Philosopher's Path 哲学の道 #3

When Kyōto was designated as Japan's capital in the 700s, one of the downsides of the location was its topography and weather. During the summer months, ocean humidity traveled from the south backs up into the Kyōto valley, which is surrounded by mountains on the west, north, and east, trapping the stifling air. To mitigate the high temperature and humidity during the summer season, a system of canals called 'yari-mizu' or "fashioned streams" were constructed to bring water closer to dwelling in order to provide irrigation and natural cooling.