Few cities in Japan have a history as closely tied to the imperial court as Kyoto. Founded as Heian-kyō in 794, it served as the imperial capital for more than a millennium and still preserves a street grid rooted in that plan. The city occupies the Kyoto Basin, with the Kamo River running through its eastern districts and the Higashiyama hills rising beyond. Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines remain integral to daily life; Kiyomizu-dera, Kinkaku-ji and the gardens of Ginkaku-ji are among its best-known sites. Gion is associated with Kyoto’s geiko and maiko traditions, while Nishiki Market reflects the city’s food culture. Browse additional webcams from the surrounding area to extend your view of Kyoto and the Kansai region.
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