hchen - History of Kyoto Gosho

Politics in Architecture

History of Kyoto Gosho

The Kyoto Gosho otherwise known as the Kyoto Imperial Palace was first built during the Heian period, 794, and was completed by 804. It was the home of the Imperial family of Japan until they moved to Tokyo during the Meiji Period. This structure, said to be the only major palace constructed entirely of wood, is extremely flammable and has been burnt and rebuilt numerous times. The original structure measured 1266 yards from east to west and 1533 form north to south. It once contained approximately 50 buildings, some were government offices and residences for the Imperial family, but nothing remains of the original structure. The structures seen today are only reconstructions according to the original plans. The current one built in 1855, is an exact production of some buildings of the original Heian Kyoto Gosho, not all.

The main buildings of the Kyoto Gosho include:

Shishinden (Hall of State)

Seiryoden (Private Residence of the Emperor)

Kogosho (Small Imperial Palace)

Ogakumonjo (Study Hall)

Since the Imperial family moved to Tokyo, the Kyoto Gosho has been well maintained and is still used for coronation of emperors.

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