Explore the rich history of Kyoto from its founding in 794 as Heiankyo, capital of Japan’s Heian emperors, through its years as the religious and cultural center of Japanese society, to its modern-day incarnation. Visit the magnificent temples, shrines, palaces, castles, and gardens that bring to life the ancient imperial court and a society of feudal warriors.
Through an examination of the distinctive architectural, artistic, and cultural influences preserved in Kyoto, Robert Mintz and Julie Oakes travel through the centuries to spotlight the elements that give this city its character and vibrancy.
10 to 11:15 a.m. The Capital City: Kyoto as a Center of Imperial Power
The Horyuji Temple, Nara; Imperial Palace; Heian Shrine; Toji Temple.
11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. City of Culture, City of Art: The Creations Synonymous with Kyoto
The Tale of Genji; classical poetry; screens, scrolls, and decorative objects.
12:30 to 1:30 Lunch
Participants provide lunch on their own
1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Kyoto Under the Shoguns’ Control
Phoenix Hall at Uji; Gold and Silver Pavilions; Nijo Castle; Ryoanji Rock Garden.
2:45 to 4 p.m. Blending Old and New: Kyoto in the 21st Century
Geisha districts of Gion and Pontoch; Kiyomizu Temple.
Robert Mintz is chief curator and curator of Asian art at the Walters Art Museum. Julie Oakes is a visiting lecturer within the history department and Asian studies program at University of Maryland, Baltimore County.
Learn more about Japanese culture, listen to clips from Smithsonian Folkways recordings>>
Smithsonian Connections
Learn more about this land of sublime art and rich traditions by taking a journey to Eternal Japan.
Visit the Smithsonian Journeys page to see more
trips to Europe.
