Nishikyō Ward, Administrative ward in western Kyoto, Japan
Nishikyō Ward is a district in western Kyoto that spans varied terrain, from urban areas to mountains rising to 678 meters in elevation. The Katsura River defines its boundaries and flows through residential neighborhoods and natural landscapes.
This district was created in 1976 through an administrative reorganization when it was separated from Ukyō Ward to better manage urban development in western Kyoto. This split helped address growing demands for infrastructure and city planning.
The Katsura Imperial Villa stands here and shows classical Japanese architecture through its buildings, gardens, and traditional tea ceremony spaces. Visitors can see how old building forms and garden design work together.
The district is home to several educational institutions including the International Research Center for Japanese Studies, Kyoto City University of Arts, and Kyoto College of Economics. Visitors should note this is a residential area and some historic sites require careful planning for proper access.
The Saihō-ji temple, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, contains gardens where 120 types of moss grow across the ground in soft green patterns. This moss creates a quiet, almost separate world that feels very different from typical city life.
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