A look across the valley of Kyoto

In 794, Emperor Kammu proclaimed this valley Heian-kyo, the capital of peace, which turned out to be rather ironic, but lots of things do. It was the capital for over 1100 years, as the Imperial family was there, but for most of that time it was the capital in name only.

Some info by request from a reader: There are about 1.5 million residents of Kyoto city, and about 40 million visitors per year, so yes, tourism is an important part of the economy.

Most of those visitors are from other parts of Japan, so if you come in spring, summer or autumn, and ask a stranger for directions, there is a good chance that person is from out of town and can't help you. Perhaps that is why Kyoto-ites have something of a standoffish image with Japanese elsewhere.

About 10% of those 1.5 million people are college and university students, as Kyoto is known as a college town.

Kyoto leads the nation in officially designated National Treasures (22% are in Kyoto), Important Cultural Properties (16%) and Living National Treasures (artists with specially-recognized skills, 25%)