Core Kyoto

Kyoto artisans feel a sense of crisis about the future of their distinctive crafts. To keep traditional skills alive, they are adding chic accessories to their product lines to create new demand.

Kyoto has a rich fermentation tradition, from soy sauce to sake. Recently, natto has been gaining global attention as a superfood, with new efforts underway to boost its appeal and appreciation.

New footwear styles are gaining traction in Kyoto, home of the kimono. Age-old techniques are used to create geta sandals for healthy feet and leather shoes that suit Japanese and Western attire.

Lanterns still bring charm to traditional settings at night. Kyoto artisans uphold their skills despite decreasing demand, producing lanterns for use across Japan, while embracing new initiatives.

Iron kettles rust and corrode over time. For centuries metal casters specializing in kettles have cast diverse kettles for tea gatherings, creating a universe of infinite beauty within that corrosion.

Traditional Kyoto-style bags are made from Nishijin brocade, Yuzen-dyed fabric, and other locally made premium textiles. Artisans also continue to create practical and durable bags from sailcloth.

Women born or married into heritage businesses keep generations of wisdom alive in novel ways. Kyoto's time-honored image and brand would not be what it is without their exemplary conduct and kindness.

Matsunoo Taisha is the guardian Shinto shrine to Kyoto's west. In April and May, the deities are carried through the community in prayer for local prosperity, upholding a 1000-year-old tradition.

The dark-grey, clay roofing on shrines, temples, and Machiya townhouses is buffed and smoked to boost durability, water resistance, and luster. Craftsmen and roofers uphold the traditional techniques.

The city's around 150 shopping areas manifest the diversity of the local culture. Some are reinventing themselves to, once again, become the focus of the community as well as handle overtourism.

Raden, a decorative lacquerware technique, uses the glimmering inner layer of shells. The inlay appears to float resplendently on the black lacquer, inspiring artisans to take the art into the future.

Shamisen tones, filled with emotion, harmonize with the culture of traditional entertainment districts. The dwindling number of musicians has aroused the effort to keep the instrument and music alive.

Several annual rituals performed at Shinto shrines involve bows and arrows that are believed to hold divine power and dispel evil. These weapons also hone the spirit through the practice of archery.

This iconic Kyoto destination, popular for a millennium, has the perfect climate and topography for fall foliage. Some people create new ways to enjoy autumn, while others uphold fall traditions.

Kyoto has about 13,000 alleys with a total distance of 940km, and an increasing number of their houses are unoccupied. People are working on projects and tours to preserve and revitalize these areas.

Japan's first central wholesale market, goes beyond mere distribution. With strong ties to local chefs and producers, it plays a major role in training professional connoisseurs.

In 1869, the emperor's move to Tokyo led Kyoto's economy and population into decline. A canal was dug as a last resort to revive the city. It still supplies water, generates power and boosts tourism.

In Kemari, players kick a ball into the air and strive to keep it off the ground. They master the mentality, skill, and conduct of the game, now played as a wish for peace throughout the nation.

For centuries, Kyoto has been the hub of kimono fashion, spawning the weaving and dyeing industries. Today, designers take inspiration from traditional styles and techniques to create everyday attire.

Horses take center stage in the ancient capital's events, such as two May festivals—Aoi Matsuri boasting ornate historical attire and the 1,200-year-old Fujinomori-sai.

Omura Shige (1918-1999) wrote about daily life and the treasured customs of Kyoto, and introduced the Kyoto style of home cooking, called Obanzai, to people throughout Japan in her writings.

Kyoto dominated the oil market 1,000 years ago. Various oils fueled votive lamps, flavored food, preserved wood, and were used in pomade and cosmetics. Oil still plays a key role in the culture today.

This 11th-century novel is set in the imperial court. As a work of literature and paintings, it captured people's hearts, profoundly influencing the culture of the ancient capital for a millennium.

Kyoto potters refine their skills in a division of labor. Two painters wield their brushes to create delicate designs in majestic strokes and colors, gaining much attention in the industry and beyond.

Traditional carpentry employs wooden joinery in furnishings to fit pieces of wood together without use of metal nails. Artisans breathe new life into the wood, imbuing a Kyoto aesthetic as they work.

Paintings and calligraphy are often mounted on sliding doors and scrolls. Artisans consider the story behind each piece and the client's wishes to best showcase the artwork.

Kyoto is not all traditional cuisine. It has become one of Japan's leading ramen hubs thanks to being a student town. Tastes evolve and flavors change as restaurants strive to satisfy clientele.

Cooking utensils influence Kyoto cuisine, helping to bring out the inherent flavor of local ingredients. Artisans and chefs believe that upholding the handicrafts sustains the taste of Kyoto.

Forty-one ritual folk dances from around Japan were added to the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity List in 2022. The Kuta Hanagasa Dance is performed in a rural community in the very north of Kyoto city. Every summer, the men make flower lanterns by hand to be used in the ritual as they sing and dance to a drum accompaniment before the local deities in gratitude for a plentiful harvest. Discover the Kuta villagers' lifestyle and follow their preparations for the ritual.

Kyoto has a culture of ordering personalized goods, yet it is more than just placing an order. As Japan's ancient capital, the city attracted diversified artisans. Many artisan-customer relationships span generations, fostering strong bonds of trust. This engenders products of high quality through constructive communication, ensuring satisfying results for both creator and receiver. Follow Nagamatsu Hitomi, who cherishes the spirit of bespoke goods, as she visits her trusted purveyors.

Deities from Japan, China, and India evolved into the Seven Lucky Gods, who are popularly depicted aboard a treasure ship. A pilgrimage of seven temples and shrines, each dedicated to one of the deities, is said to have originated in Kyoto for believers to receive blessings from them all. Recently, the pilgrimage has sparked a boom in shrine and temple visits, with worshippers collecting Goshuin seals as proof of their journey. Discover the energizing belief in these deities in Kyoto, today.

Boxes are crafted from wood, paper and other materials. But in Kyoto, boxes are not mere containers. They serve to protect the dignity and enhance the value of the contents. Fittingly, when selecting one, people look for exquisiteness and beauty. The boxes exude a presence to equal their contents. In the world of food and traditional confectionery, the contained space of a box serves as a canvas for beauty. Discover the functionality and aesthetic sense craftspeople imbue in the boxes they make.

Flowers in bloom manifest the changing beauty of nature over time. Kyotoites treasure them as symbols of not only nature but life. Flower-inspired artworks are created in various fields in Kyoto. A Japanese-style painter uses folding fans as canvases. A metal artisan conveys the transience of flowers. A photographer confronts life by capturing withering flowers. A priest and his wife float seasonal flowers in water to comfort worshippers. Discover how Kyotoites express their love of flowers.

Carbon- and glass-fiber textiles promise potential for a sustainable society. Textile artworks boast fine, painting-like and photo-like expression. Artisans who weave with their fingernails establish opportunities to teach the craft. One creator works to convey the traditional weavers' passion through accessories she makes from weaving byproducts. Discover how Nishijin weavers employ their respective skills in the pursuit of new potential to suit the times and fight the shrinking kimono market.

Upcycling means reusing discarded or unused items to create products with higher value than the originals. Unwearable and unsellable kimono are resewn into dresses. Misshapen, substandard, Kyoto-grown vegetables, which are difficult to market, are made into paints. A Buddhist temple in danger of closure incorporated a hotel to survive. Many are turning to upcycling as they strive to solve issues plaguing Kyoto. Discover how the power of tradition is propelling upcycling in the ancient capital.

Heian courtiers 1,200 years ago wore robes made of fabric dyed with medicinal herbs to produce colors of prayer for peace and to keep evil at bay. But most of these colors have been lost to time. Fascinated with these forgotten pigments, some Kyotoites are endeavoring to revive them and create new dyeing techniques. Discover how people have taken up the challenge by learning from the classics and the ancients, cultivating wild plants to be used for pigments, and making handcrafted garments.

Kyoto has been a stronghold of Buddhism for a millennium, with over 1,600 temples located in its city limits. But temples face a drop in parishioners as the population declines and youth show disinterest. One priest tackles social problems, such as suicide, while artisans create appealing statues and ritual objects. An android makes Buddhist teachings more accessible, and an IT system enables discourse with priests. Discover the novel ways Buddhism is being promulgated in step with the times.

