Some experts believe that people started living in Kyoto 12000 years ago but the first written record of the city dates back to the 6th century. At this time, people built Shimogamo Shrine in the city. It’s considered as one of the oldest buildings in the city. 
Becoming the capital, The year 794 was a great year for Kyoto. Emperor Kanmu decided to relocate the capital to Kyoto. Kyoto remained the Japanese capital for centuries till 1868 when Tokyo took that title.