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Kiyomizudera Temple

Name: Kiyomizudera Temple
Address: 1-chōme-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0862, Japan
Rating: 4.5

4.5 (200)・Tourist Attraction・Place Of Worship・Point Of Interest・Establishment

Kiyomizu-dera, a historic temple in Kyoto, is famous for its wooden stage that juts out from the main hall, about 13 meters above the hillside below. This structure allows visitors a stunning view of the cherry and maple trees below, which bloom spectacularly in spring and autumn, respectively. The temple, dating back to 778, has not used a single nail in its construction, a testament to traditional Japanese craftsmanship.

The name 'Kiyomizu-dera' translates to 'Pure Water Temple,' derived from the Otowa Waterfall running beneath its grounds. Visitors often drink this water, believing it has wish-granting powers. The site is also known for the Jishu Shrine dedicated to Ōkuninushi, a god of love and matchmaking, where visitors can try walking between two stones placed 18 meters apart with their eyes closed to secure luck in finding love.

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Kiyomizu-dera is not only a place of worship but a significant cultural landmark, reflecting centuries of religious devotion and architectural ingenuity. This makes it a key destination for those exploring Kyoto's rich historical tapestry.

Hours:

6:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Year-round)

Closed:

No closing days

Available:

All year

Minimum Age:

All ages welcome

Fees:

Adults: 400 yen

Student: 200 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

Top ways to experience Kiyomizudera Temple

3hrs

Exploring Serenity: Kyoto Tea Ceremony and Kiyomizu-dera Temple Walking Tour

From $91 /person

8hrs

Private Kyoto Old Town and Temple Tour with Full-Day Guide

From $221 /person

1hr and 40mins

Explore Kyoto: Skyhop Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Ticket

From $24 /person

What other travelers are saying about Kiyomizudera Temple

I have been here twice in the past 10 years. Both times have been fantastic. I understand reasons for price hikes to come, and I support them fully. I saw a lot of tourists taking photos where they should not be, and leaning on structures they should not. The difference between folks being courteous from a decade ago vs recently was like night and day, and I feel it was because before, it was mostly Japanese countrymen visiting and now tourists are running rampant. I still love the views. We were lucky to be able to come during an auspicious time when a rare shrine was open. The spiritual power within there was reverbating and filled us with energy. Love this shrine and hope it continues to get all the love and respect it deserves.

Vincent

Mar 15, 2025

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.

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! 💯

Foodie in Brisbane

Mar 13, 2025

We went on Wed about 4pm. Took bus 106 from Kyoto Bus Station and it was super packed with tourists. You will need to climb up slope to reach the temple and the street is filled with many shops as well as tourists. Entering the front part of the temple is free but you need to pay 500Y to access the back portion where the famous views are taken. Overall is just too crowded. While the view is nice, I feel that it's not worth it to be squeezing with so many people.

Jean

Jan 29, 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.