On "Kyoto-ness": Many say Kyoto is the "soul of Japan." In your opinion, what is the source of this unique "Kyoto-ness"? Is it the ubiquitous historical architecture, the slow pace of life, or the reserved yet proud character of the local people?

You've posed an exceptionally insightful question that precisely touches upon the core essence of Kyoto's charm. As the saying goes, Kyoto is the "soul of Japan." This unique "Kyoto feeling" (Kyoto-kan) is indeed not explainable by a single factor. Rather, it's a "aesthetic aura" woven together by the aspects you mentioned and deeper elements.

Think of the "Kyoto feeling" as a meticulously crafted cocktail. Its base spirit is a millennium of accumulated history, but what truly gives it its unique flavor and rich complexity is the perfect fusion of the following "ingredients":

1. The Foundation: A Sense of a Time-Bound World (Kekkai-kan)

This is precisely the atmosphere created by the "ubiquitous historical buildings" you noted, but it extends beyond the visual.

Narrative Space: In Kyoto, you don't just "see" history; you "step into" it. As your footsteps land on temple floors smoothed by centuries, as your fingertips brush moss-covered stone lanterns, as you hear your own echo on narrow cobblestone paths, time and space fold in a peculiar way. You feel as if you've entered a "Kekkai" (barrier), where the clamor of modern life is shut out by an invisible boundary. This isn't mere nostalgia; it's an immersive spatio-temporal experience.
Tension of Coexistence: Kyoto's charm also lies in the fact that it isn't a dead museum. A thousand-year-old temple might stand beside a 7-Eleven; women in traditional kimono pass salarymen in suits. This juxtaposition of old and new doesn't feel jarring; instead, it creates a unique tension, constantly reminding you: History is alive, breathing within the everyday.

2. The Soul: The Aesthetics of a Curated Daily Life

This corresponds to the "slow pace of life" you mentioned, but its core is an extreme pursuit and practice of "beauty."

From "Existing" to "Living": Kyotoites seem gifted at elevating everyday "tasks" into aesthetic "paths" (Dō). The process of whisking matcha (tea ceremony), arranging a single flower (ikebana), presenting a meal (kaiseki), even wrapping a gift in a shop – all embody respect for form, order, and ritual. This "slowness" isn't inefficiency; it's to make space and time for aesthetics.
Permeation of Wabi-Sabi Aesthetics: This aesthetic appreciates imperfection, transience, and simplicity. A chipped tea bowl, weathered wood, a fallen leaf in a garden – all hold unique beauty in the eyes of Kyotoites. This sensibility allows finding poetry in the ordinary or incomplete, fostering inner peace and harmony.

3. The Character: Reserved Pride and Perseverance

This is the "reserved yet proud local temperament" you observed.

"Guardian" Mentality of an Ancient Capital: As the capital for over a millennium, Kyoto has witnessed countless dynastic changes and historical shifts. This experience instills a unique pride in locals – not ostentatious, but internalized as a "guardian's" sense of duty. They guard not just buildings, but lifestyles, traditional crafts, and cultural spirit. This pride stems from absolute confidence in their cultural roots.
Balance of "Iki" and "Miyabi": Kyotoites embody a subtle balance. They pursue "Miyabi" (courtly elegance and refinement) but also understand "Iki" (Edo-style chic sophistication). Their communication is often indirect and reserved, emotions not readily displayed – a matter of politeness and an aesthetic preserving inner independence. The "reserve" you sense is this cultural expression.

4. The Aura: A Symbiotic Relationship with Nature

This is the indispensable, vital element of the "Kyoto feeling."

Seasonal Rituals: Kyoto's life pulses with the seasons. Cherry blossoms in spring (Hanami), riverbed dining in summer, autumn foliage (Momijigari), snow-covered Kinkaku-ji in winter – each season has unique aesthetic themes and rituals. The city's design, from gardens and architecture to cuisine, aims to maximize the experience of seasonal change.
Cosmology in Gardens: Kyoto's gardens, especially Karesansui (dry landscape) gardens, are more than scenery. Sand symbolizes rivers and seas; rocks represent mountains – a microcosm of the universe. Within a small space lies profound Zen philosophy and a view of nature. Contemplating it evokes tranquility and depth beyond the material world.

In Summary:

The true source of the "Kyoto feeling" is the chemical reaction between these four elements.

It is a unique urban aura woven together by a millennium of history (Time), ubiquitous aesthetics (Space), tradition-preserving residents (People), and distinctly seasonal nature (Environment).

It's not merely what your eyes see; it's an atmosphere you feel with your entire being. Walking through Kyoto is like reading a timeless, three-dimensional poem written by time and aesthetics. This is the essence of the "Kyoto feeling."