Kyoto served as Japan's capital and the emperor's residence from 794 until 1868, preserving a millennium of Japanese history and culture within its ancient streets and temples. Unlike many Japanese cities that were heavily bombed during World War II, Kyoto was largely spared, leaving its architectural heritage intact. The city is home to over 1,600 Buddhist temples, 400 Shinto shrines, numerous palaces, gardens, and traditional wooden houses. Beyond its historical significance, Kyoto remains a living cultural center where traditional arts like tea ceremony, ikebana (flower arrangement), and geisha performances continue to thrive alongside modern Japanese innovation.