Kiyomizudera is one of the most reverred temples in Japan. Kiyomizudera temple translates to Pure Water Temple, as the temple was founded in the late 8th century near to Otowa Waterfall, which is fed from a spring on the hill Kiyomizudera temple was built upon. It’s a popular sightseeing spot in Japan, attracting millions to the temple grounds yearly as the temple offers unforgettable views and cultural experiences.
In 1994, Kiyomizudera, along with several other popular destinations in Kyoto, were recognised as UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Kiyomizudera is most famously known for the wooden stage extending from the main hall, which stands on wooden pedestals that jettison the temple 13m above the floor of the hillside. The wooden stage provides an excellent vantage point of the trees in Spring and Autumn, allowing you to experience the natural beauty from a unique vantage point.
Odowa Falls is located near the base of Kiyomizudera’s main hall, and guests to the temple often drink the pure water in order to receive a blessing of good luck. You are supposed to drink from only one of the 3 streams which flow down from the waterfall. Drinking from all 3 to attempt to gain the most luck is considered selfish and highly looked down upon.
From the main hall of, Kiyomizudera, you can see Kayasu Pagoda, which can be accessed via a path on the ground, and is stopped at frequently by pregnant women and their partners, as a visit to the pagoda is said to bring an easy and safe childbirth.
Behind Kiyomizudera, you can find Jishu Shrine. Jishu shrine is a shrine dedicated to the deity of love and matchmaking. It is popular due to the two stone which are placed 18m apart. According to the tradition, successfully making it from one stone to the other with your eyes closed is said to bring luck in finding love. One may received help should they wish getting between the stones, but this can be see is that in a relationship, a support person may be needed in the relationship as well.
Kiyomizudera are the surrounding area is also famous for the various special evening illumination festivals, which take place in both the spring for Cherry Blossom season, and in Autumn for the changing of colours in the trees. Autumn is the peak season for tourism to Kiyomizudera because the temple is elevated on a hill, making it a perfect vantage point of the view the fall foliage as the trees change to yellow and red.
A special illumination festival is also held for Obon in August.
Hours and Admission
- Hours: 6:00am - 6:00pm (6:00am-6:30pmJuly-August) | Until 9:30pm in times of evening illumination festivals (Last entry at 9:00pm).
- 400JPY
- Average Time Spent: 30-60 Minutes
- Official Website
Accessing Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Kiyomizudera Temple is located a bit of a walk from the nearest train station, with the nearest station being Kizomizu-Gojo, which is about a 20-30 minute walk (not including shopping stops). The road to the Kiyomizudera temple is crowded with a few small stair cases that dot the pathway to the main temple.
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Where to Stay
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