Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Kiyomizu-dera Temple is a buddhist temple Kyoto located in Japan.

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東山区清水1-294 Kyoto , Kyōto 605-0862 Japan

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Keywords:

scenic views architecture autumn historic sites temple main hall landmarks flowers gardens hiking quiet tourism spacious walking trails tours ice cream world heritage crowded construction shrine
Simple Discoveries

This is a must-see in #Kyoto especially at sunset , but it's only open then 3x a year - so check listings. Sweeping views of the city with brilliant temple lighting. Entry fee of ~400¥.

Joshua Peters

Very crowded so arrive early, and 11am is not early. Beautiful temple that is partly under construction , but the walk up plus the adjoining temples make this a must see.

Clau????

Visit this temple as early as you can in the morning to avoid some crowds. Go to the golden Budda and make an offer, write your wish on the wood stick and deposit it in the wooden box.

Kit&kafoodle

My favourite temple in Kyoto, maybe even Japan. Currently undergoing restoration so the beautiful photo worthy shot is a bit marred, still a lovely walk with scenery, temples and shopping strip.

Sofia Papastamelos

The views here were breathtaking on the sunny April day we were here. Even with the roof under construction it’s worth walking around and enjoying the structure and nature.

Yohan Gabriel Liutama

Beautiful temple to be. Best to come early or you will have difficulty catching those wonderful photos. Only ¥400 per pax. Oh and get your hands on those mochies and matcha-chestnut ice creams !

J-OSL

One of the world heritage temple in Kyoto, incredibly built in ancient time. I prayed & made a wish before walking around to have nice snapshots of temple with the red leaves in autumn .

Lauren Bates

Incredible temple , and worth the hike ! Give yourself time to explore the area. This is a good spot to start your day with, but get here early to avoid crowds.

Connie Chiu

The walk up to the temple is lined with markets and food stalls so it gets a bit crowded but it's super cool. The temple area is great for viewing but you need to buy tickets to go further.

Dan Castellano

Try to get here as early as possible (opens at 6am) to avoid the crowds and maybe even catch a beautiful sunrise

etta y

Gorgeous temple atop a steep hill . Wear comfy shoes and come with wishes that you want granted by the numerous deities that frequent this spot. Cute touristy shops line the path with good eats.

Steve Zhang

One of the most famous landmarks of Kyoto is Kiyomizu-dera. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and also one of the finalist for the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007

uni uni

Amazing place of the combination of nature and people's creativity based on history. This is really worth name of world heritage .

Diegoberto Bellamy

Full of people. One of Kyoto’s main attractions . Don’t forget to wash your hands with the sacred water, but just from one stream, because I read that is considered greedy to wash from all three.

CL

Cool to explore, if you hit early to enjoy the whole site you'd have a nice walk down from the wooden shopping area town . Very ancient Japan!

Souri So

My favourite place in kyoto with a very traditional neighborhood on the way to the temple and an amazing view on Kyoto up there

Stephanie Ge

They had a night viewing opportunity (seasonal) when I visited in November. One of my favorite experiences in Japan!

Dan Mondragón Somera

Really liked it! A bit of a hike but you get distracted watching all the shops around. You can pay a small fee and cross the temple to the other side (of the road )

National Geographic Traveller (UK)

Its statues of razor-toothed lions guard red pagodas and sacred waterfalls , all set against a velvet-forested mountainside. Its huge veranda offers city views that any warrior would feel at ease with. Read more

Ryan Bright

Very packed during the day, so come early. Views are best when the autumn leaves are turning. The walking trails outside the temple are calm and have great views of the landscapes and temple itself.

Edwin Shao

Spectacular views over the city and sip from the waterfall nearby. Back in the Edo period people believed that whoever jumped from the 13m high cliff and survived would have their wish granted. Read more

etta y

Gorgeous, crowded , and a must-see. Wear good shoes here and while sightseeing in Kyoto in general. It's a hike .

Steve Zhang

From Kyoto station, take the 206 bus to Kiyomizu-michi or Gojozaka.From other areas, take the bus to Kiyomizu-michi or Gojozaka (large bus stop on maps)

Roger Chu

Make sure to do the walk through the bowls of the temple . It’s an amazing experience. Take your time and let the darkness cleanse your mind.