Minamiyamashiro, in the very south of Kyoto Pref., was once an important transportation hub, and many Buddhist temples were built to spiritually watch over this secluded region. Around the 15th century, the area escaped the civil unrest that razed Kyoto, and its valuable temples and treasures, some of which are more than a millennium old, survived unscathed. Discover the 11 remaining temples through the activities of a close-knit association that preserves Buddhist culture beyond denominations.

Fermenting soybeans, Koji mold and salt produces miso. The taste of this rich, aromatic seasoning varies depending on regional climates. In Kyoto, rice miso is the standard, while white miso, which evolved within dynastic culture 1,000 years ago, is still used in day-to-day cooking, New Year's dishes, and by local restaurants. Some breweries produce miso the old-fashioned, natural way. A local Italian restaurant even uses miso to season dishes. Discover the miso food culture cultivated in Kyoto.

In the 10th century samurai guarding the emperor and aristocrats began to wear colorful armor, reflecting the capital's elegance. High-ranking samurai practiced mounted warfare, shooting arrows from horseback. When infantry warfare became the norm, armor lost its practicality and became a symbol of a samurai's power. The elaborate armor they commissioned involved dying, weaving, lacquer, and metal artisans. Discover the beauty within samurai armor that is now upheld as the ultimate in craftwork.

Life in Kyoto has long been underscored by a culture of frugality and cherishing belongings; the city has many stores dealing in curios and antiques. One shop handles old calligraphic works and paintings. Another offers handicrafts difficult to make with modern technology. An increasing number of stores offer practical antiques, and more people are feeling comfortable about using them in daily life. Discover how Kyotoites have always appreciated the imperfections in objects resulting from aging.

Fushimi Inari Taisha holds a festival in November, burning rice straw in gratitude of a plentiful harvest. The straw symbolizes a meaningful connection as the deity of rice is believed to dwell within rice grains, and it is used in prayers for offspring and in New Year's decorations. Rice straw is also used in everyday items, and an artisan weaves it into modern ornaments, redefining straw craftwork. Discover the multifaceted beauty of prayer infused into rice straw throughout the centuries.

A washi designer combines huge sheets of washi with lighting to enliven open architectural spaces. Stoles made from dyed, washi-woven textile are the amalgamation of traditional Kyoto chic. An apparel company sells washi clothing and later collects them to make vegetable fertilizer. Daily items made from papier mache-style lacquer using washi enjoy renewed interest for their ability to be repaired for reuse. Discover how Kyoto's traditional skills and culture stretch the potential of washi.

Kimono are worn as formalwear and in cultural pursuits, but few men don them and the market has shrunk. Various initiatives aim to reverse this trend. One man sells outfits to dispel the image of kimono being expensive and bothersome. Another aims to revive the bold, showy style favored over 400 years ago. A connoisseur repurposes old kimono, adding the subtle flair of later fashion. An artist dyes kimono to suit the wearer's tastes. Discover how they strive to revive the appeal of men's kimono.

Ornamental metalwork evolved mainly in the ancient capital through the patronage of the imperial court and places of worship. Metalworkers beat, stretch, carve, shave, and cast metal to create nail-head covers and door handles, ritual implements for Shinto palanquins and festival floats, kimono accessories, incense burners, kettles, and other items. Discover how a 230-year-old workshop, run by the 7th-generation proprietor, continues to polish its expertise and nurture successors to the trade.

Textile producer Shimura Shoji dyes threads for his kimono and other items with natural pigments, used since ancient times. Together with his mother and grandmother, both dyers, he founded a school to propagate the use of plant-based dyes. Florist Urasawa Mina encourages the enjoyment of flowers in everyday life. Her original floral arrangements attract attention for her Paris-style, dense composition using neutral colors. The 2 discuss how they view and use color in their respective fields.

The tradition of copying evolved in Kyoto over centuries through woodblock prints and reproductions of artworks. A 17th-century monk etched 60,000 woodblocks with sutras to promulgate Buddhist teaching. The collotype printing technique faithfully reproduces Kyoto's famed works of art. One initiative uses the latest scanning technology to preserve historical buildings and Buddhist statues as 3D digital data. Discover the techniques and aesthetics in copying through the people involved in the art.

The town of Wazuka in southern Kyoto Prefecture has recently been in the spotlight as a producer of quality tea leaves. It produces around 40 percent of renowned Uji tea and 20 percent of choice Tencha leaves used in matcha nationally. The vista of the mountain tea plantations attracts many tourists. Discover how farmers running a popular guesthouse, housemakers tackling the challenges of a sustainable lifestyle, and other villagers strive to ensure their fragrant tea culture remains relevant.

Tatami, cushions and futon--collectively referred to as Shikimono--evolved in the imperial palace, shrines and temples to suit the Japanese custom of sitting and sleeping on the floor. But, the popularity of chairs means less need for tatami rooms, and artisans are adapting traditional Shikimono for modern life. And, the concept of recycling Shikimono, long ingrained in Kyoto, is regaining attention with emphasis on sustainability. Discover how Shikimono continues to evolve with the times.

Candles were long prized in the city's many shrines and temples, and throughout the ancient capital. People did not see them as mere implements to illuminate the dark but also symbols of devotion and prayer. Antiquated candles and lamps are not as commonly used in contemporary times, but are still seen in places of worship. Some people relish and use the lighting at tea gatherings and places of work. Discover how Kyotoites use old-style lighting to bring calm and relaxation into modern life.

Kyoto artists are focusing on new styles of art, based in the traditions of the old capital. One captures paint splashes with a high-speed camera to create "ikebana" in motion. Another uses the natural slippage that emerges when dyeing and weaving handicrafts to create works with a human touch. Advocates of the arts are organizing large art festivals and providing dwellings for young artists to help them hone their styles. Discover how artists are reimagining Kyoto as a "future city of art."

Dried foods evolved as an efficient way of transporting produce to the ancient capital. The practice increased not only their shelf life but also their tastiness and nutritional value. The foodstuffs were used to cook creative dishes, giving birth to a distinct culinary culture in Kyoto. But as modern lifestyles became more hectic, they lost favor due to the time required for rehydration. Discover how dried foods are again gaining attention as a way of using misshapen produce to cut food loss.

Kyoto has many shrines, temples and traditional structures, spurring people to place special value on old building materials over the centuries. After the Middle Ages, merchants at the center of commerce and industry were thrifty in using old lumber in their townhouse-style residences. Even in modern times, old fittings and timber are reused and repurposed. Discover the spirit of perpetuity through the passion of artisans and craftsmen as they use old wood to give birth to a new aesthetic.

American photographer Everett Kennedy Brown, a resident of Kyoto, traveled more than 50 countries during his career as a photojournalist before settling in Japan over 30 years ago. He expresses Kyoto as he sees it using wet plate collodion photography. Up-and-coming artist Yamada Shinya merges the worlds of Nihonga painting and anime characters in his works to international acclaim. They discuss the source of Kyoto culture through their respective arts.

The tone and timbre of Buddhist bells depends on their shape, thickness and metal composition. When the ancient capital was established in the late 8th century, temple bells were positioned in auspicious directions in relation to the imperial palace so their peal could protect the city. Some people are working to create a new "sound of Kyoto" based on these bells. The small bells used in Buddhist rites have transcended boundaries and are being used in everyday life for their calming properties.

Gates allow passage through walls, fences and hedges, which separate individual premises from the outside. Temple, castle and residential gates take various forms depending on their design, location and purpose. In some cases, they act as borders between the sacred and the secular to repel malevolent forces. Discover the diversity of gates in the ancient capital, from the elaborate and decorative to the simple.

Nagakusa Sumie, born and raised in the textile area of Nishijin, was taught how to embroider kimono with elegant designs by her parents-in-law. Eri Tomoko learnt to embellish Buddhist statues with fine strips of gold foil from her late mother, Sayoko, a living national treasure during her lifetime. They discuss the role of women in handicrafts and how the exquisite skills used in Kyoto-style embroidery and Kirikane foil trim are in danger of being lost with the decrease in specialists.

Kameoka, west of Kyoto, has supplied lumber and foodstuffs to Kyoto for over 1,000 years. Today it aspires to be an Environmentally Advanced City through the efforts of the sightseeing boatmen tackling garbage issues. Recently young people have been relocating there, attracted by a lifestyle closer to nature. A greengrocer forges ties between city and rural areas. A potter revived the Yakishime ceramic style. Discover what the future holds for Kameoka where traditional and modern customs merge.

