Kyoto was the capital of Japan and residence of the emperor from 794 to 1868. However, the political and military center was often located in Eastern Japan from the Kamakura period on until the capital completely moved to Tokyo in 1868.

Kyoto was built according to the Chinese capital of the Sui dynasty with a rectangular street system that still can be found today in the center of the city. The city used to be the religious and cultural center of Japan for many centuries, and is, therefore, still today of tremendous historical value, and possibly Japan's most popular touristic attraction. A huge number of important temples, shrines, and other buildings are located in Kyoto. The city has been destroyed countless times by fires and wars over the centuries

Source: Japan-Guide.com