperial palace changed its location and rebuilt several times. For Emperor Kammu in 795, the Daidairi Palace (Great Imperial Palace) was built on the northern outskirts of the city. Not even ashes remained from this palace. Where Gose is now located, Sato-dairi was located - a small rural palace in which the emperor hid from all the troubles and misfortunes that happened in Daidairi. Gose became the official imperial residence under Emperor Kogon in 1331. 28 generations of Japanese emperors lived in Gose until Emperor Meiji moved to Edo on November 26, 1868. After numerous fires, the palace was restored in 1855 to its original beauty and grandeur. It consists of 18 separate buildings connected by covered corridors. Japanese palace architecture (as well as the architecture of monasteries) presupposes the existence of various buildings designed to perform specific functions.
Gose is an example of a combination of Chinese splendor and Japanese sophistication. The compositional center of the palace is Shishinden (built in the late 8th - early 9th centuries and reconstructed in the 19th century) - the "Great Hall of Ceremonies" or "Throne Hall", where emperors were erected in a solemn atmosphere. Like the Buddhist temples of that time, this building has a high roof with smooth outlines, concave, like in China, but with more calm and restrained lines. Under the eaves of the building there is a gallery surrounded by a small veranda. The façade faces south; a large, gently sloping staircase leads to the entrance, on both sides of which, like in the Heian palace, sakura is planted on the left, and a tangerine tree on the right. Enclosed in a bamboo fence, they look like flowers in a basket. The garden is covered with white pebbles and is lined with a rake strictly along geometric lines directed towards the facade of the building.
Shishinden's interior is simple and majestic. The smooth, polished planks of the floor reflect the massive round pillars — unpainted but carefully lined and polished tree trunks. On a dais under a huge tent stands the imperial throne (takamikura) of lacquered red sandalwood with mother-of-pearl inlay, crowned by the Phoenix bird. The smaller throne behind it is reserved for the Empress.
To the northwest of Shishinden is the Seireden complex (former living quarters of the emperor), which has been used for palace ceremonies since the middle of the Heian period. The façade of this building faces east towards another sand garden. The entire building is erected above the ground on low supports, as in ancient Shinto shrines, and is surrounded by a veranda with two small stairs that descend into the garden. And this building has an imperial throne.
A sacred mirror was kept in the Shunkoden Palace during the coronation of Emperor Taise (Yoshihito). Emperor Showa (Hirohito) also began his throne path in Kyoto. Two other imperial insignia - a sword and jasper pendants - were kept at Kenji no ma. The solemn ceremony of enthronement of Akihito, in compliance with all ancient rituals, was already held at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo. The complex included a picturesque landscaped garden with ponds, islands, rocks, bridges and gazebos. In the inner garden of the palace there is a tea house located on an artificially created hill. To the east is the Osuzumise pavilion, where the emperor escaped from the summer heat. To the north of it is Tesetsu, a house for a tea ceremony, you can go there from Osuzumise through a gallery. There is also a pond with a wooden bridge on the territory of the palace. And in the Sannai-den palace, the emperor and members of the imperial family exchanged New Year's greetings, from here they watched the New Year's performance. The palace is a national treasure of Japan and the property of the imperial family. The palace was opened to the general public in 1946. Twice a year, in spring and autumn, during the week you can get here with a guided tour.
To the southwest of the Imperial Palace is the luxurious castle of the Tokugawa house - Nijo (1603, area - 275 thousand sq. M) with the classic Japanese gardens - Ninomaru and Seiryu-en. The numerous buildings of the castle are connected by covered corridors and surrounded by massive walls and moats, similar to defensive fortresses. The buildings with moderately protruding black roofs and gilded gables fit naturally into the spacious, light-flooded landscaped garden. Inner palace Ninomaru is famous for the unique system of "naruita" or "uguisu-bari" ("singing" floorboards - boards, when stepped on, emit a warning signal). The ancient silk quarter of Nishijin is located 2 km north of Nijo Palace. In the narrow alleys one can see silkworms under open air, for which Kyoto has long been famous, and where the traditional nishijin-ori - textiles with bright colored threads, are woven.
To the southeast of the Imperial Palace is the Heian Temple (Heian-jingu), built in 1895 for the 1100th anniversary of the city's founding. The temple is an exact reduced copy of the 794 Imperial Palace (on a 5: 8 scale), built in the Chinese style, that is, according to a strictly symmetric plan. The gate to the left of the main building leads into a very large and beautifully landscaped garden. Okazaki Park (Okazaki-koen) adjoins the temple from the south. The Museum of Art and the Museum are located here contemporary art... On the opposite side of the street is Teatr no (Kanjo-kaikan). The most famous temples of the city, open to the public, are located in the northwest of Kyoto.
One of the main temples of the Zen Buddhist Rinzai sect is Daitoku-ji. The temple, consisting of 23 structures, occupies a vast territory isolated from the city. The Tokushi-mon Gate features a curved thatched roof - originally part of the old Imperial Palace. Ka-ra-mon Gate - The rich Baroque style of the Muromachi period was brought from Hideyoshi's palace in Fusumi. The two-story gates Sam-mon - the creation of the greatest master of the tea ceremony Sen-no-Rikyu (1521-1591) - stand out for their severity and clarity of style.
The small Dai-sen (Daisen-in) temple in the Daitoku-ji ensemble and with its world famous four-part rock garden and all its buildings showcases Zen architecture in its purest form. Here all rooms are united under one roof - in accordance with the principles of simplicity, clarity and practical functionality. The trend towards compactness in the possessions of the samurai (Buke-zu-kuri) was dictated by security considerations, in the houses of urban merchants - elementary economy. But in Dai-sen-in, architecture strictly follows religious principles.
The four Gardens of Stones around the temple have completely different "characters". The garden called "The Great Ocean" consists exclusively of sand and small pebbles. The second, smallest garden is also completely dry - without a single plant; a certain arrangement of stones has many interpretations. The third garden is a wild rocky landscape with rare trees and bushes. The last garden, the "Middle Ocean", is very strictly and sparingly decorated with a single tree and bush. Despite numerous interpretations, all four gardens do not impose anything on the visitor, but serve only as a quiet place for meditation.
