The dignified crests adorning various items from "noren" curtains to temple roofs are a common sight in Kyoto. These symbols of families and organizations originated over 1,000 years ago. Once the privilege of the imperial household and samurai class, they were adopted by merchants and the populace as marks of status and pride. Their refined designs have now caught the attention of people abroad. Discover the crests that are emblematic of old Kyoto families preserving their heritage.

All manner of floral encounters await people around Kyoto. Florists do not just sell flowers but also arrange them on site with designer flair. Ikebana schools collaborate to revive the secret art of wrapping flowers in washi. A future school head seeks new paths by posting his playful arrangements to social media. One artist has created a novel way of arranging flowers directly in the hair. Discover the panache with which modern floral artists and artisans make the utmost of tradition.

Randen weaves its way to popular tourist destinations Arashiyama and Kitano, with Ryoan-ji and other UNESCO World Heritage Sites scattered along the tramlines. Founded in 1912, the streetcar remains a leading mode of transport connecting Kyoto's west with the city center. Meet a photographer who has snapped the trolley cars for decades, and a producer who showed his love for them by making a movie. Discover the affection Kyotoites have for Randen through its passengers and gardening volunteers.