Explore the beauty of Kiyomizu-dera Temple through these stunning photos, capturing its iconic architecture and scenic landscapes.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple, officially Otowa-san Kiyomizu-dera, is a renowned Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Japan. Established in 778, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a key component of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto. The temple is best known for its wooden stage that juts out from the main hall, offering stunning views of the city and surrounding hills. The name 'Kiyomizu' translates to 'Pure Water,' derived from the Otowa Waterfall located within the temple grounds. This temple is a must-see for anyone visiting Kyoto, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical significance.
There is no strict dress code for visiting Kiyomizu-dera Temple, but it is advisable to dress respectfully. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Comfortable attire is recommended, as you will be doing a lot of walking. During colder months, dress warmly, as the temple is located on a hillside and can be exposed to the elements. Consider wearing shoes that are easy to remove if you plan to enter any of the temple's interior spaces where shoes are not allowed.
This experience is not wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
This experience involves a lot of walking, and paths may be uneven. This tour is not recommended for pregnant women and guests with mobility issues.
The order of the itinerary and visits to certain attractions may be adjusted due to traffic and weather conditions.
Always carry your passport, important documents, and valuables with you, and keep them safe. Any loss, theft, or damage will be your responsibility.
For safety reasons, elderly guests, expectant mothers, and those with cardiovascular conditions (e.g. high blood pressure, heart disease) should travel with a family member or companion.
Guests aged 70+ must be in good health, provide a medical certificate, and be accompanied by a relative or friend aged 22+.
Comply with all local laws and regulations in Japan, and do not carry prohibited items.
Respect local customs, and avoid behaviors that could be considered disrespectful.
Be punctual for pick-up at the designated location. Late arrivals, no-shows, or joining midway will result in forfeiting your booking with no refund.
Meals are not included—please budget for your own food. Note that some restaurants may not allow outside food.
If you are prone to motion sickness, please prepare suitable medication in advance.
Guests under 18 must travel with an adult.
You’ll also have 3 hours of free time to explore at your own pace.
Recommended: Walk from Kiyomizu Temple (tickets at own expense) through Nissanzaka and Ishibaka-koji, continue to Gion’s Hanami-koji, and finish at Yasaka Shrine. Guests can decide how much to cover based on their time and interest.
Shinsaibashi & Dotonbori (Approx. 1 hr, free time): End the day shopping in Shinsaibashi or trying local dishes such as takoyaki and okonomiyaki in Dotonbori.
Interested guests can put on a kimono and visit Kiyomizu Temple. You can choose to return the kimono at any of the many shops, including Kiyomizu Temple and Fushimi Inari Shrine. We recommend borrowing at Kiyomizu Temple and returning to Fushimi Inari. Please note: expenses are self-paid.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple's history stretches back to the late Nara period. The temple was founded by Sakanoue no Tamuramaro, a general who, after hunting deer, was compelled by a vision to convert his home into a temple. The original structure burned down several times, and the current buildings were reconstructed in 1633 during the Edo period. Kiyomizu-dera is associated with the Hosso sect, one of the oldest schools of Japanese Buddhism. Throughout the year, the temple hosts various festivals and events, attracting numerous visitors who come to admire its architecture and natural surroundings. Its main hall, supported by hundreds of pillars, and the Otowa Waterfall, believed to have therapeutic properties, are particularly significant.
Booking your visit to Kiyomizu-dera online can save you time and ensure a smooth experience. While tickets are generally available on-site, having a pre-booked ticket can help you avoid potential queues, especially during peak tourist seasons. Booking online often provides additional information about the temple, including maps and details about special events. This preparation can enhance your visit, allowing you to fully appreciate the cultural and historical significance of this iconic Kyoto landmark.
The history of Kiyomizu-dera Temple dates back to 778 when Sakanoue no Tamuramaro, a general, encountered a Buddhist priest named Enchin Shonin near the Otowa Waterfall. Inspired by a vision, Tamuramaro converted his residence into a temple to honor Kannon, the goddess of mercy. The temple gained prominence during the Heian period and received patronage from the imperial court. Over the centuries, Kiyomizu-dera faced several fires, and the current structures were rebuilt in 1633 by Tokugawa Iemitsu. Today, Kiyomizu-dera stands as a testament to Japanese architectural and religious heritage, attracting millions of visitors annually.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple's opening hours typically range from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, but these times can vary depending on the season and special events. During certain periods, such as the autumn foliage season, the temple may extend its hours for evening illuminations. It is recommended to check the official Kiyomizu-dera Temple website or visitor information sources for the most accurate and up-to-date schedule before planning your visit.
