7 highlights and attractions of Kiyomizu-dera Temple! A thorough guide to the classics, hidden gems, and Instagram-worthy spots
This time Kyoto ・Highlights of Kiyomizu-dera Temple Focus on!
Things to check out when sightseeing
7
introduction.
Popular, hidden and Instagrammable spots within the temple grounds
We have picked a well-balanced selection!
Information on recommended experiences and hidden tourist spots in the area Please check it out as well.
What kind of temple is Kiyomizu-dera?
Eastern Kyoto City.
Located on the hillside of Mt. Otowa, a mountain rich in nature
Kiyomizu Temple
teeth,
One of the prefecture's leading ancient temples, boasting worldwide fame
is.
It was founded in 778 (Hōki 9) at the end of the Nara period.
Over its 1,200-year history, it has attracted the reverence of many warriors and cultural figures.
It remains popular and well-known even today!
It is known as a spot that attracts many tourists from both Japan and abroad.
In spring, summer and autumn Light up for a limited time The event, which illuminates the temple and the lush natural surroundings of Mt. Otowa, is a spectacular sight that is sure to draw attention.
The buildings within the temple grounds have been rebuilt many times since their founding.
Many of the buildings that remain today date back to the early Edo period.
It is said that...
Making good use of wood
The beauty of traditional Japanese architecture is a must-see
is!
Why not check out the highlights described below and plan your sightseeing itinerary accordingly?
In the following,
A recommended experience plan for sightseeing at Kiyomizu-dera Temple and the surrounding area
Now posted!
Kyoto
Perfect for making sightseeing memories
Kimono rental experience
We mainly pick out the following.
Be sure to try out this plan that catches your eye to improve your mood and look great while visiting the shrine!
Makeup, dressing, wig, 2 photos, 10 minutes of free photoshoot, 2 photos (postcard size) During the 10 minutes of free photoshoot, you can take photos freely with your own camera or smartphone. *A half wig is recommended for a natural finish (additional 2,310 yen, can be applied for at the reception on the day)
You can enjoy a Japanese sweets experience in a kimono!! We have a wide selection of kimonos (yukata) for women, men, and children (up to 5 people can be booked). Both kimono rental and Japanese sweets experience are available for ages 5 and up, so it is also recommended for families! [Price] Kimono (yukata) rental + Japanese sweets experience 7,700 yen (tax included) Kimono (yukata) rental
This special discount plan from Activity Japan is very reasonable♪ It's a great deal where you can rent a kimono or yukata for 3,500 yen per person. Hair styling, which normally costs 1,500 yen, is free, so you can dress up your whole body in a cute outfit♪ Even if you don't like styling your hair yourself, you can leave it to us☆○ Choose your favorite kimono or yukata
○You can choose your favorite lace kimono♪ If you are not sure how to coordinate your outfit, please feel free to consult with our staff♪ Lace kimonos are a modern style that combines Japanese tradition with Western lace materials. They are gaining popularity among the younger generation for their unique beauty. The delicateness of lace and the elegance of kimono combine to create a unique look that is not found in ordinary kimonos.
7 Must-see Attractions at Kiyomizu-dera Temple
In the following, Seven highlights and attractions of Kiyomizu-dera Temple introduction!
A wide range of picks from classics to hidden gems Yes, we are.
1. Kiyomizu Stage (Main Hall)
Speaking of Kiyomizu-dera,
Kiyomizu Stage
(Main hall)!
The main hall and its part, the Kiyomizu stage, are built on a cliff.
National Treasure
It is also designated as the most popular spot in the temple grounds.
is.
It is also the origin of the proverb "Jumping off the stage at Kiyomizu Temple," which means "to face a situation with strong determination and resolve."
The height of the stage is
Approximately 13m, equivalent to the fourth floor of a building
.
From the stage that juts out onto the cliff,
A panoramic view of the natural scenery of Mt. Otowa and the cityscape of Kyoto
Yes you can!
