Kyoto Prefectural Office

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Facts & Figures

The two-story, Neo-Renaissance-style Kyoto Prefectural Office (Kyotofucho Kyuhonkan) is located at the end of the beautiful Kamanza Street in Kyoto's Kamigyo Ward, near Kyoto Imperial Palace and Kyoto Gyoen National Garden. Experience the Ultimate Japanese Hospitality at a Kyoto Ryokan.
 Find Your Perfect Ryokan Now > The building covers a total floor area of 6099 square meters and features a unique blend of European and Japanese architectural elements. One of its most impressive features is the large clock tower. In the past, it served as the headquarters of the Kyoto Prefectural Government. Today, it functions as a historical and cultural site, hosting exhibitions and cultural events throughout the year. The central courtyard of the building is open to the public twice a year, in spring and fall. It is an especially beautiful place to visit when the cherry trees on the property are in full bloom (late March to April).

History

The Kyoto Prefectural Office (Kyotofucho Kyuhonkan) was built in 1904 during the Meiji Era (1868 – 1912). Architects Matsumuro Shigemitsu (1873 – 1937) and Masamichi Kuru (1855 – 1914) designed the building, and it was constructed by the renowned carpenter Mikami Kichibei. In 2004, it was designated as an Important Cultural Property by the Japanese government.

Sightseeing spots

Top:

Maeda Coffee - Take a break here and enjoy the elegant interior design of this place within the main building.

Central Courtyard - The place is surrounded by weeping cherry trees, making it the perfect photo spot during sakura season in spring.

Festival & Events in Kyoto (dates can change without notice)

March

Higashiyama Hanatouro Festival (Early - Mid March)
The illumination of local temples and roads by thousands of lanterns in the Higashiyama neighbourhood last for 10 days and starts at 6pm until 9:30pm. It is an unforgettable experience.

Spring Open House Event at Kyoto Prefectural Office (End of March - Early April)
People can visit the historical building (offices, meeting rooms), attend tea ceremonies, and at the same time, enjoy the cherry blossom season at the property. The event has no admission fee.

April

Miyako Odori (1st - 31st)
The traditional annual spring dance of the Kyoto district Gion Kobu performed by Geiko and Maiko is a must-see on your Kyoto visit. Don't miss the most popular dances the Miyako Odori "Cherry Blossom Dances" or "Dances of the Old Capital" at the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theater (located close to Gion Corner).

May

Aoi Matsuri (15th)
The highlight of this festival is a large parade from the Imperial Palace through the Shimogamo Shrine and ends at the Kamigamo Shrine (Kamigamo-jinja). More than 500 people wearing aristocratic costumes from the Heian Period (794 - 1185). The Aoi Matsuri belongs with the Gion Matsuri and Jidai Matsuri as the three most famous festivals in Kyoto.

July

Gion Matsuri (whole month)
The month of July is full of different events like the Yoiyama - Kyoto's Magical Night (locals in kimonos look at the giant Gion floats the day before the parade) or the famous Yamaboko Junko (float procession on the 17th of July).

October

Jidai Matsuri ("Festival of Ages") (22nd)
People celebrate with a large parade between Imperial Palace to Heian Shrine the anniversary of the foundation of Kyoto. App. 2000 participants wearing historical costumes from different time periods. Enjoy this great festival which lasts around 2 hours.