To the west is one of the best examples of Japanese national architecture and one of the most widespread symbols of Kyoto, the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), erected in 1397. All three floors of the pavilion are surrounded by open verandas. The roof is covered with the finest gold plates, and the image of a bronze phoenix is \u200b\u200binstalled on the ridge. This amazing structure, with an adjoining landscaped garden, was acquired by Shogun Yoshimitsu for his residence and converted into a monastery after his death. In 1950 the building was burned down by a mad Zen novice and rebuilt in 1955. The pavilion and the surrounding landscaped garden with a tea house form an aesthetic unity of inimitable beauty.
In 20 minutes. Walking distance from here is the most significant Zen garden in Japan, the Reanji Temple Rock Garden, created in 1473 by the Zen master Soami. Surrounded by a modest tiled clay wall, this dry garden is an unrivaled example of Kare-sansui, a garden of sand and stones. On light gravel, evenly laid with long straight grooves, there are only 15 large, overgrown moss, and small stones, grouped in 5, 2, 3, 2 and 3. The composition is conceived so that the fifteenth stone always slips out of sight, "hiding" behind other stones. White gravel ripples around them in circles, giving the impression of islands in the ocean or mountains rising from the fog. The park surrounding the temple is divided according to the principle of a closed landscape - the mountains outside the walls of the park are deliberately included in the park's layout. This becomes especially clear when viewed from the southern bank of an artificial pond created in the 12th century.
The more famous among the Japanese is the Sambo-in Temple Rock Garden, in which the three most beautiful stones convey “three different moods in the Kamo River. The magnificent moss garden of Saihoji Temple is protected from hordes of tourists not only by high walls and expensive entrance tickets, but also obligatory for all ceremony of rewriting the Buddhist sutra (sacred text).
Kyoto is also home to Japan's oldest kabuki theater - Minamiza (the city is considered the birthplace of this art). The National Museum and the National Museum of Modern Art are worth visiting. Old traditional crafts are also flourishing - the production of lacquer and bronze products, porcelain, lace, embroidery, religious items, the products of which can serve as an excellent souvenir. The city regularly hosts celebrations and numerous religious ceremonies associated with any of the deities or local temples.
Kyoto regularly hosts three major festivals, which are famous not only in Japan but all over the world. These include the Aoi Matsuri festival, which takes place in early summer, the Guyon Matsuri summer festival, and the Jidai Matsuri festival, which takes place in the fall. Kyoto also hosts the Okuribi festival on the five Daimonji hills - held with lighted torches on the night of August 15 in honor of a Buddhist ritual called O-bon or Urabon-e.
Cyril and Methodius Tourism Encyclopedia. 2008 .
Kyoto - the ancient capital of Japan, now the administrative center of Kyoto prefecture, the seventh largest city in the country with a population of about 2 million people.
A bit of history
The city has been the capital of Japan for over 1000 years, from 794. until the early 17th century, during this time many of the finest examples of Japanese art, culture, religion, and philosophical thought were created. About 1600 Buddhist and 600 Shinto temples have survived to this day on this land.
Since ancient times, Kyoto has been the cultural center of the country, and it has not lost this role even now. As the capital of the country, the seat of the Japanese emperor and the court aristocracy, the city became a center of talent: famous artists, poets, writers, as well as people of other creative professions sought to settle here. Since the XIII century. the city also acted as a religious center, various Buddhist schools had their main temples in Kyoto or in the immediate vicinity of the city.
Kyoto was famed for its skillful artisans who made musical instruments, ceramics and porcelain, swords, writing brushes, tea ceremony accessories, gold and silver crafts, accessories for Buddhist altarpieces, high-quality silk products, and paper of the highest quality. Kyoto products had a high reputation and their own distinctive traditional style. The Kyoto quality continues today.
Location
Kyoto is located in the center of Japan and the island of Honshu. 670 km west of Tokyo. The city lies on the banks of the Kamo River, which divides it into western and eastern parts. WITH west side located in the center of modern Kyoto Nakagio district with main shops, bars, cafes. And on the east bank there is an old geisha quarter - Gion.
Kyoto Prefecture stretches from the southeast to the northwest of the central and northern part of the Kansai region. Kyoto is the 31st largest by area. In the north, Kyoto is washed by the Sea of \u200b\u200bJapan and borders with Fukui Prefecture. Kyoto is divided in the middle by the Tamba Mountains, so the climate in the north of Kyoto is very different from that in the south.
How to get there
Kyoto can be reached from Kansai Airport by the JR "Haruka" Kansai Airport Limited Express train, 1h16min;
From Tokyo Station on Shinkansen ( high-speed train) the JR "Nozomi" line takes 2.5 hours;
From Hakata Station on the JR "Nozomi" Shinkansen, 3 hours on the way
Climate
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Kyoto
Modern Kyoto is a history book with many illustrations. And there is, perhaps, no better place for anyone who wants to get acquainted in detail not only with the history of Japan, but also with its culture, religion, traditions, craft, architecture. In Kyoto, ancient monuments are mixed with modern structures.
Here you can meet maiko, young female geisha students dressed in characteristic long-sleeved kimonos, stroll through the ancient streets, visit the Nishijin weavers' quarter, where the traditional Japanese Nishijin-ori textiles with brightly colored threads are produced.
Also Kyoto is famous all over the world for its festivals. The three main festivals are May Aoi Matsuri, Gion Matsuri in July and October Jidai Matsuri. A completely unique and incredibly spectacular festival, Daimonji Gozan Okuribi, is held every year on August 16 in Kyoto, as part of the O-bon festival. The most important event of the festival is the lighting of fires on the slope of Niyoygatake Mountain in the Higashiyama mountain range. With the onset of darkness, at about 8 pm, a huge number of bonfires in the form of huge hieroglyphs are lit on the mountainside.
And undoubtedly Kyoto attracts the attention of the world-famous Golden Pavilion Kinkakuji - the embodiment of exquisite rigor reflected in a mirror lake surrounded by a garden created in the 14th century.
The rock garden of the Ryoanji temple is the chamber of the ensemble, which includes the veranda of the abbot's house, from where they contemplate the garden composition.
"Temple of pure water" - Kiyomizudera, bathing at the ritual waterfall promises you enlightenment of the soul, and the spirit of the goddess Kannon will bring a sense of peace and tranquility. Sanjusangendo - the temple of the goddess Kannon, it took the craftsmen 100 years to complete the grandiose work on the temple for the defender, savior from troubles, robbers, various punishments, from hatred and stupidity.
