Some of you already know that Kyoto is a very special city for us. Along with the incredible shrines, temples and gardens, there are many other things we love about Kyoto. Just walking the streets reveals many beautiful things such as artful store windows, Paris-worthy pastry shops, and the small courtyards of individual houses.

The Kyoto railway station is among the best public spaces we have ever seen. Its daring architecture includes the soaring roof over the main concourse and the eleven-story outdoor seating area to the rear where people gather to listen to music, eat lunch or just talk.