Kyoto

KYOTO, JAPAN

Once the capital of Japan and the seat of the Emperor from 794 until 1868, Kyoto is a true masterpiece of religious architecture. Home to some 2,000 atmospheric temples and colorful shrines, and with the omnipresent sight of bright vermillion Torii gates scattered around, this ancient and history-rich city remains the spiritual heart of Japan despite its modern-day city buzz. Although Kyoto was destroyed by many wars and fires over the centuries, its exceptional historic significance prevented foreign powers from inflicting greater destruction during larger-scale wars, resulting in the great preservation we see today of its landmarks. It ranks as one of the country’s ten largest cities with a population of 1.5 million people, which also include the world-famous Geishas that can be seen scurrying to secret liaisons in the Gion district.