Many industries were born here while Kyoto flourished as center of politics, economy, and culture of Japan: these industries then developed through the times, building upon the foundation of tradition.
Industries such as textiles(Nishijin-ori), dyeing(Kyoyuzen), ceramics(Kyoyaki, Kiyomizuyaki), sake brewing(Fushimi), fans(Kyosensu), doll(Kyoningyo) and lacqerware(Kyoshikki) were supported by the demand and patronage of the Imperial Court, temples, and rules of the times. Through close association with various forms of culture, such as the tea ceremony, performing arts, festivals, and the vitality of townspeople, these industries continued to grow as they were passed down the generations.
In the Meiji era, introduction of modern tecnology and machinery from the West brought about industrialization. The excavation of a canal between Lake Biwa and Kyoto, and the construction of a power plant triggered the development of various industries, including the textile, metal, electric, and precision machinery indutries. The textile industry, in perticular, has led regional economy while maintaining an organic relationship with various other industries and the culture rooted in the area.
After World War ‡U, the machinery and metalworking-related manufacturing industries began developing rapidly, giving rise to internationally competitive high-tech industry in the fields of electronics and precision machinery. Today, they are representative industries of Kyoto, New materials and biotechnology-related industries incorporating new science and technology are also attracting attension.
In 1992, regarding the gross production of Kyoto City, the output of the manufacturing industry accouted for 27.2% of the total output, the third highest proportion among the major cities in Japan. This shows that manufacturing plays a leading role in Kyoto.
3.Commerce and Service Industry
In terms of the number of establishments and employees, the tertiary industry accounts for over 70% of the total industry, indicating that the service industry is growing in Kyoto as well. Backed by the Muromachi textile wholesale district, Japan's largest distributor of kimono goods, the textile wholesale business remains the major representative trade. The service industry reflects the city's character as an international caltural sightseeing and educational city.