Districts of Kyoto
Kurama - a rural area in the northern mountains of Kyoto, less than an hour's drive from the city center. The Kurama area is famous for its Kurama-dera temple and its hot springs, it is one of the closest hot spring areas to Kyoto. Along the ascent to Kurama-dera is the Yuki Jin shrine, famous for its Fire Festival (Kurama Hi Matsuri), which is held annually on October 22nd. After passing the main building of the temple further through the forest, past other temple buildings, you can get to Kibune - small city in the neighboring valley. In Kibune, there are several onsen (onsen - hot springs) and restaurants serving food on the terraces along the river during the warmer months. In the Kibune shrine, you can get a unique type of omikuji (divination card), the prediction comes true after the card is lowered into the water.
Kurama can be reached from Kyoto Station on the Eisan Railroad.
Ohara - a rural area in the northern part of Kyoto, approximately one hour from Kyoto Station. The main attraction of the Ohara area is the Sanzen-in Temple. The main object of worship in Ohara is the golden statue of Amida Buddha, standing in Ozo-Gokuraku-in, a wooden temple building located in the depths of a garden overgrown with moss. The most attractive time to visit the temple (however, the most crowded) is in the fall, in mid-late November, when the leaves of the trees in the garden turn bright yellow and red.
Since 2004, Ohara has its own hot spring water, raised from a depth of more than one kilometer. This water is available in two local inns in traditional Japanese style (ryokan) - Ohara-no-Sato and Ohara Sanso.
You can get to Ohara from Kyoto station, you need to take the subway on the Karasuma line to the terminal station Kokusaikan, then take bus number 19 heading to Ohara or Kodeishi to go to Ohara stop.
Toei Uzumasa EigamuraAlso known as Studio Park Kyoto, it is both a film set and an amusement park, often referred to as "Japanese Hollywood". Replicas of traditional Japanese buildings used for historical films and television dramas are shown here: replica of the Nihonbashi Bridge, the traditional courthouse, the Meiji period police station, and partly the Yoshiwara red light district.
There are also several attractions, souvenir shops and exhibitions of popular TV series. You can take a photo in the outfit of a geisha, samurai, etc. (more than 30 different types), not only wearing the appropriate costume, but also a wig, accessories and even using cosmetics.
Eigamura is a 5-minute walk from Uzumasa Station on the Keifuku Arashiyama Line or a 15-minute walk from JR Hanazono Station
Nishiki Market - a narrow shopping street in the center of Kyoto, along which there are more than a hundred shops. A variety of fresh and processed foods are sold here, including traditional Kyoto foods such as pickles (tsukemono), Japanese sweets, dried foods, sushi, fresh seafood and vegetables.
Arashiyama - pleasant, touristy area on the outskirts of Kyoto. One of its main attractions is the wooden (now partly concrete) Togetsukyo Bridge with the wooded Mount Arashiyama in the background.
Gion Is the most famous geisha region in Japan. To see traditional Gion, stroll along Hanami-koji Street, alongside beautiful old buildings, teahouses and restaurants. In the evenings, you can be a geisha student here.
Pontoteux - one of the traditional areas nightlife Kyoto, where you can spend time with a geisha. It is a narrow street, rather a side street, running from Shijo-dori to Sanjo-dori a little west of the Kamo River. It is also the traditional location of the kabuki theater.
Kyoto landmarks
KINKAKUJI - The famous Golden Pavilion is considered the main attraction of the city for most tourists coming to Kyoto. Located in the northern part of Kyoto on the territory of the Rokuonji Buddhist temple complex. Amazingly miniature and elegant, it stands right on the shore big lakereflected in transparent water. Its walls, columns and cornices are completely covered in gold. The building is crowned with a golden phoenix.
Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu (1358-1408) purchased the house of an aristocrat and turned it into his secluded abode, called the Golden Pavilion (1397). Here the shogun spent the last years of his life. Mount Kinugasa rises behind the promenade garden around the pond.
On quiet days, the truly mirrored surface of the lake reflects the magnificent Kinkakuji, and it's hard to say which one is more beautiful - real or reflected. The garden and the pavilion make a special impression after a snowfall.
GINKAKUJI - The Silver Pavilion, another of Japan's greatest treasures. The Ginkakuji Pavilion (real name Jishouji) is considered an unsurpassed example of garden architecture; The temple was originally the mountain retreat of the shogun Yoshimasa. It was built in 1483 in the eastern part of Heian (Kyo) during the reign of the shogun. It was originally supposed that the walls of the Silver Pavilion, which was then called Higashiyama-dono (Palace of Mount Higashiyama), would be covered with silver, just like in the Golden Pavilion - gold. But seeing how beautifully the moonlight plays on the wooden roofs and walls of the palace, he decided to give up silver.
KIYOMIZUDERA TEMPLE (Temple of Clear Water) - The temple is located on Mount Otova, in the Higashiyama area, famous for its temples. The main hall's veranda, created without a single nail, offers stunning views of Kyoto. In 811, the Kiyomizu Temple came under the patronage of the authorities, it was greatly revered by the Imperial House. During its centuries-old history, the temple burned down and was plundered many times during many years of internecine wars. The worst fire happened in 1200, when the main building of the temple was reduced to ash. Most of the temple buildings were restored in 1633 by the order of the shogun Tokugawa Iemitsu and have survived to this day. 
Kiyomizudera is a temple ensemble, which includes many buildings - a prayer hall, a pagoda, a main temple where the main deity is exhibited - the goddess Kannon, a shed for a bell, rooms where sutras are stored, a stall for horses, etc. The entire complex is a national cultural heritage of Japan.
RYOANJI TEMPLE (Peace Dragon Temple) - Located 1 km. from the Golden Pavilion - the most important temple of the Zen sect Rinzai. It was built in 1450. It became a refuge for monks who professed Zen Buddhism. Now the fame of the temple is supported solely by the Zen Buddhist-style rock garden, which is one of the most amazing and famous philosophical gardens. It is believed that the famous master Soami was the author of the Ryoanji garden.
The garden is a small rectangular area (from east to west - 30 m, from south to north - 10 m), covered with white gravel. There are 15 stones on the site, they are organized in five groups. Green moss is planted around each group as a frame. The gravel is "combed" with a rake into fine grooves that can be associated with soft ripples of water. On three sides, the garden is fenced with a low adobe fence. The garden is part of the temple building, so you can approach it only after passing through the temple, and contemplate - only sitting on the veranda of the temple.
