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Scenic view of Kiyomizu-dera Temple surrounded by lush greenery in Kyoto, Japan.
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Kiyomizu-dera

Kyoto, Japan
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japan, kyoto, kiyomizu-dera, japanese, nature, asia, landmark, travel, famous, architecture, temple, tourism, summer, sky, ancient

Photo by Michelle_Pitzel

Imagine stepping onto the bustling streets of Kyoto, where the air carries the mixed scents of incense from ancient temples and sweet treats from local teahouses. As you weave through the lively crowd, a journey up to the serene heights of Kiyomizu-dera awaits. This seventh-century temple, perched on the edge of a hill, offers not just a spiritual getaway but a panoramic view of Kyoto that captures the heart of any traveler.

Visiting Info

Currency
Entrance fee
400 JPY
Hours
Opening hours
Monday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Thursday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Contact Information

Location
Address
1 Chome-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0862, Japan
Phone
Website

Planning your visit

Organizing a trip to this historic temple is as serene as the site itself. The best time to capture the beauty of Kiyomizu-dera without the hustle is either early morning or late evening. Board a bus from Kyoto Station which whisks you near to the temple grounds, followed by a quaint uphill walk. Anticipate some crowds, especially during cherry blossom season, but the view and the auspicious atmosphere make every minute worth it.

  • Best time to visit: Early morning or late evening
  • How to get there: Bus from Kyoto Station, followed by a short walk
  • Accessibility: Challenging for those with mobility issues due to steps and slopes
  • Average visit duration: 2 to 3 hours

Must see stuff

The standout features of Kiyomizu-dera are many, but the main hall with its large wooden stage offers breathtaking views of the cherry and maple trees below, which dramatically change colors with the seasons. Don't miss the Jishu Shrine dedicated to the deity of love and matchmaking, found behind the main hall. A walk down the Otowa Waterfall, where visitors drink for health, longevity, and success in studies, is a must.

  • Key sights: Main hall, Otowa Waterfall, Jishu Shrine
  • Unique experiences: Drinking from the Otowa Waterfall
  • Photo-worthy locations: The wooden stage of the main hall
  • Cultural facts: The temple is part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto UNESCO World Heritage site.

Tips for your visit

For an optimal experience, here's some insider advice. Aim for a weekday visit to avoid crowds. Essentials to pack include a camera for sure, and wear comfortable walking shoes as there's a bit of a trek and many steps. Respect the sacred nature of Kiyomizu-dera by keeping noise levels low and adhere to posted rules about photography in sacred spaces.

  • Best times to avoid crowds: Weekdays
  • What to bring: Water, camera, walking shoes
  • Local etiquette: Quiet behavior, no photography in designated areas
  • Safety and comfort: Be prepared for a lot of walking and steps
Kiyomizu-dera – Tickets, Hours & Visitor Guide