Kiyomizu-dera

The history of Kiyomizu-dera dates back approximately 1,250 years to the present day. Despite being struck by numerous major fires since its founding in 778, it has been rebuilt each time due to strong faith. During the medieval and early modern periods, it was a sub-temple of the Hossō sect's head temple, Kōfuku-ji, but in 1965 it became independent as the head temple of the Kitahossō sect. The name "Kiyomizu-dera" was given in reference to the purity of the Otowa waterfall's sound. In 1994, it was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as one of the cultural assets of the ancient capital of Kyoto.

If you're visiting Kiyomizu Temple, why not also visit the representative tourist spots of Kyoto around it? Gion, Yasaka Shrine, and Chion-in Temple, which are located around Kiyomizu Temple, are one of Kyoto's historically significant tourist spots. In addition, within walking distance from Kiyomizu Temple, there are also Ninen-zaka and Sannen-zaka, as well as Kodai-ji Temple. If you plan to visit these tourist attractions, it's recommended to get off at "Gion-Shijo Station" instead of "Kiyomizu-Gojo Station" closest to Kiyomizu Temple and take a course starting from Yasaka Shrine.

The "Kiyomizu no Butai" stage at Kiyomizu Temple is a popular spot within the temple. Part of the main hall, it offers a panoramic view of Kyoto from a height of about 18 meters. During the autumn foliage season, the red, yellow, and green gradient spreads over a vast area, making it an excellent match for the sunset. In winter, it's recommended to view the Kiyomizu no Butai, which is lightly covered in snow, from the outside, making it a popular photo spot.

The name of Kiyomizu-dera Temple comes from the "Otowa Waterfall." The clear water, which was once called "Golden Water" or "Longevity Water," has been flowing continuously since the temple's founding. The spring water that flows from the three-tiered Kakei is said to govern scholarship, love, and longevity, respectively, and it is believed that drinking from one of them will grant the wishes of visitors. You can visit the temple at any time of the year, but it is crowded with people seeking coolness in the summer.

Not only is the Kiyomizu Stage a highlight, but the "Niomon Gate," the main gate of Kiyomizu Temple, is also a must-see. The guardian dogs standing in front of the gate are slightly different from those at other temples; both of Kiyomizu Temple's guardian dogs are "Agyo" with their mouths open. When you pass through the gate, you'll be greeted by the vast grounds of Kiyomizu Temple and beautiful nature, which will calm your mind. Depending on the time of day you visit, the view of the gate changes, and at dusk, the gate shines in a brilliant vermilion color, adding to its beauty.