NIJO CASTLE - Nijo Castle is listed as a historical relic of Japan, and Ninomaru Palace is declared a national treasure by the Japanese government.
Nijo Castle is open to the public all year round and is one of the most popular attractions in the old capital of Japan - Kyoto. Construction began in 1603 as the official residence of the Tokugawa shoguns during their visits to Kyoto. The third shogun Iemitsu completed the construction in 1626. He also moved here several buildings from the Fushimi castle. The castle covers an area of \u200b\u200b275,000 sq. m, it is surrounded by wide moats filled with water.
There are several buildings on the territory of Nijo Castle, the main of which is Ninomaru Palace. The landmark of the Ninomaru Palace is Uguisu-bari - the nightingale, or singing, floor, it started from the entrance and led to the first large hall. Thanks to cunning devices, wooden boards, when someone moved on them, emitted a creak similar to a bird's chirp, hence the name. The entire palace is decorated in a classic Japanese style. On hot summer days, you can open these doors wide, and then the enclosed space turns into a veranda, from which you can see one of the most beautiful gardens in Japan - the Ninomaru Garden.
Ninomaru Garden is designed in the classic tradition of Japanese gardening art. It is located around a large pond; stones are scattered around the garden, different in shape, size, color.
In the center of the pond there are three islets: Horai-jima (the island of Eternal happiness), Tsuru-jima (the island of Zhuravlya), Kame-jima (the Turtle island). These names were not chosen by chance: according to Chinese, Korean and Japanese mythology, the crane and the turtle were symbols of longevity.
Kyoto Form and Void
Kyoto - a city in Japan, located in the central part of the island of Honshu. For most people who have not visited Japan, Kyoto is synonymous with traditional Japanese culture. Ancient temples, imperial palaces, wooden huts, geisha elegantly pouring tea during a tea ceremony, and cherry blossoms fluttering in the wind are immediately presented. As a matter of fact, in Kyoto you will find this and much more, despite the fact that Kyoto is huge modern city with a population of 1.5 million.
Highlights
Kyoto is a national center for traditional practices like chado (tea ceremony) and ikebana (flower arrangement), the birthplace of kabuki and a leading center for calligraphy, painting and sculpture.
The city plays a unique role in preserving Japanese national identity and is believed to be visited by a third of the country's population every year. Despite this, Kyoto is a surprisingly typical modern city in Japan, with its usual shapeless concrete buildings adjacent to remarkable islands of beauty and culture.
For a thousand years, Kyoto was the cultural and spiritual center of Japanese civilization, the seat of deeply revered emperors from the late 8th century. and before the Meiji Restoration of the late 19th century. Initially, the emperors moved their capital to Kyoto in order to escape from the growing influence of the Buddhist elite in Nara. For a short time, there was even a de facto ban on the construction of Buddhist temples in the new capital. Ironically, the city is now world famous for its temples.
The name of the city is translated as “the capital”, although it was originally called Heiankyo, which means “the capital of tranquility,” because this is how the golden era of Heian, which lasted from the 8th to the 12th centuries, was called “tranquility”. During this period, Kyoto flourished as a center of Japanese culture and creativity. However, his fate changed dramatically in the era of the Warring States. (1467-1568) , the completion of which was in the XVI century. unification of commanders Nobunaga and Hideyoshi.
By and large, the city never recovered from the consequences of Hideyoshi's adoption in the early 17th century. decisions to move the capital to Edo (current Tokyo)... An additional blow came in 1868 when the court moved to Tokyo, the decision of which was made by the young emperor Meiji. And yet the city has remained the custodian of the nation's most outstanding cultural achievements and its architectural heritage.
The Imperial Residences of Kyoto The Kyoto Gosho Imperial Palace and the Katsura and Sugakuin Imperial Villas are must-see places for anyone with even the slightest interest in Japanese architecture, design and aesthetics. However, since all these objects remain the property of the emperor, it is necessary to inquire about the possibility of visiting them at the local department of the Imperial Court Office, which is in charge of all the nuances of life and the daily routine of the imperial family. The branch is located on the grounds of the palace, directly south of Imadegawa-dori Street. The minimum age for applying to visit is 18 years old, a passport is required. You can also book your visit at the Internet address: http: // sankan. kunaicho.go.jp.
The fire destroyed the first Imperial Palace of the 8th century, and the existing building is its reconstruction from the 19th century. Outside the western gate of Seisomon is the Shishinden Grand Hall, which hosts the enthronement ceremonies of the emperors. (Kyoto has retained this privilege) and New Year's receptions. To the west stands the private chapel of Emperor Seirioden, built of cypress wood. ("Room of calm and coolness")which is really calm and cool and is decorated in red, white and black.
If you can see only one of the imperial villas, opt for Katsura, a must-see attraction in the city. The masterfully designed and executed estate is one of Japan's masterpieces of exquisite residential architecture and landscape design. All walls in each of the villa's seven pavilions are sliding and can be retracted so as not to obscure views of the surrounding landscape, including the villa's own garden and the Arashiyama Hills beyond.
Villa Sugakuin is at the foot of sacred mountain Hiei. Large grounds - a magnificent example of a "walking" garden (such gardens were popular during the Edo period)... Built in the 17th century. Shogun for the Forsaken Emperor Sugakuin, these are essentially three villas, each with graceful teahouses scattered around the garden. The upper villa - the largest of the three - is crowned with a wonderful alley framed by pine trees.
City exploration
Kyoto is a surprisingly large city. Since numerous attractions are evenly distributed throughout its territory, you will need good card... The city has two metro lines, several small private rail lines and an extensive bus network. If you do not want to use expensive taxis, you can also get a bus route map, which can be obtained from the tourist information offices at Kyoto Station and from any JNTO office. However, given that there are more than 1,500 Buddhist temples, 200 Shinto shrines, many museums and majestic imperial palaces, you will still not be able to see them all.
Try to get your hands on the Kyoto Visitor's Guide, a free glossy monthly cultural repertoire with information on temples, gardens, festivals, exhibitions, restaurants and even accommodation options. so much better ”and set yourself the optimal pace.
Higashiyama
Higashiyama on the east side of the city has temples, theaters, museums and parks and is a good starting point for exploring the city on foot.
