Kyoto, Japan, is a historic city known for its well-preserved temples, traditional wooden houses, and beautiful gardens. It served as the capital of Japan for over a thousand years, from 794 to 1868. Notable sites include the Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and the Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine, famous for its thousands of red torii gates. The city is also recognized for its cultural heritage, including geisha traditions and tea ceremonies. Kyoto hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, such as the Gion Matsuri, which showcases the city's rich history and vibrant community spirit.