What’s up guys and welcome back to pekopeko. To day we have treat in store for anyone who loves old Japan and there’s no better place to start than Kyoto. Did you know that Kyoto was the capital of Japan for over 1000 years from 794 to 1868?
Most people who visit Kyoto only see the beauty of Kyoto without first trying to understand its rich and wonderful history. But not pekpeko fans, they’re hungry for knowledge and enthusiastic about a deep cultural understanding of Japan and its history.
So let’s dive in!
Why did Kyoto become the capital?
Toward the end of the Nara era (when Nara was capital from 710 to 784) the concentrated power of Edo (Tokyo) and the aristocratic political system of Japan was no longer working to keep the Japanese in line. They needed a new system. One that had layers of support for the ruling class, rulers that had actually seen battle and could really defend their position as head of the village, town or city. Not some spoiled rich guy who ordered the entire Japanese army from their ivory tower.
At the same time the emperor Kammu was was facing mounting pressure from the monasteries of the emerging religion of Buddhism to move his personal residence to away from Nara and to somewhere they had less control like Kyoto and typically the capital of Japan was wherever the emperor lived and Kammu wanted to be as far away as possible from Nara and the old system.
Samurai was born in Kyoto
It was because of the breakdown in the previous government structure that Japan needed an entirely different system of governance. About 100 years after the move to Kyoto that the Shogun (military leaders) would assert their dominance over their villages and towns.
They originally started by earning their position as the tough military dictators of the towns, however the position became hereditary with leaders passing their position onto their oldest sons.
This lead to a softening of the Shogun generals over time making them just as weak and vulnerable as emperors and armies and so the need for the shogun to have their own elite class of protectors came about between 300 and 500 years later.
This elite group of guards are what we have come to know now as the Samurai. They were similar to today’s seal team 6 or delta force.
The first notable Samurai was call Taira Masakado who was born in 903 AD, he rose to power through a weird conflict with his father in-law (who was also his uncle).
Samurai Spots in Kyoto
Nijo Castle
• Explore the historic Ninomaru Palace, known for its “nightingale floors” that chirp when walked upon.
• Discover the beautiful gardens and defensive features that once protected shoguns.
Kyoto Samurai & Ninja Museum:
• Immerse yourself in interactive exhibits, showcasing samurai armor, weapons, and the secrets of the ninja.
• Participate in hands-on experiences to get a feel for the life of a samurai.
Kinkaku-ji (The Golden Pavilion):
• Admire the stunning golden exterior and serene surroundings.
• Learn about the connection between Kinkaku-ji and Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, a shogun from the Ashikaga shogunate.
Higashiyama District:
• Stroll through charming streets lined with traditional wooden houses.
• Visit preserved samurai residences, providing a glimpse into the daily life of these warriors.
Toei Kyoto Studio Park
• Step back in time with a visit to this movie theme park, where historical dramas and samurai films are produced.
• Enjoy live performances, including samurai sword fights and period-piece reenactments.
Sanjusangendo Temple
• Marvel at the 1,001 life-sized statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy.
• Learn about the temple’s connection to archery competitions, where samurai showcased their skills.
Philosopher’s Path
• Take a contemplative walk along the canal-lined path.
• Discover the Honen-in Temple, which has ties to the samurai Hojo Tokiyori.
Ryoan-ji Temple
• Experience the Zen rock garden and serene surroundings.
• Uncover the historical context of the temple and its connection to samurai culture.
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
• Wander through the enchanting bamboo forest.
• Visit the Iwatayama Monkey Park, where the Arashiyama samurai once trained.
Samurai culture and it’s affect on modern day
Feudal Intrigue and Power Struggles
Many anime and manga draw inspiration from Kyoto’s samurai culture, portraying feudal settings filled with political intrigue, power struggles, and clashes between rival clans. The themes of honor, loyalty, and betrayal are often explored within these narratives
Samurai Redemption Journeys
Kyoto’s samurai history often influences stories of redemption, where a fallen or disgraced samurai seeks to regain honor and purpose. These narratives delve into the complexities of personal growth, morality, and the pursuit of justice within the context of samurai values
Spiritual and Mystical Elements
Kyoto, with its rich cultural and spiritual heritage, contributes to anime and manga themes infused with supernatural or mystical elements. Samurai protagonists may encounter spirits, mythical creatures, or mystical powers, blending historical realism with fantastical elements.
Cultural Traditions and Festivals
Anime and manga frequently showcase Kyoto’s cultural traditions, including festivals, rituals, and ceremonies. These stories celebrate the beauty of Kyoto’s historical landmarks and cultural practices, providing a vivid backdrop for character development and plot progression
Samurai and Modern times
Kyoto’s juxtaposition of historical charm and modernity inspires anime and manga exploring how samurai values and traditions adapt to contemporary settings. Characters may grapple with the clash between traditional samurai ideals and the challenges of the modern world, offering unique perspectives on cultural evolution.
Conclusion
The unique charm of Kyoto coupled with is rich history as the birthplace of the Samurai an Bushido (武士道, “the way of the warrior”) make the ideal place to visit for any Japanese culture otaku.
If you’re planning a trip to Kyoto anytime soon be sure to visit these hotspots and feel a deeper understanding of how the Samurai, the Shogun and Kyoto as a capital came to be.
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