The two ancient capitals — home
to treasures invaluable and traditions unsurpassed — have remained unchanged
over many centuries. Timehonored temples and traditionally serene streets evoke
nothing less than the image of "Japan" you've long dreamed of.
Kyoto was Japan's capital for over 1,000 years, and during
that time became the repository of much
of
the best of Japanese art, culture, religion, and thought. Kyoto can be reached
in 2 hrs. 40 min by Shinkansen super express from Tokyo and 1 hr. 15 min. from
the Kansai International Airport near
Osaka.
In the center of Kyoto you find the Kyoto Imperial Palace,
renowned as a pinnacle for its simplicity of Japanese architecture. (Note: You
must apply for a permit with your passport, 20 min. before the tour :10 a.m.
and / or 2 p.m.) Nearby is the more lavishly appointed Nijo Castle, home of the Tokugawa shogun on
his rare visits to the city.
The Gion Corner near Shijo-Kawaramachi is an excellent place to view
traditional arts and traditional theater. Rows of tastefully designed old-style
restaurants add to the distinctly refined atmosphere.
In the Higashiyama area, Sanjusangendo Temple is noted for its 1,001 gilded
wooden statues of Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy. Kiyomizu Temple is famous for its wide wooden
veranda jutting out over an exquisite valley that extends to a panoramic view
of the city. Ginkakuji Temple, or the Silver Pavilion, is renowned both for its
exquisite architecture and the beauty of its understated landscape gardens.
The Katsura Imperial Villa, located in western Kyoto, is
considered to be one of the finest examples of traditional Japanese
architecture and garden landscaping. The Shugakuin Imperial Villa was built in the 17th century by
the Tokugawa shogunate as a retreat for Emperor Go-Mizunoo. Permission must be obtained
from the Imperial Household Agency to visit these sites. Apply for a permit as
many days in advance as possible.
The Arashiyama district, only 20 min. by train from central Kyoto, is
dotted with many celebrated temples and shops. The area can be easily enjoyed on
foot or bicycle, offering a superb walking experience especially on those fine
weather days. Western Kyoto contains musts for the tourist - Kinkakuji and Ryoanji temples. The brilliant Kinkakuji, or
Golden Pavilion, is in excellent contrast to Ryoanji famed for its stone garden
which is simplicity itself designed with only rocks and white sand.
Nara, 42 km. (28 mi.) south of Kyoto, is an older capital
of Japan, and was also a major cradle of Japan's arts, crafts, literature, and
culture not to mention industry.
The major tourist attractions are clustered around Nara
Sta. Nara Park is popularly known as Deer Park
for its resident tame deer.
To the west lies Kofukuji Temple, founded in 710. Many valuable Buddhist statues are
exhibited in the National Treasure House, and nearby is a fivestoried pagoda
which is mirrored in the Sarusawa Pond.
The Nara National Museum contains a collection of Buddhist
art with pieces from every period. But perhaps the most famous of Nara's many ancient
attractions is Todaiji Temple, where the Great Buddha of Nara sits. The
Daibutsuden, where the Great Buddha is housed, is claimed to be the world's
largest wooden structure.
Another attraction is the colorful Kasuga Grand Shrine erected in 768 — one of the most
famous Shinto shrines in Japan. The vermilion-lacquered buildings create a
beautiful contrast to the surrounding greenery. Some 1,800 stone lanterns stand
in the shrine precincts and 1,000 metal lanterns are suspended from the eaves
of its
corridors.
Horyuji Temple, 45 min. by rail from Nara Sta., is not only superbly
beautiful but one of the most important temples in Japan. The temple, the
oldest intact temple complex in Japan, was founded in 607. Around 40 buildings
make up the complex, and are said to be the world's oldest wooden structures.
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