Fukuhara-kyō, Former capital in Muko district, Japan
Fukuhara-kyō was a governmental city spread across flat terrain in present-day Hyogo district, with administrative buildings and residences for court officials distributed throughout the area. The layout followed a grid pattern typical of Japanese imperial cities.
Military leader Taira no Kiyomori relocated the imperial court here in 1180, making it the nation's capital during a period of major conflict. Political pressures forced the court to move back within months.
The imperial palace complex incorporated traditional Japanese architecture with separate quarters for Emperor Antoku and the retired emperors Takakura and Go-Shirakawa.
The location near a harbor made maritime trade connections to other regions possible. Visitors can still see traces of ancient road systems today.
The imperial capital maintained its status for exactly six months before returning to Heian-kyo due to political pressures and regional weather conditions.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
