What other travelers are saying about Kiyomizudera Temple
Kiyomizu-dera temple itself is an icon and has plenty to see around it. It is surrounded by shifting swaths of color that frame the architecture any time of year. To think it was first built over a thousand years ago, the main hall stands four stories high without any nails. This is preceded by the Niomon gate and a three story pagoda in vermilion, both of which don't require am entry ticket. (Tickets are cash only). By the way, there's a wheelchair accessible path on the left of the Niomon gates which goes directly to the main hall entry.
On entering the main hall, you'll pass through an open air hallway with benches that you can sit at and just take in the view. The wooden columns beautifully frame the view. To the left, there's a queue of folks waiting to try their hand at lifting different weighted poles with promised prosperity.
The main hall has a queue for those wishing to enter and you'll be greeted by billowing incense smoke that is meant to waft in. It's breathtaking being on the main hall stage surrounded by foliage and views of the city in the distance. Below, you'll see the Ottawa Falls, where people can drink from one of three spouts that promise success one of three categories. You can the make your way across the way to join the many are gathered on a smaller platform to snap photos of the main hall. We enjoyed exploring this UNESCO heritage site and the surrounding Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka streets.
Kiyomizu-dera is renowned for its stunning architecture, historical significance, and spectacular views over Kyoto. The temple's main hall, with its large wooden stage that juts out over the hillside, is a feat of engineering from the Edo period, built without the use of nails. The site's cultural and historical value, along with its connection to Japanese spirituality and its picturesque setting, contribute to its fame.
Kiyomizu-dera occasionally opens its doors for special night viewings, particularly during the cherry blossom season in spring and the autumn leaves season. These night viewings are a unique opportunity to see the temple illuminated against the night sky, offering a different perspective from the daytime.
During special night viewing periods, the illumination usually begins after sunset and continues until around 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM. The exact times can vary, so it's best to check the temple's official website for the most current information.
A thorough visit to Kiyomizu-dera, including the main hall, surrounding shrines, and the Jishu Shrine dedicated to the deity of love and matchmaking, can take around 1 to 2 hours, depending on the crowd and how much time you spend at each spot.
Kiyomizu-dera is accessible by bus from Kyoto Station. You can take the city bus and get off at the Kiyomizu-michi or Gojo-zaka stop, then walk up the hill to the temple. While there's no direct train station nearby, the Keihan Line's Kiyomizu-Gojo Station is within walking distance, about a 20-minute walk to the temple.
We visited in mid January 2026 on a weekday. The crowds weren't as bad as we had been warned about. They were still sort of there but everything flowed smoothly, it was just a couple of minutes wait for the good photo spots, nothing major. Great views and photo spot. It's right near a fun street to shop around in on the way up with some smaller spots for food hidden away on second floors or through short alleyways. Had a good time.
Autumn at Kiyomizu-dera is absolutely stunning, and visiting during the peak maple leaf season means crowds are inevitable. Even so, the entrance ticket and the breathtaking scenery make it completely worth it.
We arrived at Kiyomizu-dera around noon on a weekday, but the number of visitors was no less than on a weekend. Sannenzaka was packed with people, so we chose a quieter side path instead. Along the way, we unexpectedly discovered a small embroidery gift shop with unique and beautifully crafted items.
As we made our way uphill, we explored several spots, drew a fortune and got daikichi (great luck), and even heard children playfully imitating crow calls, which added a lovely sense of life to the journey. The whole atmosphere felt perfect for unwinding and clearing the mind after a busy work schedule. Nice choice for annual leave.
That said, I would recommend starting earlier in the day to avoid the crowds and better enjoy the autumn leaves.
A stone-paved path (Sannenzaka) lined with shops and restaurants selling traditional products connects Kiyomizu-dera temple, Yasaka-jinja shrine, and Kodaji temple.
This is a beautiful place to walk and feel immersed in history. The area can get crowded but the crowds make it vibrant and enchanting. Many shops in Higashiyama close around 17:30-18:00; Kiyomizu-dera temple is therefore a great last stop where you can, after a day of touring and shopping and eating, enjoy golden hour setting upon the gorgeous architecture.
My favourite sight in Kyoto. Super crowded during our visit around 12.30pm on a Sunday. This is such a gorgeous temple with beautiful grounds. Can imagine how much more gorgeous the place is in spring or earlier 2 weeks ago during the autumn changing color. Even now, it looks so gorgeous and serene especially around the pond area. It was quite a way to walk in but interesting to see all the shops around. Strongly recommend to try the mochi mochi shop along Matsubara-Dori Street. For someone who doesn’t like mochi, this was really good, haha love the chocolate flavor. Great treat and beautiful sights!
