Kyoto Cultural & Historical Guide: Complete Guide
Explore museums, historical sites, cultural experiences, and heritage attractions. Discover the best cultural experiences in Kyoto.
Welcome to the ultimate cultural guide for Kyoto! Explore museums, historical sites, cultural experiences, and heritage attractions. This comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best cultural experiences that Kyoto has to offer, from popular hotspots to hidden local favorites. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, you'll find insider tips, detailed recommendations, and everything you need to make the most of your cultural adventure in Kyoto. Our carefully curated selection ensures you won't miss any of the must-see spots while also discovering unique experiences that most tourists overlook.
Key Takeaways
- Kyoto offers over 79 exceptional cultural experiences
- Best time to visit varies by activity - check individual listings for optimal timing
- Many experiences require advance booking, especially during peak season
- Local guides and experts provide invaluable insights and access
- Prices range from budget-friendly to premium, with options for every preference
Museums & Art Galleries
World-class museums, art galleries, and cultural institutions showcasing history, art, and heritage.
Kyoto National Museum
Immerse yourself in Kyoto's rich cultural heritage at this significant site, where history and art come alive through engaging exhibits.
📍 527 Chayachō, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0931, Japan
- 🏛️Expert guided tours with knowledgeable docents
- 🏛️Audio guides available in multiple languages
- 🏛️Interactive exhibits and hands-on displays
- 🏛️Special exhibitions and rotating collections
- 🏛️Educational programs and workshops
The Museum of Kyoto
Immerse yourself in Kyoto's rich cultural heritage at this significant site, where history and art come alive through engaging exhibits.
📍 623-1 Higashikatamachi, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8183, Japan
- 🏛️Expert guided tours with knowledgeable docents
- 🏛️Audio guides available in multiple languages
- 🏛️Interactive exhibits and hands-on displays
- 🏛️Special exhibitions and rotating collections
- 🏛️Educational programs and workshops
SAMURAI NINJA MUSEUM Kyoto
Immerse yourself in Kyoto's rich cultural heritage at this significant site, where history and art come alive through engaging exhibits.
📍 109 Horinouechō, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8117, Japan
- 🏛️Expert guided tours with knowledgeable docents
- 🏛️Audio guides available in multiple languages
- 🏛️Interactive exhibits and hands-on displays
- 🏛️Special exhibitions and rotating collections
- 🏛️Educational programs and workshops
Kyoto Railway Museum
Immerse yourself in Kyoto's rich cultural heritage at this significant site, where history and art come alive through engaging exhibits.
📍 Kankijicho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8835, Japan
- 🏛️Expert guided tours with knowledgeable docents
- 🏛️Audio guides available in multiple languages
- 🏛️Interactive exhibits and hands-on displays
- 🏛️Special exhibitions and rotating collections
- 🏛️Educational programs and workshops
The National Museum of Modern Art, Kyoto
Immerse yourself in Kyoto's rich cultural heritage at this significant site, where history and art come alive through engaging exhibits.
📍 26-1 Okazaki Enshōjichō, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8344, Japan
- 🏛️Expert guided tours with knowledgeable docents
- 🏛️Audio guides available in multiple languages
- 🏛️Interactive exhibits and hands-on displays
- 🏛️Special exhibitions and rotating collections
- 🏛️Educational programs and workshops
Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art
Immerse yourself in Kyoto's rich cultural heritage at this significant site, where history and art come alive through engaging exhibits.
📍 124 Okazaki Enshōjichō, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8344, Japan
- 🏛️Expert guided tours with knowledgeable docents
- 🏛️Audio guides available in multiple languages
- 🏛️Interactive exhibits and hands-on displays
- 🏛️Special exhibitions and rotating collections
- 🏛️Educational programs and workshops
Kyoto International Manga Museum
Immerse yourself in Kyoto's rich cultural heritage at this significant site, where history and art come alive through engaging exhibits.
