Mapping Kyoto Streets S2012E01 - Sanjo-dori

Sanjo-dori, 13 kilometers long from east to west, is an interesting, multifaceted street. The modern architecture along Sanjo-dori symbolizes Japan's Westernization. While much remains from its long, rich history, something new is being added to this exciting district, each day. The shops lining the street produce goods with a modern, artistic twist using traditional methods. Here, we see the retro-modern side of Kyotoites, who do like the new, as well as the old.

Midway, the shopping arcade and the historical shrines and temples show us everyday life in Kyoto, the real face of Kyotoites. We also walk through Uzumasa, Japan's Hollywood, and visit the movie theme park, Toei Uzumasa Eigamura, and its samurai and period-film sets. A streetcar runs to Arashiyama in the west, where Togetsu Bridge is beautiful in any season. Sanjo-dori has a unique charm that typifies Kyoto.

Presenter
Randall V. Channell (Soei)
Master of Tea