The best times to visit Kiyomizu-dera are during the spring (late March to early April) for cherry blossoms and the autumn (mid-November to early December) for vibrant foliage. These seasons offer stunning natural backdrops that enhance the temple's beauty. However, these are also peak tourist seasons, so expect larger crowds. Visiting on a weekday or early in the morning can help you avoid some of the congestion.
Inside Kiyomizu-dera Temple, visitors can explore a variety of fascinating sites. The main hall, with its large wooden stage, is a focal point, providing expansive views. Below the main hall, the Otowa Waterfall offers three separate streams of water; drinking from each is said to grant different benefits—longevity, success in studies, and a happy love life. Jishu Shrine, dedicated to love and matchmaking, features 'love stones' that visitors attempt to walk between with their eyes closed for good luck in relationships. Additionally, the Koyasu Pagoda is believed to ensure safe childbirth. The temple complex also includes several smaller halls, gardens, and statues, each contributing to the rich cultural experience.
When visiting Kiyomizu-dera, wear comfortable shoes, as there is a fair amount of walking involved, including uphill paths and stairs. Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak seasons. Photography is allowed in most areas, but using tripods may be restricted in crowded spots. Remember to bring cash, as some smaller shops and stalls may not accept credit cards. There are also coin lockers available near the entrance for storing bags and personal items.
As a sacred site, Kiyomizu-dera Temple has certain rules that visitors are expected to follow. Avoid loud conversations and disruptive behavior. Do not enter restricted areas or touch any religious artifacts. Smoking is generally prohibited within the temple grounds. When visiting the main hall and other prayer areas, maintain a respectful demeanor. These guidelines help preserve the serene atmosphere of the temple for all visitors.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple is undoubtedly worth visiting for its historical significance, stunning architecture, and breathtaking views. The iconic wooden stage, the sacred Otowa Waterfall, and the charming Jishu Shrine all contribute to a rich cultural experience. Whether you're interested in history, religion, or simply beautiful scenery, Kiyomizu-dera offers something for everyone. It's a must-see destination in Kyoto that will leave a lasting impression.
Kiyomizu-dera is famous for its wooden stage, the Otowa Waterfall, and its historical significance as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The entrance fee for Kiyomizu-dera is typically around 400 yen for adults and 200 yen for children.
Yes, Kiyomizu-dera is generally open year-round, but the opening hours may vary depending on the season.
Yes, you can drink the water from the Otowa Waterfall. Each of the three streams is said to grant different benefits: longevity, success in studies, and a happy love life. However, it is customary to only drink from one stream.
Yes, Kiyomizu-dera hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, including special illuminations during the spring and autumn seasons.
The journey from Kyoto Station to Kiyomizu-dera takes about 30-40 minutes by bus, followed by a 10-15 minute walk uphill to the temple.
While some parts of Kiyomizu-dera are accessible, certain areas, such as the main hall and some of the smaller shrines, may be challenging for people with mobility issues due to stairs and uneven paths.
Yes, there are many restaurants and tea houses located along the approach to Kiyomizu-dera, offering a variety of local cuisine and refreshments.
From Kyoto Station, take bus number 206 or 100 to the Gojo-zaka or Kiyomizu-michi bus stop. From either stop, it's about a 10-15 minute uphill walk to the temple. Alternatively, you can take the Keihan Railway to Kiyomizu-Gojo Station, followed by a 20-minute walk.
There is no strict dress code for visiting Kiyomizu-dera Temple, but it is advisable to dress respectfully. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Comfortable attire is recommended, as you will be doing a lot of walking. During colder months, dress warmly, as the temple is located on a hillside and can be exposed to the elements. Consider wearing shoes that are easy to remove if you plan to enter any of the temple's interior spaces where shoes are not allowed.
