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Kiyomizu-dera Temple

4.5 (200)Tourist AttractionPlace Of WorshipPoint Of InterestEstablishment

Kiyomizu-dera Temple, perched on the hills of eastern Kyoto, is a historical and architectural marvel that offers breathtaking views and a deep spiritual experience. This UNESCO World Heritage site, founded in the late 8th century, is named after the pure waters of the Otowa Waterfall running beneath its main hall.

The temple is famous for its vast wooden stage that juts out over the hillside, supported by hundreds of wooden pillars, showcasing an impressive feat of engineering without the use of a single nail. From this stage, you can soak in panoramic views of Kyoto, which are especially enchanting during the cherry blossom season or when the autumn leaves are ablaze with color.

Kiyomizu-dera is not just a feast for the eyes; it's a place steeped in tradition and spiritual practices. Visitors often drink from the temple's waterfall, believing the waters have wish-granting powers. The temple complex includes several other halls and pagodas, each with its own unique features and deities.

A visit to Kiyomizu-dera Temple is a journey through history, culture, and natural beauty, offering a glimpse into the heart of Japanese spirituality and an unforgettable experience of Kyoto's heritage.

Hours:

6:00 AM to 6:00 PM (until 18:30 in July and August)

Closed:

No closing days

Available:

All year

Minimum Age:

All ages are welcome 

Fees:

400 yen 


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
Phone
+81 75-551-1234
Website
www.kiyomizudera.or.jp

The area

Address
1-chōme-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0862, Japan

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What other travelers are saying about Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Nice temple and area over looking Kyoto. I enjoyed the street food and walk through the rustic town. You’ll need a half day at least to enjoy the temple and the city streets leading up and out of the temple. It gets extremely crowded. Go during weekday and avoid holidays.
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Val Chum
Mar 24, 2025
This is probably one of the must-visit spots if you go to Kyoto. The walk up here is great with lots of shops but it will be very busy so be prepared. You can get the tickets at the ticketing counter so don’t worry booking online. It’s only ¥500 and I noticed some websites sell them for more. There’s a few nice photo opportunities if you go in so if you like taking photos it’ll be worth paying and going in. Overall, definitely worth the visit! 💯
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Foodie in Brisbane
Mar 13, 2025
Worth the trip up. Best to go early in the morning. I got there around noon and it was overrun, which made the experience less peaceful but still worth it. It's a beautiful compound that's well landscaped. Take cash with you.
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N Maharaj
Apr 2, 2025
A Buddhist temple that was built centuries ago worth to visit. Was my FIRST time to Japan and this definitely must to visit regardless you are first timer or repeated visits. Just nice we were there to catch the cherry blooms as well. Will be back for this again. Thank you so much Japan.
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SnowAlex100
Apr 2, 2025
A floating shrine surrounded by red forests feels like stepping into a dreamlike, sacred world. The shrine itself, often painted in vivid vermilion, seems to hover gracefully over the water during high tide, its reflection shimmering in the still surface below. Beautiful and I don't suggest buying tickets. Just walk the opposite way of the red trees surrounding the track (of course we bought tickets) The surrounding red forest adds to the enchantment. In autumn, the trees blaze with fiery hues of scarlet, crimson, and orange, their vibrant colors contrasting beautifully with the tranquil blue of the water and the shrine’s striking architecture. Has a beautiful view of the city and tower in Kyoto.
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Tiger Liu
Dec 18, 2024

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