Kiyomizu-dera, meaning “Pure Water Temple,” was founded in 778 CE during the late Nara Period and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994 as part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto. The temple is a quintessential symbol of Japanese devotional Buddhism, harmoniously integrated with the natural landscape of Mount Otowa.

Most of the structures seen today—especially the Main Hall (Hondo), designated a National Treasure of Japan—were reconstructed in 1633 under the patronage of Tokugawa Iemitsu after a major fire. The most iconic feature is the wooden veranda known as Kiyomizu no Butai, projecting approximately 13 meters above the cliff, offering sweeping views of Kyoto and the surrounding Higashiyama forest.

Architecturally, the temple is celebrated for its use of the Kake-zukuri construction method, a cliff-building technique supported by 139 massive Japanese zelkova (keyaki) pillars. The entire structure is assembled through intricate wooden joinery without the use of metal nails, allowing natural flexibility and exceptional resistance to earthquakes. The roof is thatched with layered hinoki cypress bark (Hiwadabuki), a craft requiring master artisans and renewed every 30–50 years. The most recent major restoration was completed in 2020, revealing the structure in its finest condition in decades.

Enshrined within the Main Hall is the revered Eleven-Faced, Thousand-Armed Kannon (Juichimen Senju Kannon), a manifestation of compassion worshipped for over a millennium. Pilgrims have long visited the temple seeking protection, healing, and spiritual reassurance.

The temple’s name derives from the Otowa Waterfall, whose three streams symbolize blessings for wisdom and academic success, love and relationships, and health and longevity. According to traditional belief, visitors should drink from only one stream, reflecting the Buddhist principle of moderation and contentment.

Approaching the temple via Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka is itself a cultural journey. These preserved stone-paved streets, lined with traditional wooden townhouses, form a historic pilgrimage route, marking the transition from the secular world into a sacred Buddhist space.

• From Kyoto Station:

  • Take city bus No. 100 or 206

  • Get off at Gojo-zaka or Kiyomizu-michi

  • Walk uphill for approximately 10–15 minutes

• Recommended Route: Walk through Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka to experience Kyoto’s historic townscape.

• Avoid crowds: The temple opens at 6:00 AM—early morning visits are ideal for photography and quiet contemplation.

• Hidden photo spot: The best panoramic view of the Main Hall is from Koyasu Pagoda, located across the valley.

• Current status: Jishu Shrine (the matchmaking shrine) is under long-term renovation, but the main temple grounds remain fully accessible.

• Footwear: Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the approach involves slopes and stairways.

Admission Fee:

• Adults: 400 yen

• Children (elementary & junior high): 200 yen

Important Notes on Fees:

• Special Night Openings (Light-up):
  During the special night illumination periods (Spring/Cherry Blossoms and Autumn/Red Leaves), the fee remains the same (400 yen), but please note that the temple usually clears the grounds around 5:30 PM and re-opens for the night session starting at 6:00 PM.

• Payment Method:
  Most temples in Kyoto, including Kiyomizu-dera, primarily accept cash (Japanese Yen). It is always safer to have physical coins or bills ready at the ticket counter.

• The Ticket Itself:
  Keep your ticket! The admission tickets at Kiyomizu-dera are famous for being bookmarks that change their design according to the four seasons (Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter). They make a great free souvenir.

Opening Time:

• Regular hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

• Seasonal night illuminations (spring & autumn): Open until approximately 9:00 PM