Kyoto tower

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. [source: momonga.org]