Sagano, long referred to as Saga, is located east of Arashiyama -- one of Japan's most scenic spots. Its lush nature and seasonal beauty enchanted the court nobility who made it their retreat a millennium ago. It is still regarded as a special destination. Daikaku-ji was once the villa of Emperor Saga. Many other temples and shrines are the settings for literary and historical tales. Discover the relaxing, peaceful qualities of Sagano through the people dedicated to conserving its picturesque scenery.

Many modern buildings for use by ordinary citizens, such as homes, schools, and restaurants, sprang up around Kyoto in the early 1900's. Kyotoites desired buildings that blended in with the natural environment and suited the local lifestyle. So they erected impressive structures merging the latest Western technology and design with Japanese flair. Discover Kyoto's modern architecture through the citizens who aimed to revitalize the city through their quest for buildings befitting the new age.

It may come as a surprise that Kyoto -- the capital of Japanese cuisine -- leads the country in the consumption of Western culture's staple food. Bread entered through Yokohama and Kobe during modernization in the mid-1800's and soon took root in Kyoto, leading to a flourishing bakery culture centered around snack buns and sandwiches, as practical, novelty-loving Kyotoites took to the convenience and modernity of baked goods. Discover Kyoto's love of the new through its embrace of bread.