Kiyomizu Temple, one of the oldest in Kyoto, is so popular that it is as crowded on Sundays as the Kyoto subway during rush hour. But don't let that discourage you. The temple was founded in 788, just before the city entered its golden age as an imperial capital, and its many buildings are picturesquely molded to the steep slope of Mount Higashiyama, descending from it in a cascade of thatched and tiled roofs. However, most of what you see today is made in the 17th century. reconstruction of the original buildings of the 8th century The complex occupies a vast area, and its main attraction is the hondo (main hall)... Its protruding beyond the perimeter of the building and soaring high above the slope is supported by a lattice structure consisting of 139 interconnected massive beams. Next door on the slope is another terrace, from which members of the imperial court and members of the nobility enjoyed dancing and music performed on the wide hondo terrace. By the way, the popular expression "to jump from the Kiyomizu terrace" means to take a bold and risky step.
From the main hall, steps lead down to Otova-no-taki - a waterfall, where visitors drink water from a spring that is said to have many healing properties, and in the eyes of true believers - and truly divine power. A short walk takes you to a small pagoda on the opposite side of the valley, overlooking the entire temple complex.
Crowds flock to Kiyomizu to admire the lush and delicate cherry blossom blossoms in spring, a riot of maple colors in autumn, and special lighting effects in the evenings. (inquire about days and hours at any tourist office).
From the temple, you can walk to the Gion Higashiyama area, the city's main hub for traditional theater, arts, and now antiquities. It is especially famous as the last training center for the most famous residents of the city - geisha. It is good to walk here, soaking up the sights and sounds of the secluded Kyoto neighborhood, which remains committed to traditional arts and entertainment. For curiosity and patience, you will probably be rewarded with a chance encounter with a real geisha or maiko. (apprentice geisha)rushing to a meeting or class, you can hear the many layers of her gorgeous - and unimaginably heavy - silk kimono rustling as you do so.
Gion is a magnet for collectors and sellers of Japanese antiques from all over the world. Prices are usually high, but even if you are not going to part with a significant amount, it is interesting just to look at the treasures on offer, to feel the true taste of traditional Japanese design and aesthetics. Some shops are more like small museums, offering exclusive examples of genuine art.
Appeared in the XVII century. The Minamiza Theater, the oldest in Japan, in December brings to the attention of the audience the famous production of the Kaomise Kabuki Theater. Foreign audiences, on the other hand, from March to November, can experience traditional art by watching the "Gion Corner" show at Yasaka Hall, made up of tiny pearls of Japanese national culture... In a cozy little room, you will be introduced to the tea ceremony, traditional music and dance, the art of flower arranging, puppet theater and kyogen farce in 1 hour. Tickets for the Gion Corner can usually be purchased through the hotel where you are staying and at the Tourist Information Center.
In the northeastern part of Gion, Maruyama Park is one of the most popular recreational areas in Kyoto, famous for the delightful cherry blossoms in early April. The park is bordered by two important temples. Massive Chioninji - Temple of the Jodo Buddhist sect (« Pure land») , in the XII century. who preached Buddhism among the uneducated strata of the population. Towering 24 meters high, the temple gate is considered the largest structure of this type in the world. With the ringing of the Chioninji bell - the largest and most famous in Japan - the monks announce the coming of the New Year, and this ringing is broadcast throughout the country.
A huge arch spanning the main road (torii) announces the approach to the Heian Shrine. The site is notable for its distinctly tangible influence of Chinese design and a vast landscaped park, considered one of the most beautiful in Kyoto, with numerous cherry trees and a large pond with an elegant pagoda, which is connected to the shore by a covered bridge. Nearby there are two interesting museums that showcase Kyoto's rich history as a place where the country's best artisans flocked. Museum of Traditional Crafts (daily 9.00-17.00) presents a diverse collection of textiles, porcelain, fans, dolls, lacquerware, cutlery and furniture. On weekends and days national holidays those who wish can participate in the work of art studios and workshops. At the nearby National Museum of Modern Art (Tue-Sun 9.30-17.00; www.momak.go.jp)Despite the name, the main place is occupied by ceramics of the XIX-XX centuries.
Before heading to the Silver Pavilion, you might want to explore the quieter temple gardens at the foot of the eastern hills in the northern section. Short walk from Shugakuin-michi bus stop (route number 5) or the station of the same name railroad Eizan leads to Mansuin, a delightfully reposed Tendai temple dating from 1656. Maples and cherry trees frame an immaculately manicured sand and gravel garden. Walking south through a pleasant residential area, you will find yourself at the narrow bamboo entrance to Shisendo, a country-style hut with an adjoining karen sansui (dry landscaped garden) surrounded by azaleas, maples and persimmons. Nearby there is another temple that often falls out of sight of tourists - Kompukuji. And again a dry landscaped garden with a wall of azaleas. The temple is affiliated with the Rinzai sect of Zen Buddhism, but also has literary associations, as it is associated with the names of two of the greatest Japanese masters of haiku poetry - Basho and Buson.
On the northern edge of Higashiyama, there is a short trail for one of the most famous and delightful walks in the country. The philosopher's trail, named in memory of the Japanese philosopher Nishida Kitaro, is about 2 km long and winds along a narrow channel connecting two large temples, Nanzenji and Ginkakuji. Despite the large number of visitors to admire the spring blooms and the stunning shades of autumn foliage, the Philosopher's Trail attracts with its silence and solitude. Any of the welcoming little tea houses on your way, any coffee house is the perfect place to relax.
Nanzenji is a 13th century palace, on the territory of which about a dozen related temples and monasteries are currently located. The powerful gate of the main entrance was erected in 1628 and is known as the place where the robber Goemon was boiled alive in an iron cauldron. At the same time, he held his son in his raised arms, so that he would not suffer the same fate. Since then, the old-fashioned Japanese iron baths have been called gloomily "goemonburo". The view from the height of this 30-meter gate allows you to take a look at the complex territory and the sacred Mount Hiei to the north. A unique feature of the site is the presence of a large red brick aqueduct behind the main buildings, which now delivers water from Lake Biwa. Locals love to walk along the aqueduct.
A short walk west of Nanzenji is Murin-an, a classic private villa with a stunning landscaped park and wonderful views of the hills to the northeast.
Also not far from Nanzenji is the magnificent Eikan-do temple with a beautiful statue of Buddha Amida looking over his shoulder on the hillside, which is unusual. The strange pose is reminiscent of the legendary statue that revived and scolded the stunned monk Eikan for pauses in ritual chants. Every fall, special illumination comes on in the evenings, illuminating the numerous maples and highlighting the vibrant colors of the wilting foliage with strategically placed spotlights. The effect is amazing and the experience is totally unforgettable.