Aristocracy, samurai and high-ranking citizens of the ancient capital prized writing implements of sophisticated design, made with expert skill. Stationery was seen as conveyance of their intellect and sense. This deep-rooted calligraphic culture survives in Kyoto in fountain pen ink inspired by Kyoto's dyeing specialists, colorful pastels in traditional hues, and jewel-like glass pens. Discover how the world of ink and other stationery continues to enrich people's lives in the ancient capital.

After the capital moved to Tokyo in the late 1800s, Kyoto citizens enthusiastically modernized the city. Many of the buildings from that era, which were inspired by Western architectural techniques, still stand today. Professor Nakajima Setsuko of Kyoto University researches modern architecture. Malian Oussouby Sacko, president of Kyoto Seika University, specializes in architecture in Japan. They discuss how the transformation and rebirth of modern architecture hold hints for the future.

Gold and silver threads, made by lacquering gold and silver leaf onto washi, are indispensable in Nishijin brocade. The opulent appearance led to generous use in court and religious attire, and in festival floats and palanquins. In the 1960s, mass production of lamé enabled the industry to diversify into women's fashion. But now it is in crisis with a lack of craftsmen, and market shrinkage due to the pandemic. Discover how artisans struggle to conceive fresh ideas and create new opportunities.

Since ancient times taiko have been instruments of communication with the deities. They provided inspiration as lively accompaniment to performing arts and continue to play a vital role in strengthening community ties. Wachidaiko are rooted in a legend of dispelling demons. In August drums welcome ancestral spirits on their annual visit. One family upholds 200-year-old drum-making techniques. A school instills seniors with purpose and energy. Discover the taiko culture of the ancient capital.

Sake brewing prospered for centuries on Kyoto's abundant water supply and quality rice. But demand has dropped recently with the increase of a variety of alcoholic beverages. Brewers search for new drinks that suit modern needs while preserving traditions. One brewery makes beer with water originally slated for sake. A biotechnology institute collaborates with sake breweries to produce sake for overseas consumption. Discover how breweries are promoting new ways to enjoy sake during the pandemic.

Wire netting techniques originated over 1,000 years ago in netting to repel birds and religious altar fittings and treasures, such as sutra receptacles. The intricate geometrical patterns can only be created by hand. Today the craft is mostly used in cooking utensils. Kyoto once had 30 workshops, but a handful remain in operation. Discover the world of wire netting through the efforts of a father-son team looking to keep the traditional craft alive through revolutionary advances in technology.

Verdant, furry moss, of which there are some 1800 varieties, has the power to fascinate. Moss makes a literary appearance in an early-10th-century poem. Later a culture revolving around moss appreciation evolved through the influence of Zen and the Way of Tea's aesthetic concept of "refined and rustic." During the pandemic, moss is enjoying a comeback, and people are finding solace in moss terrariums and other interior items. Discover the complex yet delicate beauty of this lush greenery.

The eastern mountains once hosted many climbing kilns, attracting scores of potters. Kyo-yaki pottery evolved in its diversity for use in cooking and tea ceremonies. Modern potters uphold the old ideals while creating fresh works. One potter uses scissors to adorn her work with floral designs. One produces ceramics for use in construction. Another creates nouveau pieces based on research into a classical style. Discover how potters propel their craft into the future, unbound by tradition.

Karakami is washi woodblock-printed with nature motifs and geometric patterns. Arriving from China around 1,000 years ago, this ornamental paper came to be used in interiors as wallpaper and on sliding doors. One artisan sublimely imbues his artworks with prayer. Another strives to perfect the world of minimal, beautiful handiwork. Discover how artisans are propelling Karakami into the future through accessories, fixtures and hotel interiors, transcending the world of Japanese aesthetics.

In Kyoto, traditional cooking stoves affectionately called Okudo-san were once the heart of the household and the focus of belief in the deity of fire. With the proliferation of electric rice cookers, the stoves began to disappear from use. Recently more people are forgoing convenience and learning the benefits of cooking on an open flame. Some still use their ancestors' stoves in their businesses. Discover how people are reevaluating their lifestyles during the pandemic through their Okudo-san.

Shigemori Chisao, grandson of landscape gardener Mirei, creates modern gardens in Japan and abroad, taking inspiration from dry-landscape Karesansui. This type of garden evolved in Zen temples in the 1400s and uses rocks to represent land and water. In his original glassworks artist Nishinaka Yukito recreates the "imperfect beauty" tea master Oda Urakusai advocated 400 years ago. Explore what it means to recompose beauty through 2 artists heavily influenced by the giants of the Kyoto artworld.

The Tango district in northern Kyoto Pref. is Japan's largest producer of a supple fabric, supplying 60% of the kimono industry. The elegantly crimped texture makes it easy to dye. But with the proliferation of Western clothing, production has dropped to as far as 3% of the industry's heyday. The pandemic was an additional blow. Young artisans are exploring new materials to capture the world. Discover how this 300-year-old textile evolved and its ties with the ancient capital.

The traditional, wooden townhouses built prior to 1950 that dot the downtown area of Kyoto served as both living and work spaces. American Jeff Berglund, university professor and Kyoto tourism ambassador, lives in one built 160 years ago. A Japan resident for 50 years, Berglund aspires to living in harmony with nature. He honors the customs of old that are still practiced today and promotes Japan's culture abroad. Discover the pleasures of living in a Machiya through Berglund's daily encounters.

Reizei Kimiko is the daughter of the 24th head of a once aristocratic family. Together with her husband, she upholds traditions in Waka poetry and other court rituals. Sugimoto Setsuko, the 10th generation of a former merchant family, preserves their Machiya townhouse for posterity and promotes the Obanzai style of cooking. Maintaining their family foundations, they both have faced adversity with the current pandemic. Discover the joy, pride and responsibility of carrying on family traditions.

Mountainous Keihoku in Kyoto's north is more than 90% woodlands. The drastic temperature differences and the frequent rain and mist are ideal conditions for forestry. For more than 1,200 years the area supported the ancient capital's prosperity, supplying it with raw materials and food supplies. Residents carry on the trades of their ancestors, coexisting with nature. Discover how Keihoku is attracting attention from people wanting to learn the customs of old to build a sustainable future.

Hosoo Masataka, the 12th-generation of a Nishijin brocade producer, is making waves abroad as he updates the Nishijin brand with new technology and textiles. Tokyo-based architect Aoki Jun is director of the Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art that reopened in 2020. His renovations introduced an open-plan that blends in with the surroundings and encourages interaction among visitors. Both share a deep appreciation of Kyoto aesthetics: one from within the city and the other from outside.

The five seasonal festivals to drive out evil originate in Yin and Yang philosophy. The most important is the Double Ninth festival on September 9, the largest, single-digit odd number. Chrysanthemums, a medicinal herb, are used for purification in the 1,000-year-old longevity rituals; hence, the festival's name. A chrysanthemum-boy doll, Noh plays, children's sumo, and floss-adorned chrysanthemums. Discover how the Chrysanthemum Festival has taken on new significance during the pandemic.

From the late 1800s to the early 1900s, dominant political and business figures owned villas in neighborhoods at the foot of the Higashiyama mountains. Many of their gardens were built by the pioneer of the modern Japanese garden, Ogawa Jihei VII. While Kyoto's cityscape was transforming after the fall of feudalism, Jihei designed spaces of comfort in a desire to return Kyoto to its glory days of scenic beauty. Discover natural spaces of calculated beauty that offer solace during the pandemic.

Designers and kimono-lovers are sparking a kimono revolution in imaginative ways. They weave global tastes into orthodox fabrics, coordinate kimono with Western-style clothing, and adventurously employ materials from different fields into this time-honored Japanese attire. They are also testing new approaches so they can ride out the pandemic. Discover how the evolution of the kimono is spurred on by bold designers drawing on aspects of Kyoto sensibilities and traditional craftsmanship.

As the traditional confectionery industry wanes due to a growing preference for Western-style sweets, the younger generation of confectioners are using modern sensibilities to attract consumers. Some use only organic ingredients. Others create dry confections with pop designs. A heritage confectioner delivers fresh sweets for people to enjoy the seasons at home. A cafe serves the unthinkable pairing of Kyoto confections with sake. Discover how these innovative approaches invigorate tradition.

Flames rising from behind, piercing eyes and an enraged expression, statues of Fudo Myo-o hold a sword and lasso, both ritual implements. Despite its formidable appearance, this deity has a wide following among devotees and common folk alike. The solid power it emits has attracted many people craving comfort during the coronavirus pandemic. Discover the faith and customs surrounding Fudo Myo-o, and the undertakings of a monk cum Buddhist sculptor who is captivated by this protective guardian.

