The former main building, on the Kyoto Prefectural Office's premises, is located on the beautiful, zelkova tree-lined Kamanza Street.

This former government office building was the fifth site in Japan to be designated an Important Cultural Property. It still appears the way it did when it was first built and is one of Japan's oldest structures. A two-story, neo-renaissance-style structure built in 1904, the building proudly displays its superior design. In spring and fall, it is open to the general public, while the courtyard's weeping cherry trees are ideal for cherry blossom viewing.

In addition to ancient temples and houses, the surrounding area offers a variety of museums and archives with a plethora of information on the area's old tea houses and textiles. On the east side, there is also the Kyoto Imperial Palace and the Garden, while on the west side is the Nishijin District where you'll find old-style merchant houses and textiles.