Kirikane is the delicate process of applying gold and metallic foil onto Buddhist statues or special articles using 2 brushes. One artisan has taken on the mantle of her late mother, who was designated a Living National Treasure in Kirikane.

In the late 1800's Kyoto architects and builders were the first to embrace change as Japan modernized. They incorporated the unusual Western designs into their buildings, changing the cityscape with its many temples and shrines. The great achievements of these pioneers remain today, used as public institutions, places of learning, worship and business. Conspicuous yet congruous, they represent the dawn of a new era. Discover the modern architecture in the ancient capital, whose colors never fade.