When America almost dropped an atomic bomb on Kyoto, Japan 🇯🇵| Geisha Culture, Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Kyoto is the soul of traditional Japan, where ancient history, temples, and living culture come together. 

   

 Just yesterday we arrived from Nagoya, via Shinkansen the bullet train. We checked in to our hotel in Kyoto and immediately start touring the city. In this travel vlog, I explore Kyoto’s iconic landmarks, with a special focus on the Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning wooden stage built without using a single nail. 

 GEISHA CULTURE – WHAT IS IT ACTUALLY? 

1. Who is a Geisha? 

A Geisha is a traditional Japanese artist and entertainer, not what many people mistakenly believe. A Geisha is trained in: 

Classical Japanese dance 

Traditional music (like shamisen) 

Tea ceremony 

Poetry and storytelling 

Polite and graceful conversation

 Proper etiquette and hosting

 In Kyoto, Geisha are called “Geiko.” Their trainees are called “Maiko.” 

 2. Gion District – The Heart of Geisha Culture The Gion District in Kyoto is the birthplace and center of Geisha culture. Even today, you can see: Geiko and Maiko walking to tea houses in the evening Traditional wooden streets Historic tea houses (ochaya) Gion is considered a living cultural museum, where centuries-old traditions still continue. 

3. Maiko vs Geiko (Difference) Maiko (Trainee) Young apprentices (usually 15–20 years old) Bright, colorful kimono Long sleeves Heavy hair ornaments White makeup with red accents Geiko (Fully trained Geisha) Completed years of training Elegant and subtle kimono Light makeup Calm and refined presence Masters of traditional arts 

4. Training to Become a Geisha Becoming a Geisha requires years of disciplined training, including: Daily dance practice Learning musical instruments Tea ceremony mastery Walking and sitting posture Graceful speaking and hosting This training system is extremely strict and is similar to Japan’s old samurai discipline. 

⚔️ WHY KYOTO WAS SAVED DURING WORLD WAR II 

 Kyoto Was Almost Destroyed During World War II, Kyoto was initially included in the list of potential atomic bomb targets, along with Hiroshima and Nagasaki. However, it was removed at the last moment.

 1. Cultural Importance of Kyoto Kyoto was considered the cultural soul of Japan. Destroying Kyoto would have meant: Loss of thousands of ancient temples Destruction of traditional arts Erasing centuries of history This would have been an irreversible loss to world heritage. 

2. Role of Henry L. Stimson The U.S. Secretary of War, Henry L. Stimson, had personally visited Kyoto earlier in life and deeply admired its beauty and cultural value. He strongly insisted that: “Kyoto is a cultural jewel and must not be destroyed.” Because of his repeated objections, Kyoto was removed from the atomic bomb target list. 

3. Low Military Value Kyoto was not a major military or industrial center compared to Hiroshima or Nagasaki, making it a less strategic target. 

4. Psychological Impact Kyoto symbolized Japan’s identity and heritage. Destroying it would have deeply damaged Japanese morale and made post-war reconciliation more difficult. Result Kyoto was officially declared a “spared city.” That is why today we can still see: Kiyomizu-dera Temple Gion streets Bamboo forests Ancient shrines Kyoto’s survival is often described as a historical miracle. 

 🏯 KIYOMIZU-DERA TEMPLE – UNESCO 

World Heritage Site Famous wooden stage built without using nails Offers panoramic views of Kyoto Home to Otowa Waterfall, where visitors drink sacred water for: longevity success love In this video, you’ll see: The historic Kiyomizu-dera Temple and its breathtaking views The famous Otowa Waterfall and its wish-making tradition An easy explanation of Kyoto’s Geisha (Geiko & Maiko) culture Walks through Kyoto’s traditional streets and old town atmosphere Interesting historical facts about Japan’s former capital This vlog is perfect for anyone interested in Japan travel, Japanese culture, history, and heritage temples.