At the opposite end of the canal is the second significant temple on the walking route - Ginkakuji (daily mid-March - November 8.30-17.00, December - mid-March 9.00-16.30), the famous Silver Pavilion, never clad in silver as originally planned. It was built in the 15th century. the esthete and mystic shogun Yoshimasa Ashikaga, who used the pavilion for esoteric tea ceremonies, and primarily for contemplation of the moon in his elegant garden. The flat-topped mound of white gravel, despite the inevitable comparison to Fujiyama, was originally a pile of sand left over from the temple's construction.
From here, close by bus to Kyoto National Museum (Tue-Sun 9.30-17.00, Fri 9.30-18.00)holding the largest collection of Japanese sculpture and painting in the country, as well as weapons, traditional armor and costumes from the past ten centuries, including several dazzling theater costumes but with masks. Much of the unparalleled collection has been amassed in the temples and palaces of Kyoto, Nara and other significant cultural centers.
Immediately south of Kyoto National Museum stands the spectacular Sanjusangendo ("Hall of 33 spans")... The original temple, built in 1164, lasted only 100 years, and the current reconstruction dates back to the 13th century. The nail of the exposition is a gilded wooden statue of a seated bodhisattva Kannon, 3.3 m high, with 11 faces in a crown on his head and 40 arms (although the statue is called "a thousand-handed")in which Kannon holds bells, wheels and lotus flowers. And yet the main treasure of Sanjusangendo is a legion of 1000 gilded images of the same Kannon, surrounding a gilded statue of Buddha. Identical statues were carved by craftsmen of the 13th century. Kokey, Unkei and Tankey, assisted by 70 artisans.
Yukio and Kita
Nestled in the northwestern part of Kyoto Ryoanji (March - November 8.00-17.00, December - February 8.30-16.30; www.ryoanji.jp) is the most famous of all Zen Buddhist temples. His famous rock garden has generated more debate - both positively and negatively - than the gravel on his 10 x 30 m rectangular area.There are no trees or bushes - only 15 stones decorated with old moss, arranged in groups among ideal rake-treated white gravel. Although the creation of the garden is usually attributed to the great master Soami, no one knows for sure who (and for what) created it. The mystery surrounding the emergence of the garden does not diminish the power of its simplicity. By mixing different interpretations, we can say that it expresses the essence of the predominantly anti-intellectual commandments of Zen Buddhism. Dark islands in the white sea, mountain peaks rising above the clouds - everyone sees what he wants to see. Come here early in the morning, before the influx of visitors. Few experiences associated with a visit to Kyoto remain in memory as long as contemplating the mysterious Ryoanji rock garden.
Behind the garden, you can stroll among the maple and pine trees of the forest that surrounds the charming Köyöchi Pond at the foot of Mount Kinugasa. Luxurious thick moss grows abundantly everywhere. Few foreign visitors know this, but just a 15-minute walk south is the magnificent Myoshinji, a walled complex of temples, Japanese gardens and teahouses where you can spend the day unnoticed.
The famous Kinkakuji Temple of the Golden Pavilion is a 20-minute walk or short bus ride from Ryoanji. (daily 9.00-17.00)... The original pavilion of the late 14th century, completely covered in gold leaf, was a typical expression of the irrepressible pursuit of luxury characteristic of the Muromachi period and encouraged by the shogun Yoshimitsu Ashikaga, who built the pavilion at the time of his retirement at the quite respectable age of 38. That pavilion was burned down in 1950 by a fanatical young monk. Today's 1955 building is an exact replica of the original, last refurbished in 2002. Most of the buildings are inaccessible, but as you walk up the winding stone stairs to the exit, you will not pass by the thatched tea house.
Another famous fire victim is Daitokuji. This vast complex of 22 small temples and related monasteries (currently fewer than the 60 that existed during the Edo period) burned down and rebuilt from the XIV to the XVII centuries. The complex is lavishly endowed with artistic treasures and some of Japan's finest Zen gardens, reflecting its history as an important center for calligraphy, gardening, tea ceremony and other sophisticated art forms. Zen temples have particularly noteworthy gardens, teahouses and relics. Daisen-in, "The Zen Temple Unmatched," is equipped with magnificently painted fusuma (sliding panels) and decorated with wall paintings. The curious garden of Zuiho-in Monastery combines Zen Buddhist and Christian symbolism, as well as an attractive rock garden and a tea garden with an unusual geometric shape. Ryugen-in has five different rock gardens, one of which is arguably the smallest in Japan.
To the south of the complex is the traditional Nishijin weaver district. It has produced high quality fabrics for centuries, including exquisite silk brocade. Best Place to Explore a Subject - Nishijina Textile Center (daily 9.00-17.00).
To the west is the large and significant shrine of Kitano Tenmangu (daily 9.00-17.00; www. kitanotenmangu.or.jp)... Tenmangu temples are usually decorated with statues of seated cows and bulls, which are believed to have healing properties. You will see how people rub certain parts of the statues in the hope of getting rid of their pain or illness. The sanctuary is also famous for its thousands of plum trees, whose rich pink color attracts crowds in the weeks leading up to the general cherry blossom fever. However, it is really crowded here on the 25th of every month, when the famous flea market operates in Kitano Tenmangu. People come from far and wide to wander among used kimonos, antique furniture and ceramics, ancient scrolls, as well as handicrafts, food and household goods, which range in price from affordable to mind-blowing.
Central Kyoto
Southwest of Kyoto Train Station is Toji - oldest temple cities with the largest pagoda in the country. The temple was founded after the imperial capital moved to Kyoto in 794. It was built from a forest located to the south of the sacred mountain Inari. Thirty years later, Shingon Kukai, the deeply revered founder of esoteric Buddhism, was appointed Chief Superior. (after death it became known as Kobo Daisy)... The temple complex quickly became the main center of the Shingon in Kyoto, which it remains to this day. In addition to the imposing pagoda, a huge flea market is popular nationwide, gathering crowds of bargain hunters on the 21st of every month.
Directly north of the pagoda are the centers of the two Jodo-shinsu currents. ("Pure Land"): Temples of Nishi-Honganji and Higashi-Honganji. The latter was built by the shogun Ieyasu Tokugawa to counter the powerful influence of Nishi-Honganji, who gained thousands of fans through the preaching of liberal Buddhism: priests could marry and have children, eat meat and abandon traditional ascetic practices.
