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Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan, has a rich and intricate history that has shaped it into the city it is today. Founded in 794 AD as Heian-kyō, meaning “Capital of Peace and Tranquility,” it was established by Emperor Kanmu as Japan’s new capital, intended to consolidate imperial power and reduce the influence of powerful Buddhist temples in Nara, the previous capital. The city’s strategic location in the Yamashiro Basin, surrounded by mountains on three sides, provided natural defenses and a favorable climate, contributing to its selection as the capital.
Kyoto was meticulously planned following Chinese geomantic principles, reflecting the Tang dynasty’s capital, Chang’an. The city was laid out in a grid pattern, with the Imperial Palace at its center, symbolizing the axis of the cosmos. This design facilitated not only administrative efficiency but also reflected the hierarchical nature of the Heian society, where proximity to the palace denoted status and influence.
During the Heian period (794-1185), Kyoto flourished as a center of culture, politics, and religion. The aristocracy patronized the arts, leading to the development of distinct Japanese cultural practices in literature, poetry, and visual arts. The Tale of Genji, written by Murasaki Shikibu in the early 11th century, is a testament to the sophisticated court life of the period. Additionally, the city became a hub for Buddhist teachings and practices, with numerous temples and gardens constructed, many of which remain today as UNESCO World Heritage sites.
The subsequent centuries saw Kyoto enduring political turbulence, including the Genpei War (1180-1185) and the Onin War (1467-1477), which led to extensive destruction. Despite this, the resilient city repeatedly rebuilt itself. The Muromachi period (1336-1573) marked a cultural renaissance, with the Ashikaga shoguns promoting the arts, particularly the tea ceremony, Noh theater, and ink painting. The iconic Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) were constructed during this era, exemplifying the era’s aesthetic ideals.
Kyoto’s significance persisted into the Edo period (1603-1868), even though political power shifted to Edo (Tokyo). The city remained a spiritual and cultural heartland, hosting the imperial court and numerous religious institutions. The Tokugawa shogunate maintained Kyoto’s status by supporting its temples, shrines, and traditional industries, such as kimono weaving and ceramics.
The Meiji Restoration of 1868 brought dramatic changes as the capital moved to Tokyo. Kyoto, however, adapted by modernizing while preserving its historical and cultural heritage. It embraced industrialization, with new infrastructure and educational institutions, yet remained a bastion of traditional Japanese culture.
Today, Kyoto stands as a vibrant blend of ancient traditions and modern innovation. Its historical sites, such as the Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kiyomizu-dera, and the Kyoto Imperial Palace, attract millions of visitors annually. The city’s preservation efforts ensure that its rich heritage continues to be celebrated, while its universities and research centers contribute to contemporary advancements.
Kyoto’s formation is a tale of resilience, cultural flourishing, and adaptability. From its origins as a carefully planned capital to its present status as a cultural jewel, Kyoto embodies the enduring spirit of Japan.
1. Why was Kyoto chosen as the new capital in 794 AD?A. To consolidate imperial power and reduce the influence of Buddhist temples in Nara
B. Because of its coastal location
C. Due to its proximity to trade routes
D. To escape frequent natural disasters
2.What does Heian-kyō mean?
A. City of Gold
B. Capital of Peace and Tranquility
C. Gateway to the East
D. Mountain City
3.What was the primary inspiration for Kyoto’s city layout?
A. Nara
B. Edo
C. Chang’an
D. Kyoto’s natural geography
4.Which literary work is associated with Kyoto’s Heian period culture?
A. The Tale of Heike
B. The Pillow Book
C. The Tale of Genji
D. The Kojiki
5.Which event led to extensive destruction in Kyoto during the 15th century?
A. Genpei War
B. Onin War
C. Meiji Restoration
D. Sengoku Period
6.During which period did Kyoto experience a cultural renaissance under the Ashikaga shoguns?
A. Nara Period
B. Heian Period
C. Muromachi Period
D. Edo Period
7.Which famous temples were constructed during the Muromachi period?
A. Fushimi Inari Shrine and Kiyomizu-dera
B. Kinkaku-ji and Ginkaku-ji
C. To-ji and Ryoan-ji
D. Ninna-ji and Tenryu-ji
8.What significant change occurred during the Meiji Restoration regarding Kyoto?
A. Kyoto became the political capital of Japan
B. The capital moved to Tokyo
C. Kyoto was completely destroyed
D. Kyoto remained isolated from modernization
9.How did Kyoto adapt during the Meiji Restoration?
A. It resisted industrialization
B. It embraced industrialization and modern infrastructure
C. It isolated itself from other cities
D. It became the sole educational hub of Japan
10.Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a contemporary attraction in Kyoto?
A. Fushimi Inari Shrine
B. Kiyomizu-dera
C. Tokyo Tower
D. Kyoto Imperial Palace
答え
A
B
C
C
B
C
B
B
B
C