Kyoto is dotted with Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines offering amulets for health, longevity, safety, easy childbirth and other blessings. An amulet warding off an epidemic centuries ago now eases Kyotoites' anxiety in the age of COVID-19. But amulets change with the times. A card that slips into a wallet and a microSD containing a Buddhist image for uploading to a mobile device keep the deities' spirits close by. Discover the charm of amulets through their history and their creation process.

Glass arrived in Japan with the Christian missionaries in the 16th century. Kyoto aristocrats, high-ranking samurai and wealthy merchants used the much-prized foreign glassware as a gesture of hospitality toward guests. Today, locally made glassware continues to evolve within the fields of cookery, art and the sciences. Various materials are fused with precision and rustic sensibilities. Discover the essence of Kyoto values and aesthetic sensibilities through the works of master glassmakers.

Women in Kyoto through the ages, like their counterparts around the world, have always desired the most beautiful and impressive fashion accessories to complement their outfits. Today, artisans from various fields are applying their respective traditional crafts to produce unusual, vogue adornments. The results range from sophisticated to adorable, with each embodying the refined quality Kyoto is known for. Discover craftspeople who expand their creativity through their wearable works of art.

Bamboo has long been used in architecture and everyday tools. Today the Kyoto bamboo industry is in decline due to lifestyle changes and the lack of bamboo craftsmen. One artisan uses traditional methods to create fashion accessories. A fence builder promotes bamboo through QR codes and artworks. A master craftsman developed fireproof bamboo and nurtures new talent to expand his market. Discover how the younger generation is working to revive interest in bamboo by infusing modern sensibilities.

A girl in her first year receives dolls representing an emperor and empress. People give each other Senmaizuke turnip pickles at year's end. In December, maiko present their dance teachers with mochi rice cakes and receive folding fans in return. In Kyoto, the custom of giving gifts at milestones and at the change of seasons has its origins in ancient court ceremonies that express gratitude and celebration. Discover the Kyoto culture of building and maintaining relationships through gift giving.

The performing art of Noh has a history stretching back more than 600 years and is registered on UNESCO's list of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Masked actors in sumptuous costumes use dance to convey stories of ghosts seeking salvation, with dialog and narration sung to musical accompaniment. These ancient spiritual stories still speak to people today. Discover a popular form of theater through Kyoto's many amateur performers and the professionals who want to spread its appeal.

With kimono no longer everyday attire, Kyoto's dyeing industry faces decline. But people are taking on the challenge of ensuring the traditional techniques will survive. An artist specializing in Katazome stencil dyeing evokes distinctive worlds with profound, vibrant hues, unattainable with brushes and paint. An artisan has introduced 3D printing to Kyo-kanoko tie-dyeing for a fresh perspective. Discover the new wave of innovation bringing today's traditional dyeing culture into the future.

The dignified crests adorning various items from "noren" curtains to temple roofs are a common sight in Kyoto. These symbols of families and organizations originated over 1,000 years ago. Once the privilege of the imperial household and samurai class, they were adopted by merchants and the populace as marks of status and pride. Their refined designs have now caught the attention of people abroad. Discover the crests that are emblematic of old Kyoto families preserving their heritage.

Many of Japan's traditional toys and playthings originate in the culture of the imperial court 1,000 years ago: a lavish shell game, Fushimi figurines that are thought to have inspired clay figures now made throughout Japan, spinning tops made of cloth and bamboo, and a card game based around classical poems. The expert craftsmanship behind each item makes them veritable works of art. Discover the playful hearts of Kyotoites through the games and toys that have delighted them through the ages.

The origins of the local sushi, which does not use raw fish and places importance on the rice, lie in mackerel sushi. The fish needed to be salted to prevent spoilage on its journey to landlocked Kyoto. So, to balance its saltiness, the mackerel was paired with sweet vinegared rice. The sushi catered to special occasions and the entertainment districts emphasizes presentation, so it is prepared to sate diners' eyes and palates. Discover the chefs who have elevated Kyoto sushi to an art form.

Buddhists faithful intone "Namu Amida Butsu" in ardent prayer to Amida Buddha for the release from suffering and death in this world into the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. "Namu" means to embrace or take refuge in something. In this ideology, believers supplicate for a peaceful death and salvation in the afterlife. Discover the diverse faiths in Amida through Kyoto temples, the majority of which are dedicated to this celestial Buddha.

Traditional Kyoto store frontages feature latticework, a "noren" entrance curtain and perhaps a signboard. Confectioner, retailer or restaurant - most trades developed their own distinct style. These were refined over centuries by the local culture, values, love of the changing seasons and aesthetic sensibilities. With pride, owners add their own special touches to enhance the enticement. Discover the spirit of "motenashi" hospitality that awaits you beyond the "noren" of Kyoto's serene storefronts.

Kabuki evolved from the unorthodox dances of a female performer in Kyoto in the early 1600's. The Minamiza is the only remaining theatre of the many that operated in its time. The name Kabuki derives from the verb kabuku, which refers to unusual dancing and bold behavior. Festive Kaomise Performances and maneki signboards heighten pre-season anticipation for fans of the genre. Discover Kyoto's swaggering and innovative spirit through the reopening of the Minamiza after a three-year refurbishment.

It may come as a surprise that Kyoto -- the capital of Japanese cuisine -- leads the country in the consumption of Western culture's staple food. Bread entered through Yokohama and Kobe during modernization in the mid-1800's and soon took root in Kyoto, leading to a flourishing bakery culture centered around snack buns and sandwiches, as practical, novelty-loving Kyotoites took to the convenience and modernity of baked goods. Discover Kyoto's love of the new through its embrace of bread.

Many modern buildings for use by ordinary citizens, such as homes, schools, and restaurants, sprang up around Kyoto in the early 1900's. Kyotoites desired buildings that blended in with the natural environment and suited the local lifestyle. So they erected impressive structures merging the latest Western technology and design with Japanese flair. Discover Kyoto's modern architecture through the citizens who aimed to revitalize the city through their quest for buildings befitting the new age.

Sagano, long referred to as Saga, is located east of Arashiyama -- one of Japan's most scenic spots. Its lush nature and seasonal beauty enchanted the court nobility who made it their retreat a millennium ago. It is still regarded as a special destination. Daikaku-ji was once the villa of Emperor Saga. Many other temples and shrines are the settings for literary and historical tales. Discover the relaxing, peaceful qualities of Sagano through the people dedicated to conserving its picturesque scenery.

Kyoto has a particular profusion of Shinto shrines and festivals. The sacred and ritual objects, and priestly vestments used in Shinto are made in accordance with a 1,000-year-old system of conventions governing laws and religious rites called Yusoku Kojitsu. Discover the dedication of artisans as they adhere to rules dictating the form, color, materials and techniques used to craft divine objects.

The biggest event in the mountain village of Hirogawara in northern Kyoto is held in late August. Men hurl flaming bundles into the air to light a torch towering 20m high in prayer for good health and harvests. Originating from a fire prevention ritual held when the main local industry was charcoal making, villagers still start preparing months in advance. Discover the efforts being made to maintain this 300-year-old summer festival despite concerns for the future of this depopulating village.

In Japan's humid summers, people cool themselves with fans that can be conveniently folded away. Large folding fans, or ogi, were first used as symbols of nobility in Heian court rituals over 1,000 years ago. Later, smaller folding fans, or sensu, were incorporated into festivals, the performing arts and tea ceremony, and came to be recognized as works of art embellished with gold, silver and lacquer. Still a part of life today, discover the cooling arts of Kyoto-made sensu through the ages.

Tatami's history stretches back 800 years to the imperial court. Later it evolved with the tea ceremony and with the lifestyles of ordinary people. Tatami has influenced comportment, and even determines the arrangement of participants and utensils in a tea ceremony room. Demand for high quality tatami in Kyoto ensures hand-sewing and other skills are passed on among expert craftsmen. Discover the flooring culture of the ancient capital that gives Japanese rooms their traditional atmosphere.

Japanese pepper, or sansho, is characterized by a fresh aroma and a tongue-numbing tingle. A sprinkle of it can dramatically perk up the flavor of food. Used in Japanese cooking for over 1,000 years, it has given birth to many local delicacies, as well as a proverb that means, "size isn't everything". Every part of the plant, from the young leaves to the flowers, berries and even the bark, is used. Discover why Kyoto chefs cherish this almighty magical seasoning that is both an herb and a spice.

