Heian-kyō: Capital Of Peace and Tranquility
Heian - Kyo : The City of Peace and Tranquility Kyoto : It is the third largest city in Japan, and also one of the oldest. It was first founded as Heian in 794, and prospered during the court's heyday, that is, from 794 to 1185AD. Kyoto is considered as the heart of Japan, being home to several historical and cultural sites. Geography Heian was chosen for its easy access to rivers and roads. It was a strategic decision as it was surrounded by mountains for defense, consisted to plenty of rivers for convenience and defense and a magnificent topography. It became the main center for Buddhism, where temples were constructed to guard the northeast direction of the capital. Within this outer enclosure a grid system of streets divided the city into more than 1,200 blocks of uniform size. The main entrance to the south was the great Rashomon (Rajomon) gate, which opened on the imposing Suzaku Avenue that bisec...