Colorful Japan is divided into 47 administrative divisions (prefectures), and each of them, except for Hokkaido, is governed by a prefect. They have a rich history and interesting culture, differ from each other in traditions and customs. Numerous tourists are attracted by an original corner filled with sights and called 京都府 (Kyoto).
Prefecture Description
In the center of Honshu Island is a prefecture bisected by the Tamba mountain range. A thousand years ago, the capital of the country was moved here, the residence of the emperor was located here, and skillful hands of creative people were required to equip a prosperous settlement. The most famous architects and artists worked in the main city of the state; famous figures of Japan chose it as their permanent residence. For more than a hundred centuries, until the capital was moved to Tokyo, the city of Kyoto was the center of the country's cultural and political life.
Prefecture comprising 6 counties and 15settlements, stretches for 4.6 thousand km2, and the number of inhabitants exceeds 2.5 million people. The northernmost point of the administrative unit is the Tango Peninsula overlooking the Sea of Japan.
There are four geographic zones on its territory: the Yamashiro Valley, the coastline of the Maizuru Bay, the Tamba mountain range and the Kyoto basin. The prefecture, which is one of the main tourist centers, attracts a huge number of travelers from different parts of our planet, attracted by unique sights, 17 of which are under the protection of UNESCO.
Climate and weather
Because of the mountains preventing cold air from penetrating, the prefecture's climate is warm and humid along the coast. The Tsushima current also influences the weather. In summer, the average temperature is about 30 degrees, and in winter it fluctuates around zero. Tourists need to remember that there are heavy rains from June to September, so the best time to visit is spring or autumn.
Tourist-attracting prefecture
Kyoto provides unlimited opportunities for entertainment for all categories of vacationers. The prefecture is famous for its huge number of cultural and historical monuments, picturesque landscapes and the hospitality of local residents who joyfully meet Europeans. Recently, our compatriots quite often choose Japanese resorts for their holidays, where you can get acquainted with local customs.
Kyoto - the former capital of Japan
Of course, the mosta popular city in the prefecture is Kyoto, which has become a treasure trove of the best achievements of Japanese art, architecture and religion. In this magical corner you can get acquainted with old Japan. There are about two thousand ancient temples and a large number of museums here, which are impossible to see even during a week of rest. Iconic monuments number in the dozens, and Kyoto Prefecture is incredibly proud of them.
Sights, the photos of which convey their amazing beauty, are located in the central part of the city, and each of the ancient temples is a true treasure.
Nijo Castle
One of the most beautiful architectural complexes is located in the heart of the former capital of Japan. Nijo Castle is a real defensive structure, which consists of two rings of fortifications, including a moat filled with water and a powerful wall. There are two attractions on the territory of the fortress - the Ninomaru Palace and the Honmaru Citadel.
Real masterpieces of architectural art, decorated in the classical Japanese style, attract hundreds of thousands of tourists who admire the unique wall paintings of numerous halls, which are strictly forbidden to photograph.
Kyozan-ji Temple
Ten kilometers from the castle complex is the main Buddhist sanctuary, rarely visited by guests of Japan. The majestic Kyozan-ji Temple (Toganosan Kyosan-ji), surrounded by dense forest,evokes a feeling of admiration. The historical relics of the religious complex are in the national museums of Tokyo and Kyoto.
The prefecture takes care of the preservation of the monument erected in the 13th century. The peaceful atmosphere, creating an atmosphere of peace, makes you want to spend the whole day on the territory of the temple.
Memorial in honor of fallen soldiers
The Ryozen-Kannen memorial deserves special attention, created in honor of the soldiers who died in the battles of World War II. It was opened in 1955 in Kyoto. The prefecture, whose list of attractions is not limited to religious monuments, cherishes the memory of the fallen, and memorial services are held here four times a day.
In the center of the composition is a snow-white sculpture of Buddha sitting in the bosom of nature. At its foot, a temple is comfortably located, in which parishioners of any faith pray and light a candle in memory of the feat of the soldiers. A hall dedicated to the Unknown Soldier was also built here.
Sagano Bamboo Grove
Kyoto (prefecture) is also famous for its amazing nature. The bamboo forest, located in the west of the former capital of the country, consists of thousands of green trees that emit pleasant melodic sounds when even the slightest breeze blows. Guests admit that this is one of the most peaceful places in the world, created for relaxation. The national symbol of Kyoto is listed as one of Japan's most beautiful sights.
A visit to the administrative center will give all guests a lot of pleasant experiences. This is a unique placewhere you can fully feel the spirit of the old times and immerse yourself in the world of harmony and happiness.
