Japan: Kyoto

The spiritual heart of Japan, Kyoto offers a glimpse of Japanese life as it used to be, primarily because it was never bombed during World War II.

Tiny streets with wooden homes, impressive temples, and a dedication to ancient Japanese traditions make Kyoto one of Japan’s most visited cities.

We check into a ryokan, or Japanese inn, and talk with one of Japan’s best-known designers of kimonos to learn why his craft is still thriving. Rudy invites viewers to join him at a tea ceremony and learns that the Japanese attention to detail even extends to incense that locals use for a variety of purposes. Experience the tranquility of not only a rock garden but also a moss garden, retreats that help lend this city in a valley its Zen-like peacefulness.