Today, I write about “Revival of Kyoto.”
From 794 to 1870, Kyoto was a capital of Japan.
1864, A fire which had started at the time of the Kinmon incident rapidly spread all around Kyoto.
Kyoto was destroyed by fire.
1867, the samurai’s time was over.
1870, the capital of Japan was transferred to Tokyo.
People who live in Kyoto strongly objected.
There were even those who plan a rebellion.
However, the capital of Japan became Tokyo.
The population of Kyoto decreased to two thirds.
1867, Yamamoto Kakuma (feudal retainer of the Aizu clan) was caught as the anti-government troops.
He wrote the petition about future Japan in the prison.
1869, He was pardoned after Boshin war.
Subsequently, he was served as a member of the prefectural assembly of Kyoto.
(He is Niijima Yae’s elder brother. )
He planned “International Exhibitions” in order to revive Kyoto.
1871, the “international exposition” was held in Kyoto.
There was a guide of imperfect English, however, it was kind.
There were many security guard for a foreigner.
They cannot speak English.
It was written to guard’s uniform as “Guard.”
Foreigners were accorded a hearty welcome.
Kimono, ceramic, armor, lacquer ware, and others were showed.
The international exposition was successful.
The exhibition was held nearly every year until 1928.
After that, many foreign tourists came to visit Kyoto.
Thereby, traditional industry of Kyoto was revitalized.
Water is indispensable for the beautiful scenery of Kyoto.
Those days, the physical distribution of Kyoto had only the overland route.
“Lake Biwako” is near Kyoto.
1883, there was a plan to build a canal from Lake Biwa to Kyoto.
Tanabe Sakuro was the young civil engineer who just graduated from the university.
Although he was young, he knew the newest civil engineering technology.
This canal plan was left to him.
It was difficult work.
There was solid rock and tunneling did not progress.
Large amount water flowed in into the tunnel.
17 workers died.
1890, The canal was completed.
Thereby, it became possible to transport large quantities of goods , water was used for power generation, water made Kyoto beautiful,
and Kyoto revived.
Now, fifty million sightseers visit Kyoto every year.
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