Founded in 778, Kiyomizu-dera is a historic Buddhist temple with roots dating back to the Nara period (710–794). The temple complex covers approximately 130,000 square meters on the slopes of Mount Otowa in Kyoto’s Higashiyama district.
The main hall, rebuilt in 1633 during the Edo period, is designated a National Treasure. Famous for its large wooden terrace known as the “Stage of Kiyomizu,” the temple is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto.
Visitors approaching the temple along Kiyomizu-zaka Street will encounter the impressive Niomon Gate. Beyond it stand several historically significant structures, including the West Gate, a three-story pagoda, the bell tower, the North Gate, and the Okunoin Hall. Many of these buildings are designated Important Cultural Properties of Japan.
The temple’s main hall was reconstructed in 1633. Its expansive wooden terrace projects dramatically out over the mountainside, supported by a framework of wooden pillars assembled without the use of nails.
The terrace is the origin of the Japanese expression “to jump off the Stage of Kiyomizu,” which describes taking a bold risk or making a momentous decision. From this elevated platform, visitors can look down over the hillside and enjoy sweeping views of Kyoto City.
Below the cliffs near the Okunoin Hall lies Otowa Waterfall, whose sacred waters gave Kiyomizu-dera its name. The water is traditionally associated with blessings and is also known as “Golden Water” and “Water of Longevity.”
The waterfall is associated with Fudo Myoo, a revered Buddhist deity. Its water flows down in three separate streams, and visitors use long-handled ladles to collect the water while praying for blessings. This popular ritual attracts long queues throughout the year.
Kiyomizu-dera is one of Kyoto’s most celebrated destinations for viewing cherry blossoms in spring and colorful autumn leaves in fall.
The temple offers different atmospheres depending on the season and time of day. Whether surrounded by fresh spring blossoms, lush summer greenery, or brilliant autumn foliage, visitors can enjoy the changing beauty of Kyoto’s natural landscape.
Within the temple grounds is Jishu Shrine, a shrine that historically had a close relationship with Kiyomizu-dera but was established as an independent Shinto shrine following the separation of Buddhism and Shinto in Japan.
The shrine stands on elevated ground directly north of the temple’s main hall. According to its own traditions, its origins date back to the age of the gods, before the legendary founding of Japan.
The area is closely connected with the origins of Kiyomizu-dera and the sacred waters of Otowa Waterfall. The shrine is believed to have developed as a place of mountain worship and religious devotion, where local deities were enshrined.
Jishu Shrine is particularly famous as a place to pray for good relationships and romantic fulfillment. It has long been popular with young women and couples, especially for its two well-known “love fortune-telling stones,” which are associated with finding true love.
Opening time: 6:00 a.m.
Closing time 18:00
(during special nighttime viewing periods) 21:30
Open all year round
Adults: 300 yen
Children: 200 yen (elementary and junior high school students)
From JR Kyoto Station
Take Kyoto City Transportation Bureau (city bus) No. 206 to Higashiyama-dori Kitaoji Bus Terminal or No. 100 to Kiyomizu-dera Gion Ginkaku-dera, get off at Gojozaka bus stop and walk 10 minutes.
Take Kyoto Bus (available only on weekends and holidays) No. 18 to Ohara, get off at Gojozaka bus stop and walk 10 minutes.