Apr. 13, 2020 UPDATE
Kiyomizu-dera Temple - 清水寺 -
Traveler Friendly
English brochures are available
Information
English information is available
Languages spoken
Japanese only
11847 196 9.1 3 reviews
Apr. 13, 2020 UPDATE

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

- 清水寺 -
Traveler Friendly
English brochures are available
Information
English information is available
Languages spoken
Japanese only
11847 196 9.1 3 reviews
Story & Recommendation
The most famous and picturesque temple in Kyoto has to be Kiyomizu-dera
Once a place that attracted many pilgrims, the temple continues to draw many people from all over the world.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple (Kiyomizudera) is one of the top places to visit in Kyoto, and it was added to the list of UNESCO world heritage sites in 1994.
It is a location where you can feel the history of Kyoto in the air and overlook the incredible view of the city.
The temple was founded in the 8th century and was rebuilt to its present structure in the 17th century. Within the premises, you will find a shrine for good relationships and also several resting spots where you can try green tea and Japanese treats.
We recommend that you plan to stay for at least an hour inside the temple to fully appreciate its presence!
1Highlight
Take pictures from the side
Take pictures from the side
Check out the side view of Kiyomizu-dera Temple! After you walk through the main hall, or the stage, you will be walking through a pathway on the side of the main sanctuary. Enjoy the incredible view of the city as well as the side view of the stage. This area is an ideal picture taking spot! During the Edo period, people would jump off of the 13 meter high stage with the belief that if survived, one’s wish would be granted. Out of the 234 people who jumped, 85.4 % survived. Though before you go and jump of the stage you should note that there used to be trees under the stage and the ground is said to have been softer than it is now, so we do not recommend you jump off it.
2Highlight
Cleanse your soul with pure water of Kiyomizu
Cleanse your soul with pure water of Kiyomizu
On your way back down after going through the main sanctuary, you will find Otowa-no-taki, a waterfall that has been continuously streaming for thousands of years. The meaning of the name, "Kiyomizu," originates from the pure water that runs in the area, Kiyomizu meaning just that: pure water. Go ahead and participate in cleansing your soul with this streaming pure water.
3Good Experiences
Look for the Ojizo-sama statues
Look for the Ojizo-sama statues
Look for these Ojizo-sama statues. Located within premises of Kiyomizu-dera Temple, the statues are located off the path from the entrance. Ojizo-sama statues are often spotted across Japan and are considered to be guardians of children. Usually the statues are of children who died before their parents. The bibs are placed to protect them in their afterlife.
- Manner & Tips -
Taking pictures from the main sanctuary, or the stage, is prohibited. At the main sanctuary, you will encounter an area where sticks of incense are placed. If you want to offer a stick of incense to this altar, put ¥10 in a box and then after lighting the stick place it next to the others sticks of incense.
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