Mapping Kyoto Streets

Omiya-dori (2012x13)

: 24, 2012

Omiya-dori runs north-to-south for 10km through the center of Kyoto. The street got its name because it runs to the east of the Heian imperial palace, or omiya. Omiya-dori has long thrived as Kyoto's main street. Along this thoroughfare are some of Kyoto's most famous temples, including Toji, Nishi Hongan-ji, and Daitoku-ji, as well as many shops selling items of worship for the temples' followers and numerous workshops where artisans pursue their crafts with quiet passion. In this episode, we take a closer look at some of the people who make Omiya-dori part of the lifeblood of Kyoto, including the 1,200-year-old Kobo Market, the tasty confections that add a dash of sweetness to life, and the talented weavers of brightly colored Nishijin-ori fabric.