Spared the ravages of WWII, (Kyoto fortunately avoided the fires that swept other cities) so many ancient temples and shrines remain standing and have been thus able to retain their true character. This slice of fortune has lead directly to Kyoto retaining some of Japan's best sightseeing spots with many of them only enhanced by the changes in the seasons that seem to envelop them throughout the year. Various traditions and works of art were initiated and developed in Kyoto over the centuries and over 70 kinds of high-quality craft products are still made in the city today. These include the renowned Nishijinori, Kyoyuzen, Kyoningyo and Kyosensu works among others with all associated production techniques being passed down to the artists of today by the experts of yesterday. Another side effect of the magnificent history, culture and climate of Kyoto is the unique local cuisine. Elaborate and seasonal, Kyoto's finest cuisine always offers that perfect culinary journey along the avenues of Japanese food of days gone by. |
- Gion Kaikan, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto City - November 1st (Sat)-10th (Mon), 2008 The geisha and maiko (apprentice geisha) of Gion Higashi Kabuki show will put on a performance well worthy of its fame. As one of the most famous festivals during autumn in Kyoto, its distinctive programs, in which novelty harmonizes with tradition, will always fascinate visitors. |
- Jingo-ji Temple, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture - 5pm-8pm (5pm-9pm on Friday and Saturday), October 31st (Fri)-November 30th (Sun), 2008 Takao, Kyoto, offers one of the most famous autumn foliage scenes in Japan. Green leaf illuminations have been held here in recent years, and this year for the first time red leaves will also be illuminated. The picturesque valley view, glimmering stream and autumn leaves are must-see attractions.  http://www.kyo-takao.com/ (Japanese version only) |
- Kuwayama Jinja Shrine, Kameoka City, Kyoto Prefecture - October 23rd (Thur)-25th (Sat), 2008 Celebrated for over 200 years, the Kameoka Matsuri is an annual event held to honor the Kuwayama Shrine. The festival originated from the tradition of praying for protection against the floods of the Oi River. In this event, 11 floats beautifully decorated with gorgeous ornaments, traditional fabrics from Kyoto Nishijin, and antique dyed fabrics imported from China, Korea, India and Britain will parade throughout the city. http://www.kyoto-kameoka-kankou.jp/k-maturi/ (Japanese version only) |
- Kyoto-gosho - Heian Jingu Shrine, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture - October 22nd (Wed), 2008 The Jidai Matsuri is one of the three major festivals of Kyoto during the year. Performers donning period costume from the Edo, Azuchi-Momoyama, Yoshino, Muromachi, Kamakura and Enryaku periods respectively, parade around town in a procession led by Ishin-kinno-tairetsu (a drum and fife corps). The 2 km long parade consists of 2,000 performers and includes 70 horses, 2 bulls, horse and ox carriages; taking 90 minutes to pass. http://www.kyoto.travel/events/jidaimatsuri_festival_1.html |
- In the valley of Hozukyo; from Sagano in Kyoto City to Kameoka City, Kyoto Prefecture - March 1st (Sat)-December 29th (Mon), 2008 The Sagano Sightseeing Tram operation, not in service during the mid-winter (December 30th-February 28th), restarts operations as the days become longer and spring is just around the corner. This 7.3km, former Sanin-Honsen line between Saga and Kameoka enables passengers to enjoy the beautiful Hozukyo Valley with its 8 tunnels and ever changing views. http://www.sagano-kanko.co.jp/eng/index.htm
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