2. Three-story pagoda
Kyoto
A landmark of Kiyomizu-dera Temple that can be seen from all over the city.
is!
It was built in the early Heian period, and the rebuilt version in 1632 (Kan'ei 9) at the beginning of the Edo period remains to this day.
The tower is about 30m tall.
One of the largest three-story pagodas in Japan
.
Not only is it big in scale,
The beautiful exterior, decorated in brilliant colors with a vermilion base, is a must-see
That's right!
3. Otowa Falls
This is a sacred waterfall that is said to be the origin of the founding of Kiyomizu-dera Temple!
Kenshin was a monk in training at the end of the Nara period, and later founded Kiyomizu-dera Temple.
The person followed the prophecy in a dream and went to the training ground.
Nara
Leaving
The water source found in the mountains of Mt. Otowa is believed to be the present-day "Otowa Falls."
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The statue enshrined at the back of the waterfall is Acala.
After worshipping here,
Use a ladle to scoop up the water from the three-way waterfall, drink it, and make a wish.
!
Life extension ・ Purification of the Six Senses (Rokkonshojo / To become pure in mind and body) Wish fulfilled And other benefits is famous.
4. Niomon Gate
This is the main gate at the entrance to Kiyomizu-dera Temple!
It was burned down during the Onin War, and the current gate was rebuilt around 1500 during the late Muromachi period.
.
The Nio statues enshrined there are works from the Kamakura period.
The statue is 3m65cm tall.
The largest Nio statue in Kyoto
It is said that!
Don't miss the beautiful vermilion color restored during the Heisei era's major repairs is.
5. Jishu Shrine
"
Jishu Shrine
(Family Member)" is
A shrine located right next to the main hall of Kiyomizu-dera Temple
is!
Okuninushi-no-Mikoto, who is said to grant blessings in finding love
(Ookuninushi-no-Mikoto)
It is dedicated to
.
It was founded before the founding of Japan!
Scientific analysis has revealed that the "Love Fortune-Telling Stone" located within the shrine grounds dates back to the Jomon period.
The precious buildings and grounds have been designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan, Recognized as a World Heritage Site It is being done!
The current shrine building was rebuilt in 1633 (Kan'ei 10) by Tokugawa Iemitsu.
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Be sure to check out the Nara period architectural style and colorful paintings when you visit!
*As of April 2025, the temple is currently closed due to construction work on the buildings and grounds. The construction period is yet to be determined, so please check the website before visiting.
6. Zuikyudo
"
Zuikyudo
"Zuigudo" is the first hall you see when you enter through the main gate and go straight ahead!
The principal image of the temple, a secret Buddha called Daizuigu Bosatsu, is said to grant the wishes of all living beings.
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The principal image was opened to the public in 2018 for the first time in 222 years.
It will also be open to the public for a limited time from January to March 2025.
!
Benefits for matchmaking, safe childbirth, and child rearing
It is also famous for its shrine, so it is recommended for parents and children or couples to visit together.
Inside the hall, which is designed to resemble the womb of Daizuigu Bodhisattva,
You can participate in the "Tainai Meguri" tour, which involves moving forward in the dark with the help of prayer beads.
.
In the darkness, touch the stone engraved with Sanskrit characters and make a wish!
7. Jojuin Temple Garden
North of the precinct,
A nationally designated place of scenic beauty located within the grounds of Jojuin Temple
!
It is usually not public, but
A hidden gem that is only open to the public in spring and autumn
is.
The garden is located on the slope of Mt. Otowa. In the foreground are trees and a pond that show different expressions through the seasons, and in the background is the borrowed view of Mt. Otowa, creating a landscape with a strong sense of depth. is spreading.
It is also known as the "Moon Garden," and the moonlit garden is filled with divine beauty!
Not only during the day when the air is calm,
The divine atmosphere of the illuminated night view, which can be enjoyed only during the autumn release period, is also appealing.