The satoyama style of living in harmony with nature, and the customs that influenced life in the ancient capital, survive in the mountains north of central Kyoto. An old inn in the town of Hanase continues to serve the local specialty, tsumikusa (foraged wild foods) cuisine. Miyama is famous for its thatching tradition, and the local artisans use skills passed down for generations to re-thatch Kyoto's many temples and shrines. Discover the local customs that keep Kyoto's culture alive.

1,000 years ago, aristocrats would compose short waka poems seated by a babbling brook at the imperial palace, sipping sake and admiring the changes in the seasons. This outdoor party was revived at Jonangu Shrine in 1970. Experts tend the recreated period garden, and poets yearning for a bygone era strive to render the spirit of their Heian forebears. A court dancer provides a dance accompaniment. Discover the passion of those who breathe life into an elegant historical event.

Mirei Shigemori, a prolific landscape artist based in Kyoto from the late 1920's, is famous for the striking and abundant creativity of his gardens. He made a powerful impact on garden design in Kyoto with his checkerboard-patterned gardens and dry karesansui gardens that use dynamic rock groupings, such as Hasso-no-niwa at Tofuku-ji and Joko-no-niwa at Matsunoo Taisha. Discover the ageless modernity of Mirei's revolutionary designs that continue to stimulate, inspire and influence people today.

Vividly painted clamshells and a pristine cypress helmet -- these and other works bear a legacy of beauty and formality dating back over 1,200 years to the Heian dynasty. Behind them lies a code of practices governing the color and form of all aspects of Heian court life from rites to attire. It remains foremost in artisans' minds as they strive to give their work dignity and form. Discover the fervent desire of the imperial court for health and happiness through the artisans' reproductions.

Red and black demons beating drums and gongs dance through the streets of Kyoto's north in the Yasurai Matsuri, one of the city's three most curious festivals. In days of old, pestilence ran rampant every year when the cherry blossoms fell. Locals believed the 2 were linked, so with lively dances they lured deities of plagues under a bright umbrella to return them to the shrine for the year. Discover local beliefs through the lens of a festival that continues in this age of advanced medicine.

Maiko are the charming symbol of Kyoto's kagai entertainment districts. Their hairstyle and hair ornaments are key elements of their kawaii appeal. The ornaments are changed every month to reflect the flowers of the season, while the hairstyle differs according to what stage a maiko is in her career. The artisans making the items worn by maiko support the girls as though they were their own daughters. Discover the warmth of the people contributing to kagai culture through maiko hair ornaments.

Hot green tea poured over steamed rice topped with salted kombu kelp and other flavorings is commonly known as ochazuke, but called bubuzuke in Kyoto. Records from the 1800's show that common folk cooked rice once a day, at lunchtime, and for other meals they would pour hot tea over cold rice. Today topped with a colorful variety of pickles, or eel or sea bream, bubuzuke has become a local specialty in its own right. Discover the Kyoto spirit of frugality through a simple meal of rice and tea.

Kyoto City University of Arts was founded in 1880. Its educational policy emphasizes shasei – painting from life through intensive observation to glean a subject's true essence. It continues a practice advocated by 18th-century Kyoto artist, Maruyama Okyo. The university's alumni include leading painters in the art world and artisans in Kyoto's traditional arts and crafts. Discover the ethos underlying Kyoto art through the eyes of contemporary students of Nihonga Japanese-style painting.

The year end begins in mid-December. Maiko and geiko pay their respects to teachers. Decorations and other seasonal goods enjoy brisk sales at markets, homes are decorated and osechi cuisine is prepared. On New Year's Eve people give thanks for the old year at Yasaka Jinja, and the next day the Toshigami deity brings the New Year to every home. Families exchange greetings and feast on osechi with gratitude to the deity. Discover how Kyotoites revere the New Year through their long-held customs.

Kyotoites in days of old valued high quality fabric and woven textiles from abroad like gold. Pieces of these fabrics have been handed down and continue to fascinate people today. Their eternal beauty is preserved through repurposing as tea utensil pouches, tobacco holders, obi sashes and even as works of art. Weavers strive to learn the techniques used in days gone by in order to reproduce them. Discover the culture of reverence for the great beauty and skill to be found in old fabric pieces.

Mount Kurama, located north of urban Kyoto, is steeped in legend. Goblin-like creatures called Tengu are believed to live deep in the forest, where one allegedly taught swordsmanship to a 12th-century samurai general. Other legends swirl around Kurama-dera, the main temple. Kifune Jinja is dedicated to the water deity and draws many women wanting to discover their fortunes in love. Discover the mystic energy that surrounds one of Kyoto's prime "power spots" through the local folklore.

Kyoto's braided cords came into their own as fashion accessories for the nobility, 1,000 years ago. Elegant and practical, they were highly prized, and used in religious and formal settings. They came to be deployed in samurai armor, and their use then spread to the common folk, stimulating production. Today braided cords, with their fine detail, shine as bit players in various occasions in daily life. Discover the allure of Kyoto braided cords and the ancient culture of elegant fastenings.

Japanese believe their ancestors' spirits visit in mid-August. To safely guide the spirits back to the other world, they light bonfires on 5 mountains in the Gozan-no-okuribi ceremony. The residents charged with the Hidari-daimonji bonfire solemnly uphold the traditional spirit of prayer and allow only local participation. Here, a large torch is used to transport the fire from the temple at the foot of the mountain. Discover the customs that continue to bind the living and the dead in Kyoto.

In early summer, confectioners display traditional sweets shaped like ayu, or sweetfish. For Kyotoites, ayu is as important a summer fish as conger pike. For centuries, fresh seafood was limited in landlocked Kyoto, so ayu caught in the Kamo and Katsura Rivers was considered precious. So much so that according to 1,000-year-old records it was often gifted to the imperial court. Discover the rich culture inspired by this fresh summer delicacy that Kyotoites still cherish today.

Gion Matsuri was restored to its former glory in 2014, almost 50 years after its two processions were merged into one. Again one parade precedes the deities' journey from the shrine to their temporary abode during the festival, and another precedes their return. The festival's revival was led by the resurrection of the Ofune Hoko float after 150 years. Now the Taka Yama float, absent for 190 years, will also be rebuilt. Discover the pride and passion of locals in bringing back old traditions.

Nishiki Market, referred to as "Kyoto's kitchen", supplies local households and businesses with choice local cooking ingredients, including Kyoto vegetables and seafood. It began 1,000 years ago with fish peddlers, and in time a market evolved around the abundant local supply of pure artesian water. The market has faced many crises but survived, the driving force being the merchants' solidarity. Discover how the local merchants uphold the Nishiki brand through their workings and community ties.

Kyotoites have for centuries refrained from directly conveying their true sentiments. Instead, they have refined the art of gift wrapping as a means of subtle communication. As senders honed their skills, recipients became deft at perceiving the thoughts and feelings enclosed. However, this custom was not just a show of gratitude. The packages embrace a sense of the seasons, sympathy, or delight as the recipient opens them. Discover the hidden sentiments within the folds of wrapping culture.

Nenbutsu Kyogen is held at Kyoto temples in spring. This masked theater began here 1,000 years ago as group recitations of Buddhist teachings to receive greater blessings. In time this evolved into a means of imparting the teachings through comedic theater, and today amateur locals avidly perform and preserve the tradition. The 3 main temples are Seiryo-ji, Injo-ji and Mibu-dera. Discover the local's deep Buddhist faith and their strong community ties through this age-old performing art.

The business of araiya in Kyoto involves cleaning and restoring old temples, shrines, machiya-style townhouses, and other wooden structures to their former glory. The industry is sustained by many Kyotoites' desire to cherish and hand down their belongings over generations. Araiya essentially work by hand patiently using age-old techniques to remove the grime and stains from homes, furniture, and kimono, too. Discover Kyotoites' respect for history and continuity through the expertise of araiya.

Kanjiro Kawai was prolific in Kyoto in the mid-1900's. Originally from Shimane Prefecture, he devoted himself to pottery at Gojozaka, the hub for graceful Kiyomizu ceramics, for 46 years. He is regarded a master of glazes, and his works are characterized by an abundance of color and a strength of form. A leader of the Folk Arts Movement, he pursued the beauty of everyday implements. Discover how the cultural climate of Kyoto nurtured and supported Kawai as he pursued beauty within "life as work".

