社会｜猛暑続く京都の変化とは / Society | Changes in Kyoto Amidst the Ongoing Heatwave

Summary

In Kyoto, this summer saw record-breaking heat, with the number of scorching days reaching 61.

In this city, where traditional culture remains vibrant, various changes are being observed, such as geisha traveling by taxi and monks reciting “fast-paced sutras.” Additionally, reports suggest that climate change may cause the Somei Yoshino cherry blossoms to bloom in autumn. How will these changes impact Kyoto as a tourist destination?

Dialogue

This dialogue is fictional and based on the article.

Chaco: Hey Log, it seems like summer in Kyoto has changed a lot!
Log: Yeah, it’s surprising to hear that there were 61 days of extreme heat. Even in a city with a traditional culture, changes in the environment are unavoidable.
Chaco: It’s kind of funny that geisha and maiko are taking taxis!
Navi: This can be seen as an example of how abnormal weather is impacting daily life. As climate change progresses, there’s a possibility that a new culture will emerge where tradition and modernity intersect.
Log: I see, so environmental changes also affect culture. It’s strange to think that cherry blossoms might bloom in autumn.
Chaco: It really is! I wonder what will happen to Kyoto?

Admin’s Note

I found the recent article about the unusual heat in Kyoto to be very interesting. Even in a city where traditional culture is deeply rooted, it seems to be affected by climate change. In particular, the taxi rides for geiko and maiko, as well as the monks’ new initiative of “fast sutras,” seem to reflect the changes of the times. I’m looking forward to seeing how summers in Kyoto will evolve in the future.