The traditional center of art and culture Map of the Kinki region Kyoto was the capital of Japan for more than 1000 years, from 794 AD, when the capital was relocated from Nara, to 1868 when the capital again relocated (this time to Tokyo) following the Meiji Restoration. For over ten centuries, Japanese culture centered on and evolved around the reigning Kyoto based Emperors with magnificent results. 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.

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Kyoto Higashiyama Hanatouro 2010 - Higashiyama area in Kyoto City, Kyoto - March 13th (Sat)-22nd (Mon & holiday), 2010 Hanatouro (Lantern and Flower Lane) is an annual event which produces a path connecting Shoren-in Temple in the north to Kiyomizu-dera Temple in the south, with decorations of lanterns and flowers. Various elegant events, such as the special night-time illumination of neighboring temples and shrines, and the "Ikebana (flower arrangement) Promenade," will take place to showcase Kyoto in early spring. http://www.hanatouro.jp/e/higashiyama/

Commencement of Sagano Sightseeing Tram journeys - Hozukyo Valley (along the Hozu River); from Sagano in Kyoto City to Kameoka City, Kyoto Prefecture - March 1st (Mon)-December 29th (Wed), 2010  *No service on Wednesday, except during the designated season The Sagano Sightseeing Tram, not in service during midwinter (December 30th to February 28th), restarts operations as the days become longer and spring is just around the corner. This 7.3km-long, former Sanin-Honsen Line between Saga and Kameoka enables passengers to enjoy the beautiful Hozukyo Valley, with its eight tunnels and constantly changing views. http://www.sagano-kanko.co.jp/eng/index.htm

Hatsuuma Daikondaki Hoyo - Sanzen-in Temple, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture - February 11th (Thur & holiday)-15th (Mon), 2010 Sanzen-in Temple takes on a calm and glorious look when the colder weather sets in. During this event, after the prayer service is held in Goma-do hall, the Japanese daikon radishes harvested in Ohara are cooked and served to visitors free of charge. http://www.sanzenin.or.jp/ (Japanese version only)

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