🐦 Through Shogunate Castles and Samurai History: A 12km Course in Kyoto 🐦
Nakagyo Ward in Kyoto City is a historical center where the ancient grid streets of Heian-kyo meet the turbulent history of the late Edo period. This 12km GPS art course invites you to sketch a magnificent bird, exploring the World Heritage-listed Nijo Castle—which witnessed the rise and fall of the Tokugawa Shogunate—and the Mibu district, famous for its samurai legacy.
The journey begins near Nijojo-mae Station, heading south along Horikawa-dori toward the bustling Shijō-Ōmiya Station. Moving west, you will dive into the history of the Shinsengumi samurai police force by visiting Mibu Temple and Yagi’s Residence, their original headquarters. Continuing west through the flat Kyoto basin, the route reaches Nishiōji-Sanjō Station where local tramlines run.
From the Nishioji-Oike intersection, the trail turns east, guiding you directly into the expansive grounds of Nijō Castle. After wandering through the majestic gardens and viewing the National Treasure Ninomaru Palace, the route finishes at the modern Nijo Station.
This flat 12km loop offers an incredible journey spanning centuries of samurai history. When the digital silhouette is complete on your map, you will feel a profound connection to Japan’s timeless ancient capital.
RESTAURANTS
DETAIL (EXTERNAL LINK)
A PIONEER IN GPS ART.
1st work was authorized by Guinness World Records as “the Largest GPS Drawing”.
He is the only Japanese person to be featured in a Google documentary as an innovator. He is fascinated by the idea of drawing with GPS and has published more than 2,500 works.