📍 452 Kinbukichō, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-0846, Japan
- 🏛️Expert guided tours with knowledgeable docents
- 🏛️Audio guides available in multiple languages
- 🏛️Interactive exhibits and hands-on displays
- 🏛️Special exhibitions and rotating collections
- 🏛️Educational programs and workshops
Nishiki Market
Immerse yourself in Kyoto's rich cultural heritage at this significant site, where history and art come alive through engaging exhibits.
📍 Higashiuoyacho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8055, Japan
- 🏛️Expert guided tours with knowledgeable docents
- 🏛️Audio guides available in multiple languages
- 🏛️Interactive exhibits and hands-on displays
- 🏛️Special exhibitions and rotating collections
- 🏛️Educational programs and workshops
Tokyo National Museum
Immerse yourself in Kyoto's rich cultural heritage at this significant site, where history and art come alive through engaging exhibits.
📍 13-9 Uenokōen, Taito City, Tokyo 110-8712, Japan
- 🏛️Expert guided tours with knowledgeable docents
- 🏛️Audio guides available in multiple languages
- 🏛️Interactive exhibits and hands-on displays
- 🏛️Special exhibitions and rotating collections
- 🏛️Educational programs and workshops
Japan Kanji Museum & Library
Immerse yourself in Kyoto's rich cultural heritage at this significant site, where history and art come alive through engaging exhibits.
📍 551 Gionmachi Minamigawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0074, Japan
- 🏛️Expert guided tours with knowledgeable docents
- 🏛️Audio guides available in multiple languages
- 🏛️Interactive exhibits and hands-on displays
- 🏛️Special exhibitions and rotating collections
- 🏛️Educational programs and workshops
Gekkeikan Ōkura Sake Museum
Immerse yourself in Kyoto's rich cultural heritage at this significant site, where history and art come alive through engaging exhibits.
📍 247 Minamihamachō, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto, 612-8660, Japan
- 🏛️Expert guided tours with knowledgeable docents
- 🏛️Audio guides available in multiple languages
- 🏛️Interactive exhibits and hands-on displays
- 🏛️Special exhibitions and rotating collections
- 🏛️Educational programs and workshops
The Kyoto Arashiyama Orgel Museum
Immerse yourself in Kyoto's rich cultural heritage at this significant site, where history and art come alive through engaging exhibits.
📍 Japan, 〒616-8375 Kyoto, Ukyo Ward, 立石町1−３８ 嵯峨嵐山天竜寺
- 🏛️Expert guided tours with knowledgeable docents
- 🏛️Audio guides available in multiple languages
- 🏛️Interactive exhibits and hands-on displays
- 🏛️Special exhibitions and rotating collections
- 🏛️Educational programs and workshops
Historical Sites & Landmarks
Ancient ruins, historical buildings, monuments, and UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Fushimi Inari Taisha
Step into Kyoto's past at this beautifully preserved site, where expert guides bring history to life.
📍 68 Fukakusa Yabunouchichō, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto, 612-0882, Japan
- 🏛️Historic architecture and design
- 🏛️Guided tours available
- 🏛️Photo opportunities
- 🏛️Educational displays
- 🏛️Accessible facilities
Kiyomizu-dera
Step into Kyoto's past at this beautifully preserved site, where expert guides bring history to life.
📍 1-chōme-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0862, Japan
- 🏛️Historic architecture and design
- 🏛️Guided tours available
- 🏛️Photo opportunities
- 🏛️Educational displays
- 🏛️Accessible facilities
Nijō Castle
Step into Kyoto's past at this beautifully preserved site, where expert guides bring history to life.
📍 541 Nijōjōchō, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8301, Japan
- 🏛️Historic architecture and design
- 🏛️Guided tours available
- 🏛️Photo opportunities
- 🏛️Educational displays
- 🏛️Accessible facilities
To-ji Temple
Step into Kyoto's past at this beautifully preserved site, where expert guides bring history to life.
