Kyoto encounters - Thomas Rimer

Since its founding in the 7th century, Kyoto has continued to attract visitors from far and wide. In ancient times they were drawn by the city's role as the centre of government and cultures, more recently by its reputation as the repository and conservator of Japan's seat of government. Impressions of the city find their way into the writings of some visitors.;The text includes an eclectic assortment of literati sojourner's reactions to Kyoto. The writers are from Japan and abroad, are both male and female, and are writing in both centuries past as well as the 20th century. They include authors ranging from Matsuo Basho to Rudyard Kipling, from Roland Barthes to Tange Kenzo, from Sei Shonagon to Nikos Kazantzakis. Their comments provide an introduction to the city and its environs. Selections from their prose and poetry are complimented by images taken by over 20 local Kyoto photographers. Extensive notes identify scenes and photographers, explain the relationship of texts and images, and introduce the literary sources and their authors.