Kyoto's revitalization at the dawn of modernization in the 1860's was spurred by its 1,000-year history of tradition and innovation. The source of this vitality is the "generous and adaptable spirit" of Kyotoites. An exemplar of this is a painting of a kimono-clad woman playing the piano. Today the city – its temples and century-old buildings – continue to evolve. Discover modern Kyoto through the inheritors to the traditional crafts who are promoting their works to the world.

Tofu arrived from China along with Buddhism over a millennium ago. It further evolved in Japan as an ingredient in shojin-ryori vegetarian Zen cuisine and in time appeared on the tables of the common folk. The pursuit and refinement of tofu-making and its cooking in the ancient capital produced distinct varieties. The artisans curdle the mix of soybeans and water with bittern to give a taste that is profound in its simplicity and sophistication. Discover the food culture surrounding Kyoto Tofu.

Incense is primarily made by mixing natural plant-derived scents. It lends rooms ambience to welcome guests and is used in grooming. Originally burned in prayer, it now enrichens everyday life in Kyoto. "Kodo," or the way of incense, which arrived in Japan with Buddhism 1,500 years ago, has deep ties to the spiritual world. Aloeswood and other aromatic woods are cut to rice-sized pieces and appreciated following set protocols. Discover how incense is intertwined with the hearts of Kyotoites.

The soaring forest of tall, straight cedars in Kitayama, in Kyoto's northwest, is a glorious sight. Kitayama cedar -- known for its light color, uniform thickness, and smooth, knotless trunk -- is treasured as a material for floors and pillars in Japanese architecture. And daisugi cedars, pruned to produce dozens of tree-like offshoots from one trunk, are prized in gardens for their aesthetic value. Discover the allure of Kitayama cedar through the foresters who inherited their management.

Sento, or bathhouses, were built in Kyoto to cater to the large student and artisan population who lived in lodgings without baths. Many are worthy of historic note. One has been operating for 1,300 years; another is part of a temple complex. Some have splendid decors or interesting baths. Today they remain lively social hubs of their communities. A young manager strives to create a sento young people frequent. Discover the allure of sento where people gather to relieve the stress of the day.

The Kyoto State Guest House was built as a Japanese-style reception facility within the Kyoto Imperial Palace Park in 2005. This serene, elegant single-story facility hosts dignitaries from around the world. As of 2016 it is now open to the public year-round. Seasoned Kyoto craftsmen in traditional architecture and the industrial arts applied their expertise to imbue it with the ultimate in hospitality. Discover another facet to Kyoto sensibilities through their impeccable attention to detail.

Some 1,000 years ago, monks from warring Mt. Hiei and nobles from the capital retreated from the world in rustic Ohara, northeast of Kyoto. The monks perfected the practice of shomyo, a melodic singing of Buddhist sutras, and in its heyday the village had as many as 50 practice halls. Ohara also was a sanctuary for nuns, and is known for the distinctively dressed local women called Oharame, who sold firewood in Kyoto. Discover the nature and history of Ohara through the deep faith at its heart.

Some 10,000 stone Jizo Buddhist statues dot the streets of Kyoto. At the end of summer, children gather at the street corners where the statues stand for lively Jizo Bon festivities. This annual event, where people pray for the health and success of their children, is also an opportunity for neighborhoods to strengthen their ties. Discover a cornerstone of ordinary Kyoto citizen's faith through the small, charming Jizo statues that are an integral part of local life.

The Kiyomizu Rokubey studio, one of Kyoto's leading potteries, was established 245 years ago. Led by the current Rokubey, the 8th generation to take the name, it continues to produce elegant yet practical ceramics. Rokubey Ⅷ is also a leading ceramic artist making original art objects. Yakushi-ji in Nara, which holds superb Buddhist art works, commissioned him to create a piece that will retain its presence throughout time. Discover the work of Rokubey as he strives to fulfill this request.

Paper talismans protecting against fire are common sights in Kyoto homes. People receive them at Atago Jinja, situated on top of a rugged mountain. The shrine holds Sennichi mairi, or the 1,000-day pilgrimage, on the evening of July 31. Worshippers believe that if they make the grueling trek they have 1,000 days' worth of protection against fire-related disasters. Discover the deep faith in Atago as more than 10,000 Kyotoites undertake the pilgrimage with gratitude for the gifts fire bestows.

Kyoto is surrounded by mountains on 3 sides, so the city is concentrated in the basin where summers are sultry. Over the centuries, Kyotoites contrived ways to stay cool. They dread the heat but revel in the traditions. Come June, they prepare themselves physically and mentally by replacing the winter fittings, holding rituals for good health, and eating sweets that resemble ice. Discover the ingenuity and aesthetic beauty behind the customs Kyotoites observe to live in harmony with nature.

Kata-yuzen is a Kyoto yuzen dyeing method that sometimes requires as many as 100 stencils to complete a bolt of kimono fabric. The development of this method saved dyers much time and enabled mass production. The most skill-intensive task is the carving of the washi paper to create the stencils. The elaborate designs and sharp lines that are difficult to attain by hand are captivating. Discover how the Kata-yuzen techniques were refined through the Kyotoites passionate pursuit of stunning kimono.

The ancient capital's dignified air of yesteryear is in part generated by earthen walls: the walls of the imperial palace, shrines, temples and even private properties. Earthen walls imbue tea houses with a rustic air. Kyoto is blessed with soil of a color ideal for these walls. Plasterers over centuries developed and refined their technique to produce walls befitting a capital. Discover the aesthetic sensibilities and expertise of traditional plasterers as they pursue beauty in earthen walls.

During the spring and fall tourist seasons Kyoto's shrines and temples open their usually hidden treasures to the public. The Buddhist statues and paintings, and other precious cultural assets that have survived centuries are threatened by degeneration, so special exhibitions are held to raise funds through entrance fees for repairing and preserving the objects. Discover Kyoto's fervor for preserving its cultural assets through the hidden treasures exhibited in Fushimi in spring 2016.

Kyoto artist Insho Domoto was prolific in the mid-20th century. He painted more than 600 dynamic sliding door paintings for Tofuku-ji, Chishaku-in and other major Buddhist temples in styles ranging from traditional Nihonga painting to innovative abstract painting. He has influenced a range of fields, such as sculpture, architecture, and the designs of traditional confectionery and accessories. Discover how "innovation is tradition" in Kyoto through works that reveal Domoto's creative spirit.

Traditional Kyoto machiya townhouses have narrow entrances, and are long and deep. At the back lie small tsubo-niwa gardens, enclosed on all sides. Originally serving to light and ventilate the house, they enabled residents to comfortably endure the intense, summer heat. Over time, people applied their simple, austere aesthetic sensibilities to create beauty in these confined spaces. Discover the wisdom behind these gardens through the local lifestyle and the expertise of the landscape artists.

Traditional woodblock prints in the ancient capital have a strong, distinct history. Their origins lie in the woodblock printing of Buddhist scriptures. Compared to the mass production of ukiyo-e prints that were popular with Edo (now Tokyo) residents, woodblock printers in Kyoto were more focused on quality over quantity, creating delicate, soft expressions of art with their honed skills. Discover the subtle, elaborate beauty through the expertise of the 3 artists involved in process.

The world's oldest orchestral music, gagaku was imported from mainland China in ancient times. The melody is not based on a scale, yet the tunes are gentle, unmetered tones of continuous notes. The shakuhachi flute is a Buddhist instrument that brings enlightenment. The koto zither was much loved among the ancient aristocracy. The guitar-like shamisen entertains banquet guests in the flower districts. Discover the eternal tunes that harmonized the musical instruments' nature with human emotions.

The obi sash is an integral accessory for the kimono. One company has produced opulent Nishijin-ori obi for more than 120 years. A lady conveys the obi's allure through fitting classes. A dresser deftly ties the trailing obi of the Gion maiko. Fastened with a decorative cord, the obi is the final touch in a kimono ensemble. Its form manifests the obi's rich history and the sentiments of the people who produce or tie them. Discover the profound world hiding in a beautiful obi and its knot.

The streets of Kyoto are dotted with many cozy-looking restaurants, which some may feel awkward about entering. Many of these small restaurants, referred to as koryoriya, specialize in Japanese cuisine. The owner-chefs behind the counter, who take the orders personally, pride themselves on serving food that complements the drink, and vice versa. So koryoriya are places to enjoy good food, good drinks and good conversation. Discover the allure of Kyoto's food culture and how to enjoy koryoriya.

