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Kyoto
was the ancient capital for approximately 1,000 years until 1867 when it
was moved to Tokyo by the Emperor after the Meiji Restoration. In 794 Emperor
Kammu established the capital "Heian Kyo" in this city. Surrounded
by mountains, one can enjoy the beautiful changes of nature throughout the
four seasons in Kyoto. It can be said Kyoto touches the heart of the Japanese
people as no other places of Japan does. Ancient Japan's traditional customs
and heritage have been continued through festivals and in the people's everyday
life. It has also been the center of Japanese culture in art, literature
and in education. Almost all of the National Treasures in culture are located
in Kyoto and in nearby Nara. Many magnificent structures of old shrines
and temples, screen paintings, marvelous gardens, and soft meditating statues
of Buddha have been carefully restored. |