Kyoto
General Information
Compared to high-tech, modern Tokyo, Kyoto may seem only a small city, but this is undoubtedly made up for by its vast cultural heritage. Kyoto was established under the name Heian kyo in 794. It remained to be the Imperial resident capital for over a thousand years and is still the center of Japanese culture. Many Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples were founded in and around Kyoto under the patronage of the Emperors and Shoguns (warrior elite leaders), and have remained in excellent condition. Each building accurately reflects the culture of the historical period in which it was built. Kyoto is often referred to as a giant museum of Japanese history.
Over the centuries, Kyoto was destroyed by many wars and fires, but due to its historic value, the city was dropped from the list of target cities for the atomic bomb and spared from air raids during World War II. Numerous temples, shrines and other historically priceless structures survive in the city today.
The city allows for a way to discover another side of Japanese culture. This may not yet be apparent from an arrival at JR Kyoto station, but a walk through the grid-like city center will reveal many beautiful, more traditional Japanese buildings. A trip to one of the many world heritage sites in Kyoto will teach any visitor why Kyoto is deemed Japan's most beautiful city.
Images
Program
The progam below is still preliminary. The final program can found in the travelguide which will be handed out to the participants on the 11th of Februari at the meeting with BCE.
Tuesday, March 8th
Imperial park and East-Gion
We will spend our first day in the former imperial capital of Japan exploring some of its many cultural highlights. After visiting the Imperial Park, which happens to be situated next to our hotel, we will continue to East Kyoto and East Gion. This district is best known as the geisha quarters. If you are lucky, you might even see some! It is the most traditional and famous part of Kyoto and it is therefore a must-see for any traveler.
Wednesday, march 9th
Excursion to Omron
Today, the participants will spend the whole day visiting Omron. Omron is a Japanese electronics company which is active in a wide variety of business fields from, for instance, Industrial Automation to healthcare.
Thursday, March 10th
Technical Excursion
Not yet confirmed.Nijo Castle & North Kyoto
Besides for its buildings, the Nijo Castle is also worth a visit for the gardens. After visiting Nijo Castle we will continue to North Kyoto, where we will visit other highlights like the Kinkaku-ji (the golden pavillon).