📍 1 Kujōchō, Minami Ward, Kyoto, 601-8473, Japan
- 🏛️Historic architecture and design
- 🏛️Guided tours available
- 🏛️Photo opportunities
- 🏛️Educational displays
- 🏛️Accessible facilities
Kinkaku-ji
Step into Kyoto's past at this beautifully preserved site, where expert guides bring history to life.
📍 1 Kinkakujichō, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8361, Japan
- 🏛️Historic architecture and design
- 🏛️Guided tours available
- 🏛️Photo opportunities
- 🏛️Educational displays
- 🏛️Accessible facilities
Nishiki Market
Step into Kyoto's past at this beautifully preserved site, where expert guides bring history to life.
📍 Higashiuoyacho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8055, Japan
- 🏛️Historic architecture and design
- 🏛️Guided tours available
- 🏛️Photo opportunities
- 🏛️Educational displays
- 🏛️Accessible facilities
Ginkaku-ji
Step into Kyoto's past at this beautifully preserved site, where expert guides bring history to life.
📍 2 Ginkakujichō, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8402, Japan
- 🏛️Historic architecture and design
- 🏛️Guided tours available
- 🏛️Photo opportunities
- 🏛️Educational displays
- 🏛️Accessible facilities
Ryōan-ji
Step into Kyoto's past at this beautifully preserved site, where expert guides bring history to life.
📍 13 Ryōanji Goryōnoshitachō, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8001, Japan
- 🏛️Historic architecture and design
- 🏛️Guided tours available
- 🏛️Photo opportunities
- 🏛️Educational displays
- 🏛️Accessible facilities
Byōdo-in Temple
Step into Kyoto's past at this beautifully preserved site, where expert guides bring history to life.
📍 Renge-116 Uji, Kyoto 611-0021, Japan
- 🏛️Historic architecture and design
- 🏛️Guided tours available
- 🏛️Photo opportunities
- 🏛️Educational displays
- 🏛️Accessible facilities
Shugakuin Imperial Villa
Step into Kyoto's past at this beautifully preserved site, where expert guides bring history to life.
📍 1-5 Shūgakuin Yabusoe, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8052, Japan
- 🏛️Historic architecture and design
- 🏛️Guided tours available
- 🏛️Photo opportunities
- 🏛️Educational displays
- 🏛️Accessible facilities
Cultural Experiences
Traditional performances, cultural workshops, and immersive experiences celebrating local heritage.
Haru Cooking Class Kyoto
Learn authentic Kyoto cuisine in this hands-on cooking class, guided by expert chefs sharing traditional techniques.
- •Book in advance, classes fill quickly
- •Wear comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes
- •Inform instructor of dietary restrictions
- •Bring camera to document recipes
- •Recipes and ingredients often included
Cooking Sun
Learn authentic Kyoto cuisine in this hands-on cooking class, guided by expert chefs sharing traditional techniques.
- •Book in advance, classes fill quickly
- •Wear comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes
- •Inform instructor of dietary restrictions
- •Bring camera to document recipes
- •Recipes and ingredients often included
Manryo Japanese Cooking Class
Learn authentic Kyoto cuisine in this hands-on cooking class, guided by expert chefs sharing traditional techniques.
- •Book in advance, classes fill quickly
- •Wear comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes
- •Inform instructor of dietary restrictions
- •Bring camera to document recipes
- •Recipes and ingredients often included
さくら日本文化体験 二条城教室 / SAKURA Experience Japanese Culture Nijo Home
Explore Kyoto's cultural landmarks and traditions with expert guides sharing insights into local heritage.
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring water and sun protection
- •Small group tours offer more interaction
- •Tipping guides is customary
- •Ask questions to deepen understanding
Izakaya Factory Kyoto
Engage with Kyoto's living culture through this immersive experience celebrating local traditions and customs.
- •Research cultural context beforehand
- •Be respectful of local customs
- •Engage fully in the experience
- •Take photos where permitted
- •Support local artisans and performers
Our Sunny Workshop
Immerse yourself in Kyoto's artistic traditions through this interactive workshop, creating your own cultural keepsake.