.
Kyoto
If you have time in your sightseeing schedule
We recommend visiting at both times and discovering the charms of each.
is.
Feature articles recommended by the editorial department
2 hidden spots for Instagram around Kiyomizu-dera Temple
In the following,
Two hidden spots for Instagram around Kiyomizu-dera Temple
introduction!
It is within walking distance from Kiyomizu-dera Temple, so be sure to visit both places.
If you want to capture the beauty of the ancient capital, Kyoto, Nearby Kimono rental plan It is recommended to use !
Why not enjoy Kyoto in authentic Japanese attire with a group of friends or your partner?
○You can choose your favorite Homongi ♪ If you are not sure how to coordinate your outfit, please feel free to consult with our staff ♪ Homongi is a traditional Japanese kimono that is chosen for especially formal occasions. Its charm lies in its rich colors and delicate patterns, which create an elegant beauty. Homongi is suitable for formal occasions such as weddings, receptions, parties, and tea ceremonies.
○You can choose your favorite black kimono. If you are not sure how to coordinate your outfit, please feel free to consult with our staff. The black kimono is a high-class kimono among traditional Japanese formal wear, suitable for formal occasions such as weddings and official ceremonies. It is a look that is favored by the mother of the bride and married women, and is luxurious with gold and silver on a black background.
We will apply a discount of 500 yen per person from the regular kimono rental fee. Please choose from the regular kimonos for both men and women. *When you make a reservation, we will ask you to pay 5,000 yen in advance as a deposit, which is a part of the kimono rental fee for your family. Please settle the difference at the store. This is a great way to make a family trip to Kyoto or a special memory.
This special discount plan from Activity Japan is very reasonable♪ It's a great deal where you can rent a kimono and yukata for 5,500 yen for two people. For women, hair styling, which normally costs 1,500 yen, is free, so you can dress up your whole body cutely♪ Even if you don't like styling your hair yourself, you can leave it to us☆○Your favorite kimono
1. Asahizaka
A small path located between Matsubara Street and Kiyomizu New Road leading to Kiyomizu Temple.
is!
From halfway up the narrow staircase, you can get a panoramic view of the townscape around Kiyomizu-dera Temple.
Hidden shops dot the streets with a calm atmosphere
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An art gallery dealing in traditional crafts, a pottery shop specializing in the region, a store selling exquisite sake ware and sake tastings, and a restaurant and sweets shop focusing on ware.
And so on.
A plethora of Instagrammable spots where you can experience the local culture
is!
Why not enjoy some Kyoto-style sightseeing, shopping, and dining before or after visiting Kiyomizu-dera Temple, while also taking in the beautiful photos?
2. Otani Honbyo Temple
" Otani Honbyo "(Otanihonbyo)" is Located near Higashioji-dori and Gojozaka, which run north and south on the east side of Kiyomizu-dera Temple. We are doing it.
This cemetery is owned by Nishi Honganji, the head temple of the Jodo Shinshu Honganji sect!
It is known as the burial site of Saint Shinran, the founder of the sect.
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Within the temple grounds, there are many historic buildings built during the Edo period!
Colorful flowers offered by worshippers float in the water
"
Flower Fountain
"
or,
The two arches are reflected on the surface of the lotus pond.
"
Megane Bridge
(Entsu Bridge)
There are plenty of photogenic spots, such as:
Why not take your time and enjoy the atmosphere and beauty of this historic temple in a slightly more relaxed atmosphere than major tourist destinations?
Make the most of Kiyomizu-dera Temple's highlights
This time What to see at Kiyomizu-dera Temple We featured it here!
Kiyomizu-dera Temple is a place where you can enjoy a variety of things. The spacious grounds are filled with attractions, from classics to little-known gems is.
Be sure to use this special feature as a reference and make the most of Kiyomizu-dera Temple's highlights on your next trip to Kyoto!
*The content of this article is current as of April 2025.
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