In 794, the capital of Japan was transferred from Nara to The Imperial City of Heiankyo, the former name of the city of Kyoto. Two huge guardian temples were built on the east and the west sides of the main entrance to the new Imperial City. Unfortunately, the temple on the west side no longer exists, but To-ji, which literally means "East Temple", has survived to the present day. I visited during the fall night illuminations.

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