Kyoto: A Chronicle of Historical Events

794 AD: Establishment of Heian-kyō

Kyoto, originally known as Heian-kyō, was established as the new imperial capital by Emperor Kammu.

1192 AD: Kamakura Shogunate and Decline of Imperial Power

Despite the establishment of Kamakura Shogunate, Kyoto remained the capital but its status progressively declined with the rise of the samurai class.

1336 AD: Ashikaga Shogunate and the Golden Age of Kyoto

The Ashikaga Shogunate was established, marking the beginning of the Muromachi period. During this period, Kyoto enjoyed a cultural boom and reached a golden age with significant development in arts and culture.

1467 AD: Onset of Onin War

The Onin War damaged much of Kyoto, leading to a period of social and political unrest that lasted for a century.

1573 AD: End of the Ashikaga Shogunate

Oda Nobunaga defeated the last Ashikaga shogun leading to the end of the Ashikaga Shogunate.

1603 AD: Edo Period and Shift of Capital

Tokugawa Ieyasu established the Tokugawa Shogunate in Edo (now Tokyo), moving the political center away from Kyoto. However, the imperial court stayed in Kyoto.

1868 AD: Meiji Restoration

During Meiji Restoration, the emperor's power was restored and the capital and emperor moved to Tokyo. Kyoto remained the cultural and historical heart of Japan.

World War II

Although Kyoto was spared the atomic bombings, it wasn't completely unscathed from World War II.

Modern Times: Kyoto as a Cultural Center

Today, Kyoto is renowned for its historic temples, traditional tea houses, and geisha culture. Its historical significance and cultural heritage have made it a top destination for travelers worldwide.