Kiyomizu-dera: Kyoto's Iconic Pure Water Temple

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Explore Kiyomizu-dera, Kyoto's historic temple with stunning views, sacred waterfalls, and ancient traditions. A must-see UNESCO World Heritage site.

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Kiyomizu-dera

Kiyomizu-dera, or 'Pure Water Temple,' is a renowned Buddhist temple in eastern Kyoto, founded in 778. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it's famous for its wooden stage offering panoramic city views and the Otowa Waterfall, whose waters are believed to have healing properties.

A brief summary to Kiyomizu-dera

1 Chome-294 Kiyomizu, Kyoto, 1 Chome Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0862, JP
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Monday 6 am-6 pm
Tuesday 6 am-6 pm
Wednesday 6 am-6 pm
Thursday 6 am-6 pm
Friday 6 am-6 pm
Saturday 6 am-6 pm
Sunday 6 am-6 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Kiyomizu-dera.

Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a 10-minute uphill walk from the bus stop to the temple entrance.
Check the temple's website for special evening illuminations, offering a different perspective.
Try the Otowa Waterfall's water, but choose wisely, as drinking from all three streams is considered greedy.
Explore the shops and restaurants lining Kiyomizu-zaka and Sannen-zaka streets leading to the temple.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From Kyoto Station, take bus number 100 or 206 from the north exit. The ride to Gojo-zaka or Kiyomizu-michi bus stop takes about 15 minutes and costs ¥230. From either bus stop, it's a 10-minute uphill walk to Kiyomizu-dera. Alternatively, take the JR Nara Line to Tofukuji Station, then transfer to the Keihan Railway and get off at Kiyomizu-Gojo Station. From there, it's a 20-25 minute walk to the temple.
Taxi

A taxi from Kyoto Station to Kiyomizu-dera takes approximately 10-20 minutes, depending on traffic. The fare is around ¥1,500. Note that during peak seasons, there may be a queue for taxis.
Walking

It is possible to walk from Kyoto Station to Kiyomizu-dera. Head east, cross the Kamo River, and follow the signs towards Higashiyama. The walk is approximately 3.5 km and takes around 40-50 minutes. Note that the final approach to the temple involves an uphill climb.

Discover more about Kiyomizu-dera

Kiyomizu-dera, officially Otowa-san Kiyomizu-dera, has a history stretching back over 1200 years. Founded in 778 by Enchin Shonin, the temple's origins are linked to the sacred Otowa Waterfall and a vision he received. In 798, Sakanoue Tamuramaro enhanced the site, incorporating a hall from Emperor Kammu's palace. The temple transitioned in 1965 to become the head temple of the Kita-Hosso sect.Most of the current structures date back to 1633, rebuilt by Tokugawa Iemitsu. The main hall houses a statue of the eleven-faced, thousand-armed Kannon. Kiyomizu-dera's wooden stage, constructed without nails, provides stunning views, especially during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons. Below the main hall, the Otowa Waterfall offers three streams of water, each believed to grant different benefits: longevity, success, and a good love life. Jishu Shrine, dedicated to the deity of love and matchmaking, features two stones 18 meters apart; successfully navigating between them is said to bring good fortune in love. The Koyasu Pagoda, a three-storied structure, is associated with safe childbirth. Kiyomizu-dera is a vibrant blend of history, faith, and natural beauty.