Kyo-kanoko shibori is the general term used for tie-dyed fabric made in Kyoto. The bumpy pattern on the fabric's surface is mesmerizing with its delicate shadows. Binding parts of the fabric to leave undyed areas allows certain colors to bleed and lends the design solidity. Each stage in the process has its own specialized artisan for design, binding, dyeing, and other stages in between. Discover the alluring world of Kyo-kanoko shibori through the dexterous hands of passionate artisans.

Suiseki is the appreciation of natural stone shapes using poetic imagination to visualize magnificent mountain, island or waterfall landscapes. This pastime arrived from China in the late 1100s and spread among Kyoto aristocrats and Zen monks. Suiseki's beauty lies in the stones' understated simplicity and becalming quality. The Seven Stones of Kamo found in the Kamo River basin are prized in suiseki circles. Discover the profound world of rock appreciation that evolved in the old capital.

Kyo-yaki, or artistic ceramics fired in Kyoto, evolved within the rich culture of the ancient capital as crockery for the local cuisine and as utensils in tea ceremony. One potter, who devotes his life to overglaze enamels, renders refined patterns and colors on his pieces. Another has refined his molding skills and creates pieces that are easy for chefs to use. These ceramics embody the Kyotoites' desire to please their guests. Discover how the charm of Kyo-yaki ceramics grows with use.

Over its 1,000 year history as capital, Kyoto attracted craftsmen with outstanding artistry from around Japan. They made quality implements and furnishings, and the craft developed a distinct Kyoto refinement that became renowned. The craftsmen's knowledge of wood they work and their command of the delicate processes convey the traditions that survive to this today. Discover how various Kyoto woodcraft traditions evolved by watching the turners, joiners, coopers and other craftsmen at work.

Kyoto cuisine evolved in the old capital to please aristocratic eyes and palates. The local soft underground water inspired a cuisine that draws out flavors using dashi stock. Seafood was geographically hard to get, so locals refined techniques and contrivances, and the use of seasonings and utensils, for making tasty dishes with the available produce. Artisans provide quality products to maintain this food culture. Discover how the chefs' attention to detail brings out the ultimate in flavors.

For Heian aristocrats some 1,200 years ago, Kyoto life was the world of officialdom. Uji, located southeast of the capital, was the retreat where they let their bodies and minds run free. It represented the transience of the material world as depicted in the classic novel, The Tale of Genji. The nobles embraced Uji-grown tea, which sustained the tea ceremony, and the pastime of cormorant fishing, and gave them form. Byodo-in was later built by the Jodo Sect to represent the Pure Land of Buddha.

The ancient capital was devastated during a period of intense war lasting 2 centuries until the late 16th century, when Toyotomi Hideyoshi assumed supreme power. He envisioned rebuilding a city that would prosper through a free economy and a stable government. A rampart was built around Kyoto, and rezoning increased residential areas. Hideyoshi's palace of gold was a symbol of his glory, and he influenced the lavish Momoyama culture. Discover the traces of Hideyoshi's legacy in Kyoto, today.

Shidashi-ryori is Kyoto hospitality. Kyotoites do not serve visitors and honored guests homemade dishes on ceremonial occasions. The convention is to entrust the preparations to trusted caterers. The caterers fulfill their customers' needs, be they budgetary or ingredients. Caterers in different districts specialize for the local clientele: shojin-ryori for temples, kaiseki for tea gatherings, courses for entertainment districts. Discover bento meals and other various forms of shidashi-ryori.

Kyoto is home to many Buddhist and Shinto head temples and shrines. The approaches to the gates have long attracted vendors plying local specialties to worshippers. Kiyomizudera Monzenkai was formed by vendors along Kiyomizu-dera's approach as a vigilante group to protect the temple. When Nishihongan-ji was established 400 years ago, a "temple town" developed near its gates, and it thrives today with stores selling Buddhist items. Toji's Kobo Market connects the hearts of everyone who gathers.

The decorative arts evolved throughout during the city's 1,200-year history and survive today. Kyoto's reputation commands the highest quality, and many works of stunning beauty emerged as artisans refined their techniques and aesthetic sensibilities. With strict attention to detail, the artisans devote themselves to and project their sensitivities onto each piece they create. Discover the pinnacle of Kyoto beauty as seen in the supreme decorative arts of Kirikane, Shippo, Kyo-nui and Raden.

Kyogen is a traditional performing art, popular in Kyoto for more than 600 years. Noh evolved at around the same time and draws many of its tragic plots from historical events. But Kyogen is more accessible, because it uses the vernacular and draws humorous themes from everyday situations, such as blunders and marital tiffs and other events. The Shigeyama family has been active in the art since the early 1700s. Mibu Kyogen evolved as religious drama. Discover the Kyoto's culture of laughter.

In the late 1800's Kyoto architects and builders were the first to embrace change as Japan modernized. They incorporated the unusual Western designs into their buildings, changing the cityscape with its many temples and shrines. The great achievements of these pioneers remain today, used as public institutions, places of learning, worship and business. Conspicuous yet congruous, they represent the dawn of a new era. Discover the modern architecture in the ancient capital, whose colors never fade.

Kannon Bosatsu is warmly worshipped, a comfort for the heart. The subject of many paintings and statues, he saves people across Buddhist sects. The 11-faced Kannon faces each direction in search of people to save. The 1,000-armed Kannon holds objects used to relieve people's anguish. Kiyomizu-dera, where memorial services are held for him, attracts worshippers seeking salvation. Watch a sculptor carve a statue of Kannon. Discover the deep faith Kannon has drawn among Kyotoites over centuries.

After the first cafe opened in Kyoto in 1930, a coffee culture flourished as coffee salons enjoyed the patronage of local merchants, who prided themselves on staying abreast of the latest fashions. Kyotoites always placed the utmost importance on hospitality. Cafes may be relatively new to the cityscape, but they exude the local spirit of hospitality. Owners of distinct cafes find ingenious ways to infuse their service with this ethos. Discover the charm of Kyoto cafes while sipping on a brew.

Kyotoites have an affinity for the kimono that shares deep ties with traditional culture. A kimono researcher explains its aesthetics and the wisdom within this traditional clothing. The obi is an infinite expression of beauty. Wearing white socks is a sign of purity. Generations wear the same kimono, because it can be re-sown. Men's kimono exude style with lavish patterns in the coat lining and the family crest on formalwear. Discover the world of kimono, imbued with Kyoto's sensibilities.

In the ancient capital, sake was for religious and imperial rites. Made exclusively at the imperial brewery, the process evolved under the influence of palace cuisine. Kyoto with its bountiful water supply is ideal for production, and Fushimi later prospered as the sake brewing area. Gaining attention with the popularity of Japanese cuisine, sake is one of few alcoholic beverages in the world served hot or chilled. Discover the brewing process and the influence Kyoto sake had on Japan's culture.

February 3 is New Year's Eve by the old, lunar calendar and is the boundary between winter and spring. On this day, called Setsubun, households scatter soybeans for good fortune in the coming year, expelling the demons that represent misfortune and calamity. The shrine Yoshida Jinja protects Kyoto at the 'demon's gate' in the northeast with a ritual in which the 'shaman' wears a four-eyed mask. Farmers in rural areas uphold the custom of driving out moles. Disguised geiko pray for protection against evil. Discover how Kyotoites pray for order in life through these safeguarding traditions.

Kyoto tsukemono, or pickles, are made with various combinations of pickles and agents to preserve seasonal vegetables. Of these, three major varieties are still made using unique methods. Suguki turnip pickles, once made by Shinto priestly clans, have a rich, sour taste. Shibazuke pickled eggplants have the reddish hue of shiso leaves. One family makes senmaizuke white-turnip pickles with a special recipe. Discover the wisdom and skill accumulated over centuries that make vegetables tastier.

Around 400 years ago, Sen-no-rikyu pursued the art of heart-to-heart communication through a bowl of tea and advanced the wabi-cha style of tea ceremony, stressing the beauty within simplicity. The utensils are vital in conveying the hosts' sentiments. The essence of wabi-cha pervades the utensils made by 10 artisan families, purveyors to the Sen clan. Watch these artisans at work in a range of crafts from lacquerware to joinery and discover the spirit and aesthetic sensibilities of Kyoto.

Fushimi Inari Taisha is famous worldwide for the vermillion shrine gates that line the paths in the mountain behind it, where its origins lie. Worshippers seeking happiness have visited this sacred ground where the deities rest for centuries. One family prays religiously every month for business prosperity. Another has the divided spirit of the deity protecting their home and business. Kyotoites live for the future, every day in thanks, through the shrine that embodies their unwavering faith.