Most of Higashi-Honganji is inaccessible to the public, but the main hall and the founder's hall, rebuilt in 1895 after repeated fires, are notable for rather unpleasant ropes woven from women's hair, which were donated by parishioners to transport the temple pillars to their place of installation. Entrance to Shosei-en Temple Garden (daily 9.00-16.00)located a short walk to the east is free. The shady garden with many ponds is a pleasant retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city center. Much more awaits you at the nearby Nishi-Honganji Temple, a truly outstanding example of monumental Japanese Buddhist architecture, combining imposing silhouette with rich décor. With its splendor, the buildings of the 17th century. owe in no small measure to the structures brought here from the luxurious Fushimi Castle, located in the southern part of Kyoto and owned by Hideyoshi (dismantled by order of the Tokugawa in 1632).
Nijo Castle is a touching monument to an ironic twist in history. Built in 1603 by Ieyasu Toku-gawa for his rare and reluctant visits to Kyoto (at the behest of the emperor) after restoration in 1868, the castle was expropriated by Emperor Meiji. It was here that the emperor signed an edict abolishing the shogunate and ordered his carpenters to bypass the castle and replace the Tokugawa stockroses with imperial chrysanthemums.
Directly east of the castle is the new Kyoto International Manga Museum (Tue-Thu 10.00-20.00; www.kyotomm.com), proving by its existence that Kyoto lives not only in the past. The museum positions itself as the only museum in the world dedicated exclusively to Japanese comics. Visitors are allowed to take the comics out onto the lawn and read there.
Look for the Nishiki Market to change the rhythm and mood. A surprisingly calm street market is occupied by a single-aisle passage. It is hard to take your eyes off the colorful counters with dried and fresh fish, pickled vegetables, young bamboo shoots, chicken wings and breasts, skillfully laid out in an ornament, an abundance of squid, mussels, oysters and scallops.
Shiji-dori is located nearby to the north - another significant market area worth seeing and known as Teramachi (literally "temple district")During the reorganization of the urban space in 1591, after its almost complete devastation as a result of inter-clan wars, Hideyoshi moved many of the temples of Kyoto to this long narrow street. Although small temples and shrines exist today, tourists are primarily attracted by the covered arcade between Shijo and Sanjo streets, famous for its second-hand bookstores, shops selling traditional hand-made washi paper, fashionable and sometimes extravagant clothing and numerous shops of pickled products. ...
North of Oike, Teramachi is home to some of Kyoto's most respectable antique and washi paper stores, some of which have been around for hundreds of years. The adjoining streets are home to trade centers for traditional Japanese tables, screens, lamps, scrolls and other exquisite furnishings and interior design.
Southern Kyoto
The importance of rice in Japanese culture cannot be overstated. Each year, during a ceremony significant for the country, the emperor plants rice on a symbolic field, thereby emphasizing its role as a link between the Japanese people and the Shinto gods. Rice is so important that the Shinto pantheon even has its own deity named Inari. Thousands of Inari shrines are scattered throughout Japan, recognizable by the two foxes standing guard.
In the southern part of Kyoto is the most famous Fushimi Inari shrine. In a city filled with attractions, this is one of those places that can finally drain your stock of enthusiastic epithets. The main buildings with the ubiquitous rice and fox motifs are some of the most extensive in Kyoto. After heading upstairs, follow the path to the right of the structure to reach the first notable feature of the sanctuary - long curving tunnels made up of bright orange torii arches. Delivered (for a lot of money) funded by companies and individuals who hope in this way to secure the blessings of the gods, the torii decrease as you move through the tunnel and begin to climb the mountain. Then you come out to an intriguing double tunnel that forces you to choose between the right and left road. As you climb to the top of Mount Inari, you will pass many small temples and countless bright red thoriums, both miniature and massive. Charge your camera in advance - you will need it.
To the north of Fushimi is the large Zen Buddhist temple complex of Tofukuji. In addition to many imposing buildings, there is a hojo (abbot's dwelling) There are four notable and distinctive Zen gardens. The central part of the territory is occupied by a hollow with a small maple grove. Every autumn hundreds of thousands of people come here to admire the vibrant colors from the Tsutenkyo Covered Bridge ("Bridge of the Heavenly Way").
Trips from Kyoto
When your head and body are ready to take a break from the stress of cultural sightseeing, head south to resort area Arashiyama, stretching along the Hozu River (also known as Oops)... River framed by maples and famous old wooden bridge Togetsukyo is very popular with Japanese tourists, and therefore you should refrain from traveling here on Sundays and national holidays.
There are several significant temples and shrines in Arashiyama. The Shrine of Nonomiya is unique for its special role in preparing the princesses of the imperial family for service as priestesses in the Grand Shrine of Ise, the country's main Shinto shrine. The sanctuary occupies an important place in "The Tale of Genji", as well as in the famous theater play with the eloquent name "Nonomiya", and therefore it is of particular interest to people who are not indifferent to classical Japanese literature.
North of Kyoto, in the rural enclave of Ohara, lies the majestic Sanzen-in temple complex. From the bus station, follow the signs for english language, to a path that winds along the stream, past numerous stalls and shops selling Ohara's famous pickled products, and eventually you will find yourself in front of the massive gate of the temple.
The superbly designed Suhekein Garden with its pond is an iconic place of meditation and contemplation. After exploring the garden, walk into the hall at the end of the corridor and try your hand at calligraphy alongside Japanese visitors brushing traditional prayer invocations to the central Buddha Amida. The view from the veranda at the rear of the building overlooking the lush green and moss landscaped garden is one of the most famous in Kyoto. The Ojo Gokurakin Hall in the central part of the temple houses an imposing seated statue of Buddha Amida, dating from 986 BC. (and so revered that it is forbidden to photograph her)... The seals that you can use in the various numbered areas of the complex are particularly elegant, and their prints will be a wonderful and unusual souvenir to remind you of your visit.
The Miho Museum is located about 30 km from Kyoto in the depths of a wooded nature reserve. (mid-March - mid-June, mid-July - mid-August, September - mid-December Tue-Sun 10.00-17.00; www.miho.or.jp), designed by the world famous architect I. M. Pei. The tunnel provides access to an outstanding private collection of Egyptian, South Asian, Chinese, Persian and, of course, Japanese art. The exterior of the building, its interiors and the exhibits themselves are a triumph of design and harmony between old and new, East and West, simplicity and complexity. The Miho Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in Asian art and design.