Steph Kudus

Under renovation at the moment but still a great sight. Definitely do the walk between two love rocks and 求签!

Fluying ✅

Don't miss the followings : 1.Golden Kannon 2. the stone Budhas 3. The views of Kyoto 3. The pagoda

Tom Van Goylen

Definitely worth visiting but expect a big crowd even on weekdays. Like all of Japan's temples , it is best enjoyed during spring or autumn .

Elena Kiseleva

If you are here when the temple is opened in the late evening (it happens 3 times per year), then you are really lucky. It's difficult to compare this experience with anything else.

Steve Zhang

Tourists flock the street, looking for souvenirs to bring back home. Kimonos, yukatas, keychains, fridge magnets, handphone straps, folding fans or even the local snacks

The Baladons

Take in the views from the veranda - http://www.greenshinto.com/wp/2011/10/01/kyotos-love-connection-jishu-jinja/ - After this area head to Ishibei Lane http://www.insidekyoto.com/ishibei-koji-lane

budi santosa

great color paint and sight seeing.. and we can find souvenir at street around the temple

Artyom Fedosov

The name Kiyomizu-dera means Pure Water Temple . There is a stream at the base of main hall , where visitors can drink water using cups. And, of course, stunning view on Kyoto and surrounding mountains .

Eh Aufait

It is worth the visit as you will enjoy the refined nature, beautiful complex building, breathtaking views overlooking the city .

Kelsey Gilbert-Kreiling

Busy place! Main temple is under construction as of April 2019, but still a beautiful view of Kyoto

Edwin Shao

View the city of Kyoto from this hilltop temple and take a sip from the Otowa waterfall flowing from beneath the main hall , known to grant wishes to those who drink it.

R U S S

On the way to the shrine , there are small shops that rent out Kimonos for ¥3000. Rental is good for the whole day.

Diego Reynoso

Beautiful temple , great shopping on the side streets

Steve Zhang

It's main attraction is the veranda , which extends out from its main hall , 13 meters above the hillside below. Supported by wooden pillars, not a single nail was used in the construction

Andres Novoa

The Tainai-meguri before you actually get to the main stage is an amazing, spiritual experience! It's easy to miss so be on the lookout!

Jess C

Incredibly beautiful place, definitely worth a visit if you are in kyoto

K B

You can see most of the temple from the grounds for free. It’s not really worth paying the entrance fee for the main hall while the main altar and terrace are covered with scaffolding.

Steven Grimm

Mobbed during the day. If you like your temples serene and meditative , probably best to show up first thing in the morning.

Jess Kono

a beauty. Easy enough walk with lots to see. There are lots of relationship/love temples to pray with

Almog Tlumak

Don't miss the autumn illumination ! It's breathtaking ! Continue till mid December..

K Malevich

Get you love-life predictions here. Separate area devoted to love myths, spirits & stones.

Lisa Starbucks

Beautiful temple high up where you have a perfect view over Kyoto. Lots of people though ????????‍♀️

Julia Grando

My favorite place in Kyoto, the sunset is amazing and the streets around are really pretty.

Jessalynne Peters

An amazing temple with lots to see and do! A must for anyone visiting Kyoto.

YC Cheah

Lovely greenery & well kept garden . Super Insta-worthy. Enjoy a relaxing stroll here

Nadyne Richmond

In the spring, the temple is open late . Sunset is beautiful, as are the temple and grounds.

Similar places nearby :

9.2
Buddhist Temple
The Stage of Kiyomizu

It takes its name from the waterfall within the complex, which runs off the nearby hills. Kiyomizu means clear water/pure water.The stages is the access into the temple of Kyomizu-Dera#TravelingKyoto - A Hazet

9.1
Historic and Protected Site
Niomon Gate

Best to come here early morning to avoid crowds. The ground level was under construction when we visited but the neighboring areas are quite picturesque. Don’t miss the hot custard/red bean pancakes. - Vasu

8.7
Shrine
Jishu Shrine

Good chill walk, and its famous Love stone would draw your attention - CL