Core Kyoto

Over 1,200 years, Kyoto has evolved into a cultural capital, boasting superb crafts, cuisine and architecture. Narrator Gary Tegler reflects on 200 episodes of Core Kyoto and visits artisans at work.

Core Kyoto narrator Gary Tegler gets a close-up look at the Gion Matsuri, which began over 1,000 years ago, as he unravels the mystery of the decorations and meets the foreign volunteers.

The Zen school of Buddhism emphasizes the practice of zazen meditation as the path to enlightenment. The spirit of Zen flows through the gardens, art, cuisine and other aspects of Kyoto culture.

This festival, held by World Heritage Kamigamo and Shimogamo Shrines, ties the community together through the Shinto faith that venerates the deities residing in the mountains, rivers, and forests.