Uji is located on the Nara train line, a 30-40 minute drive from Kyoto. The green hills provide the backdrop for the mighty Uji River and the hugely significant Byodo-in, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Phoenix Temple Hall with a gilded statue of Buddha Amida, seated on a bed of lotus flowers, was built in the 11th century. and, despite all the vicissitudes, has survived to this day in its original form. The first thing you'll notice in Uji is the smell of tea being dried. Fragrant uji-cha has been cultivated since the 13th century. Local green tea is considered the best in Japan.
University city
With about 40 universities, Kyoto is still considered the country's educational center. However, due to a lack of space for campuses, the student population has recently declined. The sky-high construction costs in the city have forced a number of faculties to move to rural areas adjacent to Kyoto.
Holidays in Kyoto
The Japanese, especially the people of Kyoto, count the time with holidays and ceremonies. Here are some of them. April. Local geisha in lush costumes perform traditional dances at the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theater in Gion. Kyoto hosts numerous fun flower-viewing festivals [hanami), the most famous of which is Dai-goji.
June. A summer festival in the form of a dynamic water extravaganza at the Kifune-jinja shrine dedicated to the god of water. Theater performances but by torchlight. July. The largest festival in Kyoto, Gion Matsuri, originated in the 10th century. On July 17, beautifully decorated platforms float through the city.
October. A month of holidays. The festival of the bull in Koriuji is one of the "mysterious holidays" in Kyoto. Jidai Matsuri (Feast of the eras) crowns "mysterious holidays" and is the culmination of the October round of costume festivals. The procession through the streets of the city is led by 2,000 people representing famous characters in Japanese history.
December. Kaomise (face show) - Gala performance of kabuki theater in Minami-za, during which the actors show their real faces. Senbon Saka-do - a holiday of Buddhist enlightenment with a ceremony of boiling radishes!
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No visit to Japan is complete without Kyoto. The city was the capital of the Japanese Empire for many years, the history and culture of this people have been preserved here. Yes, Kyoto is much more touristy than many of the country's modern metropolises, but it's touristy in a good way.
Kyoto is friendlier, quieter, and undeniably more beautiful than many other cities in Japan. But this is not fake, but natural beauty.
"Kyoto" means simply "Capital". The court of the Japanese emperor moved here at the end of the 8th century (in those days the name was different). Then the new city was built in the image of the capital of China. Let me remind you that at that time in history, it was not Beijing, but.
Kyoto held out as the official capital of Japan for over a thousand years, losing this status only in 1868, when the emperor was reinstated as the country's supreme ruler and his court moved to Tokyo. (From there, for hundreds of years, the shoguns of the Tokugawa dynasty actually ruled the country.) Therefore, one of the nicknames of Kyoto is "the thousand-year capital".
I will try to write a lot about Kyoto, but now I will briefly describe it in general terms.
In Kyoto, unlike most Japanese cities, streets have names. Since the layout was borrowed from the Chinese, streets in the city intersect at right angles, everything is smooth and neat.
I prefer to live in Kyoto near the Sanjo Ohashi Bridge ("Third Street Bridge"). It is marked on the map. It's about half an hour walk from the train station (on the map below, in pink). Historically, this bridge was considered the end point. From here, most of Kyoto's attractions are accessible on foot or by public transport.
Unfortunately, hotels here are not cheap, especially during the peak sakura and cherry blossom seasons.
Kyoto lies in a valley with mountains to the west and east of the city. The Kamo River flows along the valley from north to south; geographically, it is slightly west of the city center. Most of Kyoto's cultural attractions are located near the river.
Kamo is shallow but incredibly beautiful. Walking along its banks is a pleasure.
On the opposite side, in the northwest, is the Arashiyama area. It is famous for its bamboo alley.
In all photographs, she is portrayed as empty and mysterious. In fact, crowds of people walk here. It's hard for me to imagine how someone manages to film this place empty. Probably they just take a lot of pictures from a tripod, then remove people. Or you can remove the fuel over the heads.
There is also a monkey sanctuary in Arashiyama - though you have to climb the mountain. But they can be hand-fed there (if such pleasure inspires you)!
Well, in general, Arashiyama is simply beautiful. (Especially in the fall.)
The eastern part of the city, across the river from the station, contains perhaps the largest number of temples and other historical monuments... There is also comparatively new memorial Ryozen-Kannon, in memory of the fallen soldiers of the Second World War.
The memorial consists of a huge image of the seated Goddess of Mercy. The figure is made of concrete and steel. Each visitor is given a stick of incense to honor the memory of the soldiers.
The Gion district is located next to the memorial. It is famous as a geisha district. There were (and still come across) teahouses where geisha entertain their clients.
I think everyone already knows that geisha have nothing to do with prostitution. In traditional Japan, women were given a secondary role in society. It was believed that they could not talk on equal terms with men about science, art and politics. Geisha were specially educated girls who could support such a conversation, as well as entertain clients with music, poetry and dancing. Their company was highly paid, but as a rule, marriage was impossible for them (what husband would have tolerated that his wife entertained, albeit not with prostitution, other men?)
Today, on the streets of Gion, you can meet girls in makeup and geisha kimonos. Most likely these are tourists painted for photographing.
This service is provided for money to anyone interested, and real geisha do not show off in public. Going to a party with a geisha is considered a very prestigious and exclusive pleasure. A regular client can invite a guest with him as a sign of the highest honor and respect. Only after several such visits, the guest will be entitled to try to become an independent client in this geisha's tea house.
In general, in Kyoto, you can meet a lot of girls in traditional kimonos. Japanese women love to walk around the ancient capital in such an outfit. There are fewer men dressed in traditional clothes, but sometimes there are such men (usually accompanied by girls). But mostly the girls walk in groups of three or four.
For tourists, there are special rentals of a kimono, you can take it to wear it for several hours, it costs around $ 25. Many Asian girls in traditional dressing gowns speak suspiciously clear English among themselves.
Apart from the Kamo River, the city is cut by small canals and streams. All of them have high stone banks in the Japanese style. Closer to the historic center there are bridges without railings, for some reason they give such rivers even more charm.
And there are also storks ... Or are they herons?
Blooming sakura hangs over such rivers in spring, and beautiful leaves in autumn. I think it's very green here in the summer. So Kyoto is certainly beautiful any time of the year.
If you feel like a change of scenery, from Kyoto
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