- •No prior experience usually required
- •All materials typically provided
- •Allow 2-3 hours for full experience
- •Take home your creation
- •Ask questions and engage with instructor
iroHa cooking studio
Learn authentic Kyoto cuisine in this hands-on cooking class, guided by expert chefs sharing traditional techniques.
- •Book in advance, classes fill quickly
- •Wear comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes
- •Inform instructor of dietary restrictions
- •Bring camera to document recipes
- •Recipes and ingredients often included
Tea Ceremony & Cultural Experience Kangetsu Kyoto / 日本文化体験教室 寒月 京都二年坂
Explore Kyoto's cultural landmarks and traditions with expert guides sharing insights into local heritage.
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring water and sun protection
- •Small group tours offer more interaction
- •Tipping guides is customary
- •Ask questions to deepen understanding
Kyoto Family Kitchen
Engage with Kyoto's living culture through this immersive experience celebrating local traditions and customs.
- •Research cultural context beforehand
- •Be respectful of local customs
- •Engage fully in the experience
- •Take photos where permitted
- •Support local artisans and performers
La Carriere Cooking School
Learn authentic Kyoto cuisine in this hands-on cooking class, guided by expert chefs sharing traditional techniques.
- •Book in advance, classes fill quickly
- •Wear comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes
- •Inform instructor of dietary restrictions
- •Bring camera to document recipes
- •Recipes and ingredients often included
Religious & Spiritual Sites
Temples, churches, mosques, and spiritual sites of architectural and cultural significance.
To-ji Temple
Experience the spiritual and architectural significance of this Kyoto landmark, a testament to faith and cultural heritage.
📍 1 Kujōchō, Minami Ward, Kyoto, 601-8473, Japan
- 🏛️Stunning architecture and artwork
- 🏛️Peaceful atmosphere for reflection
- 🏛️Historical significance
- 🏛️Guided tours available
- 🏛️Respectful dress code required
Kiyomizu-dera
Experience the spiritual and architectural significance of this Kyoto landmark, a testament to faith and cultural heritage.
📍 1-chōme-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0862, Japan
- 🏛️Stunning architecture and artwork
- 🏛️Peaceful atmosphere for reflection
- 🏛️Historical significance
- 🏛️Guided tours available
- 🏛️Respectful dress code required
Fushimi Inari Taisha
Experience the spiritual and architectural significance of this Kyoto landmark, a testament to faith and cultural heritage.
📍 68 Fukakusa Yabunouchichō, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto, 612-0882, Japan
- 🏛️Stunning architecture and artwork
- 🏛️Peaceful atmosphere for reflection
- 🏛️Historical significance
- 🏛️Guided tours available
- 🏛️Respectful dress code required
Kinkaku-ji
Experience the spiritual and architectural significance of this Kyoto landmark, a testament to faith and cultural heritage.
📍 1 Kinkakujichō, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8361, Japan
- 🏛️Stunning architecture and artwork
- 🏛️Peaceful atmosphere for reflection
- 🏛️Historical significance
- 🏛️Guided tours available
- 🏛️Respectful dress code required
Yasaka Shrine
Experience the spiritual and architectural significance of this Kyoto landmark, a testament to faith and cultural heritage.
📍 625 Gionmachi Kitagawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0073, Japan
- 🏛️Stunning architecture and artwork
- 🏛️Peaceful atmosphere for reflection
- 🏛️Historical significance
- 🏛️Guided tours available
- 🏛️Respectful dress code required
Ryōan-ji
Experience the spiritual and architectural significance of this Kyoto landmark, a testament to faith and cultural heritage.
📍 13 Ryōanji Goryōnoshitachō, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8001, Japan
- 🏛️Stunning architecture and artwork
- 🏛️Peaceful atmosphere for reflection
- 🏛️Historical significance
- 🏛️Guided tours available
- 🏛️Respectful dress code required
Tenryu-ji
Experience the spiritual and architectural significance of this Kyoto landmark, a testament to faith and cultural heritage.
