Geisha, maiko dance on eve of Kyoto's Kamogawa Odori

Master chefs form culinary group to spread Japanese cuisine

KYOTO--The secrets and techniques of master Japanese chefs have been passed down to apprentice chefs for ages, leaving others to experiment in the kitchen to try to duplicate the sublime tastes and appearances of Japan's finest.

Modern silk string artisan keeps Japanese court music alive

KYOTO--Yellow silk strings are strung taught across the room, creating the illusion of a three-dimensional musical score. You can almost hear a tinkling melody emanating from them.

Kyoto to open its kitchens to foreign students of Japanese cuisine

KYOTO--Chefs from abroad looking to master the art of Kyoto cuisine will soon be able to get firsthand experience in Japan's ancient capital, renowned for its abundance of Japanese foods and local specialties.

Kyoto police use manga to tell youngsters about cybercrime

KYOTO--Alarmed at how many young people are falling prey to cybercrimes, Kyoto prefectural police and a university in the city are offering advice through a medium they think youngsters will understand: manga cartoons.

PHOTO: Kyoto blossom ceremony shows Japan at its most glorious

KYOTO--Some of Japan's most celebrated traditions came together Feb. 25 as geisha served tea and mingled with visitors at a Kyoto shrine in an annual ceremony that expresses joy at the approach of spring.