Asia and Australia 2025

Kyoto

Mural at the Kyoto Royal Palace
The palace assumed much of its current form during the Edo period (1603–1868), when it was rebuilt under the patronage of the Tokugawa shogunate. The most significant reconstruction occurred in 1855, following yet another devastating fire. This restoration defined the architectural style we see today: elegant yet restrained wooden structures surrounded by white earthen walls and graceful gates, exemplifying shoin-zukuri and Heian-period design aesthetics. The layout reflects traditional court hierarchy, with ceremonial halls to the south and private residences to the north.

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