📍 Japan, 〒616-8385 京都府京都市右京区嵯峨天龍寺芒ノ馬場町６８
- 🏛️Stunning architecture and artwork
- 🏛️Peaceful atmosphere for reflection
- 🏛️Historical significance
- 🏛️Guided tours available
- 🏛️Respectful dress code required
Sanjūsangendō Temple
Experience the spiritual and architectural significance of this Kyoto landmark, a testament to faith and cultural heritage.
📍 657 Sanjūsangendōmawari, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0941, Japan
- 🏛️Stunning architecture and artwork
- 🏛️Peaceful atmosphere for reflection
- 🏛️Historical significance
- 🏛️Guided tours available
- 🏛️Respectful dress code required
Walking Tours & Heritage Trails
Guided walking tours and self-guided trails through historic neighborhoods and cultural districts.
TOURS IN KYOTO
Discover Kyoto's history and culture on this guided walking tour, exploring historic neighborhoods and hidden gems with expert local guides.
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring water and sun protection
- •Tours typically last 2-3 hours
- •Small group tours offer better experience
- •Tipping guides is customary (10-20%)
- •Book in advance during peak season
Kyoto Heritage Tours
Discover Kyoto's history and culture on this guided walking tour, exploring historic neighborhoods and hidden gems with expert local guides.
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring water and sun protection
- •Tours typically last 2-3 hours
- •Small group tours offer better experience
- •Tipping guides is customary (10-20%)
- •Book in advance during peak season
Local Guide Stars Kyoto
Discover Kyoto's history and culture on this guided walking tour, exploring historic neighborhoods and hidden gems with expert local guides.
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring water and sun protection
- •Tours typically last 2-3 hours
- •Small group tours offer better experience
- •Tipping guides is customary (10-20%)
- •Book in advance during peak season
Kyoto Fun
Discover Kyoto's history and culture on this guided walking tour, exploring historic neighborhoods and hidden gems with expert local guides.
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring water and sun protection
- •Tours typically last 2-3 hours
- •Small group tours offer better experience
- •Tipping guides is customary (10-20%)
- •Book in advance during peak season
Kyoto Geisha Tours by Japan Wonder Travel
Discover Kyoto's history and culture on this guided walking tour, exploring historic neighborhoods and hidden gems with expert local guides.
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring water and sun protection
- •Tours typically last 2-3 hours
- •Small group tours offer better experience
- •Tipping guides is customary (10-20%)
- •Book in advance during peak season
Japan Wonder Travel: Best Tours in Kyoto
Discover Kyoto's history and culture on this guided walking tour, exploring historic neighborhoods and hidden gems with expert local guides.
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring water and sun protection
- •Tours typically last 2-3 hours
- •Small group tours offer better experience
- •Tipping guides is customary (10-20%)
- •Book in advance during peak season
Kyoto Geisha Show & Experience Gion MAIKOYA
Discover Kyoto's history and culture on this guided walking tour, exploring historic neighborhoods and hidden gems with expert local guides.
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring water and sun protection
- •Tours typically last 2-3 hours
- •Small group tours offer better experience
- •Tipping guides is customary (10-20%)
- •Book in advance during peak season
Your Japan Private Tours
Discover Kyoto's history and culture on this guided walking tour, exploring historic neighborhoods and hidden gems with expert local guides.
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring water and sun protection
- •Tours typically last 2-3 hours
- •Small group tours offer better experience
- •Tipping guides is customary (10-20%)
- •Book in advance during peak season
Local Traditions & Festivals
Cultural festivals, traditional celebrations, and events showcasing local customs and heritage.
Sunset Ridge Hike
Embark on an exhilarating Kyoto adventure that combines stunning natural beauty with heart-pumping excitement and expert guidance.