The Japanese believe their ancestors' spirits return from the other world to visit during Obon in mid-August. The Gozan-no-okuribi ceremony to send them off is held in Kyoto at the end of Obon on August 16. Bonfires are lit on five Kyoto mountains as guides for the spirits to find their way back safely. Watch the locals' prepare for this fiery traditional event in the Matsugasaki area of Kyoto, where two of the bonfires are lit, and discover the ancient customs of the living and the dead.

Ogres, specters, demons, ghosts and hell. The ancient capital's many myths of the spirit world seem fantastic today. Kyoto's citizens lived in fear and awe of the other world and appealed to the deities for help. They honored milestones and kept the annual events in thanks to the deities for their protection. Consequences of the city's prosperity, the legends have origins in the deep in the recesses of the human mind, and the epidemics and wars that occurred throughout Kyoto's history.

The Kyoto basin is blessed with fertile soil and an abundant supply of good water. Kyoto winters are frigid; and summers, scorching. This environment yields eggplants, pumpkin, and other produce known as 'Kyoto vegetables', many of which have been grown for more than 150 years. One local farmer works to promote new varieties, while students try to revive an almost extinct variety of gourd. Discover the allure of nutritional, flavorsome Kyoto vegetables in the hands of various chefs.

Shinto shrines have sacred shimenawa ropes, bells with cords attached, mirrors, various fittings, and ceremonial ornamentation that have adorned these places of worship since time immemorial. Made from wood, metal, silk threads, hemp, and other materials, this ornamentation became more elaborate and brilliant in the hands of artisans who gathered in the ancient capital, Heian-kyo, when it was established some 1,200 years ago. These crafts, which live on today, link worshippers with the deities.

Kyoto is home to most Buddhist head temples, which shaped the ancient capital's historical landscape and fascinate visitors. Shichido-garan, the 7 most important buildings for Zen religious training, are positioned in the shape of a person. Maintaining temples for centuries, carpenters conduct major repairs at Chion-in and thatch Kiyomizu-dera's main-hall with cypress bark using traditional roofing methods. Look at the world of Buddhist architecture, sustained by craftsmanship and faith.

Filled with noble, graceful dignity, Kyoto dolls have long embodied people's prayers, relieved loneliness, and represented prayers for their children's growth. Connected to dynastic culture, these dolls evolved in the hands of talented Kyoto artisans. Edo-period craftsmen honed their doll-making skills, and these techniques are still practiced. Hina dolls reflect adoration for the nobility. Gosho dolls were adored at the palace. Find out how people's hearts are connected through Kyoto dolls.

Kyo-yuzen fabric has distinct patterns and splendid, delicate colors. Kyo-yuzen dyed kimono brighten special occasions in Kyoto. A lady takes extra care of her grandmother's kimono that is filled with joyous memories. An established wholesaler and its skilled artisans resolutely provide the ultimate in kyo-yuzen. An artist, whose one aim is to make women shine beautifully, breathes life into kyo-yuzen. Admire the beauty of Kyoto attire through kyo-yuzen, nurtured by a refined eye for beauty.

Kyoto has long-been a leading bamboo-growing region. Bamboo was considered holy in ancient times for its strong vitality. It is used at shrines and palaces as the barrier between the sacred and secular worlds. Gagaku music for the deities is played on bamboo instruments. Since Heian times, this durable, pliable material was important in the development of Japanese architecture in Kyoto, such as garden gates and fences. Bamboo also appears in various capacities in the diet and clothing of Kyoto.

Tawaraya Sotatsu, who emerged from Kyoto's merchant class, was one pioneer of the Rimpa School in the early Edo Period, and Ogata Korin consolidated it in the mid-Edo Period. The school is not hereditary but is propagated by artists, who admire Sotatsu and Korin, and follow their styles. Rimpa is characterized by a notable use of space; abstract, vibrant designs; and creative playfulness. The works of Kyoto-based Nihonga artists continue the Rimpa style 400 years after its inception.

The butsudan Buddhist family altar was built as a miniature of the temple dais upon which the main image stands, so families could worship at home. Reflecting the Pure Land in this world, butsudan not only hold Buddhist images but are also vehicles for people to communicate with their ancestors. Kyoto altars, called kin-butsudan, are decked with gold metalwork and maki-e lacquer. Their beauty is an unparalleled work of art. Strongholds of the heart, kin-butsudan show the core of Kyoto culture.

Calligraphy is the art of writing characters with a brush. The use of kanji characters, which entered from China, spread with the practice of copying sutras. In temples and shrines, the art projects the state of the practitioner's mind. Calligraphy developed independently through the kana syllabary 1,200 years ago. Kana calligrapher Koho Hibino, master of a flowing style, says it embodies Japanese emotional and aesthetic sensibilities. Discover the essence of the black-and-white realm of calligraphy.

Ikebana is the traditional art of flower arranging. Developed in Kyoto it merges Asian naturalism with the floral offerings to Buddhist altars. The Ikenobo headmaster upholds the school's 550-year-old tradition. A potter imagines vases as extensions of the flowers they hold. A practitioner creates progressive arrangements steeped in tradition. Plants are not mere ornaments. Practitioners impose their lives on that of the flowers. Ikebana's quintessence is in the representation of life as beauty.

Obanzai are the frugal side dishes that grace dinner tables daily in Kyoto - the home of washoku, or Japanese cuisine. Cooked to make the staple dish of rice taste delicious, they use only simple ingredients. The wisdom in the preparation is eco-friendly; scraps are reused, none are discarded. The menu handed down in the Sugimoto clan for more than 200 years embodies the spirit of obanzai. Washoku was added to UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2013, and obanzai is in the spotlight.

Traditional washi paper flourished in the temples, shrines and palaces of the ancient capital. Enduring today, this versatile paper is used to decorate interiors, such as sliding doors and hanging scrolls. Kurotani has been the papermaking center of Kyoto washi for 800 years. Katazome-washi is dyed with traditional yuzen-dyeing patterns. Useless washi and centuries-old books are used in recycle-themed artworks. The efforts of Kyoto's artisans and artists nurture Kyoto's washi culture.

Kyoto confections are Wagashi, or traditional confections, infused with Kyoto's charm and influenced by the tea ceremony. With beautiful designs and names that subtly reflect the seasons, tea confections are an art form to be appreciated with the 5 senses. When making these confections, importance is placed on the semblance and name they are given. Inspiration is drawn from local nature, art, music and literature. Feel Japan's culture, nature and climate through flavorsome Kyoto confections.

As demand for lacquerware grew in the political and cultural hub of Kyoto, artisans refined their designs and techniques with a distinctive approach to aesthetic beauty. This became kyo-shikki, or Kyoto-style lacquerware. The maki-e drawing technique uses sprinkled gold dust on a jet-black background to reproduce dazzling Kyoto scenes. Modern sensibilities combined with traditional techniques produce innovative pieces. Lacquer and gold dust engender the lavish world of this traditional craft.

Kyoto has many mountain springs, rivers and groundwater. The capital relocated here about 1,200 years ago for the water supply that enriched the citizens' lives and gave rise to Kyoto's culture. Farmers grow vegetables in the fertile delta. Craftspeople continue the kurozome dying traditions. A namafu wheat-gluten store relies on quality groundwater. Supporting them are well sinkers with an extensive knowledge of groundwater arteries. Ever grateful, the locals use water as their livelihood.

In the 1200's, the monk Dogen brought shojin-ryori, a vegetarian cuisine, from China along with Zen Buddhism, which forbids the killing of animals and the eating of meat. He once said, "Meals and their preparation are part of aesthetic training". Kaiseki-ryori and other Japanese cuisine have their base in and developed from shojin-ryori, which wastes nothing of the seasonal vegetables and cereals used. Chefs, including a chef at a Michelin-rated restaurant, work to spread shojin-ryori worldwide.

Gion Matsuri began as a prayer for the country's health when 66 halberds were erected and 3 mikoshi shrines were paraded through plague-ravaged Heian-kyo in 869. The 33 yamahoko floats in today's climactic procession on July 17 are "moving museums". Revived in 1952, the Kikusui-hoko float was adorned this year with a new tapestry in gratitude to the ancestors. The festival music is traditionally taught orally. The floats are assembled with age-old technics. The streets are alive with revelry on the eve of the parade.