Kiyomizu-dera Temple
temple
Kiyomizu-dera Temple
清水寺
Overview
Wooden hillside temple in eastern Kyoto, anchored by a 13-meter elevated stage on cypress pillars. Sakura on the slope late March to early April.
Hillside temple in eastern Kyoto, anchored by a 13-meter wooden stage built on cypress pillars without nails. The stage faces west, giving the strongest light at sunset and a long view across the city to the Western Hills. Beneath, three streams of the Otowa-no-taki waterfall serve three wishes (health, success, longevity), and you choose one. Approach via Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka, the two preserved Edo-era stone lanes that climb from Yasaka Pagoda.
Local tips
Visit just before sunset to watch the city bathe in golden light from the temple's expansive wooden deck.
Practical info
- Japanese name
- 清水寺
- Nearest station
- Kiyomizu-michi Bus Stop (10 min walk)
- Payment
- Cash only
- Reservations
- not required
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