SUMMARY
Kiyomizudera Temple is one of Kyoto’s most famous and historic landmarks, as well as one of Japan’s most celebrated UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Perched on the hillside of eastern Kyoto, the temple is renowned for its iconic Kiyomizu Stage, which offers spectacular views over Kyoto city. Particularly beautiful during the cherry blossom season in spring and the autumn foliage season, Kiyomizudera is considered one of the must-visit attractions in Kyoto.
DESCRIPTION
Kiyomizudera Temple (清水寺) is one of Kyoto’s oldest and most important Buddhist temples. Founded in 778, the temple predates the establishment of Kyoto as Japan’s capital and has over 1,200 years of history.
The temple’s most famous feature is the Kiyomizu Stage, a large wooden terrace that extends from the main hall. Built entirely without nails, it is considered a masterpiece of traditional Japanese architecture. From the stage, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto and the surrounding mountains throughout the year.
Kiyomizudera is especially popular during spring, when cherry blossoms surround the temple grounds, and during autumn, when vibrant red and orange maple leaves create breathtaking scenery. Seasonal evening illuminations further enhance the temple’s beauty, attracting visitors from across Japan and around the world.
The temple’s name, which means “Pure Water Temple,” comes from the nearby Otowa Waterfall. The waterfall is divided into three streams, each believed to bring blessings related to success in studies, good health, and longevity. Visitors can drink from the waterfall using traditional cups to receive these blessings.
Kiyomizudera is also conveniently located near other famous attractions such as Higashiyama District, Ninenzaka, Sannenzaka, Kodaiji Temple, and Yasaka Shrine, making it an ideal starting point for exploring historic Kyoto.
Recognized as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site "Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto," Kiyomizudera remains one of the most visited and beloved attractions in Japan.
The temple’s most famous feature is the Kiyomizu Stage, a large wooden terrace that extends from the main hall. Built entirely without nails, it is considered a masterpiece of traditional Japanese architecture. From the stage, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto and the surrounding mountains throughout the year.
Kiyomizudera is especially popular during spring, when cherry blossoms surround the temple grounds, and during autumn, when vibrant red and orange maple leaves create breathtaking scenery. Seasonal evening illuminations further enhance the temple’s beauty, attracting visitors from across Japan and around the world.
The temple’s name, which means “Pure Water Temple,” comes from the nearby Otowa Waterfall. The waterfall is divided into three streams, each believed to bring blessings related to success in studies, good health, and longevity. Visitors can drink from the waterfall using traditional cups to receive these blessings.
Kiyomizudera is also conveniently located near other famous attractions such as Higashiyama District, Ninenzaka, Sannenzaka, Kodaiji Temple, and Yasaka Shrine, making it an ideal starting point for exploring historic Kyoto.
Recognized as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site "Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto," Kiyomizudera remains one of the most visited and beloved attractions in Japan.
Access
By Bus
From Kyoto Station, take Kyoto City Bus No.100 or No.206 toward Kiyomizudera.
• Travel time: approximately 15 minutes
• Fare: ¥230 one way
Get off at either Gojo-zaka Bus Stop or Kiyomizu-michi Bus Stop, then enjoy a scenic uphill walk of about 10 minutes to the temple.
By Car
For a more comfortable and hassle-free visit, we recommend using Easy Travel sightseeing taxi to explore Kyoto comfortably.
From Kyoto Station, take Kyoto City Bus No.100 or No.206 toward Kiyomizudera.
• Travel time: approximately 15 minutes
• Fare: ¥230 one way
Get off at either Gojo-zaka Bus Stop or Kiyomizu-michi Bus Stop, then enjoy a scenic uphill walk of about 10 minutes to the temple.
By Car
For a more comfortable and hassle-free visit, we recommend using Easy Travel sightseeing taxi to explore Kyoto comfortably.
Hours & Fees
Kiyomizudera Temple (清水寺)
Opening Hours:
Daily: 06:00 – 18:00
※ Open until 18:30 on weekends and public holidays from mid-April through July, and daily during August and September.
※ During special spring and autumn evening illumination events, the temple reopens from 18:00 – 21:00.
Admission Fee:
• Adults: ¥500 (from April 2024)
※ Cherry blossom season and autumn foliage season are the most popular times to visit. Early morning visits are recommended for a quieter and more peaceful experience.
Opening Hours:
Daily: 06:00 – 18:00
※ Open until 18:30 on weekends and public holidays from mid-April through July, and daily during August and September.
※ During special spring and autumn evening illumination events, the temple reopens from 18:00 – 21:00.
Admission Fee:
• Adults: ¥500 (from April 2024)
※ Cherry blossom season and autumn foliage season are the most popular times to visit. Early morning visits are recommended for a quieter and more peaceful experience.
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