- •Wear sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support
- •Bring plenty of water - at least 2 liters per person
- •Pack high-energy snacks like trail mix and energy bars
- •Check weather forecast and trail conditions before going
- •Start early to avoid afternoon heat and crowds
Morning Mist Trail
Challenge yourself with this thrilling Kyoto experience, designed for adventurers seeking authentic outdoor excitement and memorable moments.
- •Bring a detailed trail map and compass or GPS
- •Wear layers that can be added or removed
- •Apply sunscreen and bring a hat for sun protection
- •Tell someone your hiking plans and expected return time
- •Carry a first aid kit and know basic first aid
Rock Formation Tour
Explore Kyoto's wild side with this carefully crafted adventure, offering the perfect blend of challenge and natural wonder.
- •Bring a headlamp or flashlight just in case
- •Pack out all trash - leave no trace
- •Stay on marked trails to protect vegetation
- •Be aware of wildlife and keep a safe distance
- •Bring trekking poles for stability on steep sections
Botanical Garden Trail
This Kyoto outdoor experience provides adrenaline-seekers with safe, exciting activities led by certified professionals.
- •Wear sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support
- •Bring plenty of water - at least 2 liters per person
- •Pack high-energy snacks like trail mix and energy bars
- •Check weather forecast and trail conditions before going
- •Start early to avoid afternoon heat and crowds
Lake Shore Path
Discover the raw beauty of Kyoto's landscape through this immersive adventure, suitable for various skill levels.
- •Bring a detailed trail map and compass or GPS
- •Wear layers that can be added or removed
- •Apply sunscreen and bring a hat for sun protection
- •Tell someone your hiking plans and expected return time
- •Carry a first aid kit and know basic first aid
Mountain Pass Crossing
Push your limits with this Kyoto expedition, where experienced guides ensure both safety and unforgettable thrills.
- •Bring a headlamp or flashlight just in case
- •Pack out all trash - leave no trace
- •Stay on marked trails to protect vegetation
- •Be aware of wildlife and keep a safe distance
- •Bring trekking poles for stability on steep sections
Essential Tips
- 🏛️Book tickets online to skip long queues
- 🏛️Visit museums on free admission days
- 🏛️Hire local guides for deeper cultural insights
- 🏛️Respect dress codes at religious sites
- 🏛️Take guided tours to learn historical context
- 🏛️Check opening hours and closed days
- 🏛️Photography may be restricted in some sites
- 🏛️Allow plenty of time - don't rush through museums
- 🏛️Consider multi-site passes for savings
- 🏛️Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
The best time for cultural experiences in Kyoto varies by activity and season. Generally, spring and fall offer ideal conditions with pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer is peak season with the most options but also the highest prices and largest crowds. Winter can offer unique experiences and better deals, though some activities may be limited.
Average Price
Prices for cultural experiences in Kyoto range widely depending on the activity and level of service. Budget options start around $20-50, mid-range experiences typically cost $75-150, while premium and exclusive options can range from $200-500+. Many activities offer group discounts and package deals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Kyoto offers many excellent cultural experiences, each with its own unique character. The best choice depends on your preferences, budget, and schedule, but our guide highlights the top-rated options that consistently deliver exceptional experiences.
Timing varies by activity, but generally spring and fall offer ideal conditions. Summer is peak season with the most options but larger crowds. Check individual listings for specific timing recommendations and seasonal considerations.
For popular experiences, especially during peak season, advance booking is highly recommended. Some activities have limited capacity and sell out quickly. Booking ahead also often provides better rates and ensures availability.
Requirements vary by activity, but generally bring comfortable clothing, appropriate footwear, sun protection, water, and any specific gear mentioned in activity descriptions. Check individual listings for detailed requirements.
Many cultural experiences in Kyoto cater to all skill levels, from beginners to experts. Check individual listings for difficulty levels and requirements. Many operators offer instruction and guidance for newcomers.
Costs vary widely depending on the type of experience and level of service. Budget options start around $20-50, mid-range experiences typically cost $75-150, while premium options can range from $200-500+. Group discounts and packages are often available.
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