Yamashiro Province

Yamashiro Province occupied the southern part of present-day Kyoto Prefecture, covering plains along rivers such as the Katsura and the Kamo. The landscape included flat agricultural areas surrounded by forested hills to the north and east.

The province was established in the 7th century and remained an administrative unit for centuries until the provincial system dissolved in the 19th century. In 794, the territory became the center of imperial power when the capital Heian-kyo was founded within its boundaries.

The name Yamashiro shifted from characters meaning 'mountain era' to those meaning 'mountain castle' when the imperial court arrived. This change reflected the new political weight the territory gained as home to the ruling class.

The former provincial territory corresponds largely to the southern districts of Kyoto Prefecture today, including the city of Kyoto itself. Travelers exploring the region can still trace the old administrative divisions such as Otokuni, Kadono, and Otagi in place names and local geography.

The twin Kamo shrines, Kamigamo and Shimogamo, stood within the provincial borders and served as religious centers for the imperial court. Both sanctuaries played key roles in ceremonies and festivals that marked the court calendar throughout the year.