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Kiyomizu Kannon-dō Temple: Ueno Park's Tranquil Gem

Discover tranquility at Kiyomizu Kannon-dō Temple in Ueno Park, a historic Buddhist sanctuary with beautiful architecture and serene views.

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Kiyomizu Kannon-dō Temple, nestled in Ueno Park, is a charming Buddhist temple dating back to 1631. Modeled after Kyoto's famed Kiyomizu-dera, it offers a serene escape with its distinctive architecture and cultural significance. The temple is dedicated to Kannon, the bodhisattva of mercy, and is a popular spot for mothers praying for safe childbirth and child rearing.

A brief summary to Kiyomizu Kannon-dō Temple

  • Monday 9 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during cherry blossom season (late March-early April) for stunning views of the temple amidst blooming sakura.
  • Look for the 'Moon Pine' (Tsuki no Matsu), a uniquely shaped pine tree featured in famous ukiyo-e prints.
  • Combine your visit with other Ueno Park attractions like Ueno Zoo and various museums.
  • If you are hoping to conceive, protective charms and amulets are sold at the temple.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Ueno Station's Park Exit, walk into Ueno Park. Follow the main path through the park, passing by the Ueno Royal Museum and the Saigo Takamori Statue. Continue east towards Shinobazu Pond. Kiyomizu Kannon-dō is located on a small hill overlooking the pond. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Ginza or Hibiya subway line to Ueno Station. Exit through the Park Exit. Alternatively, take the JR Yamanote Line to Ueno Station. Follow the walking directions from the Park Exit to reach Kiyomizu Kannon-dō Temple. Subway fare from Tokyo Station to Ueno Station is approximately ¥160.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available around Ueno Station. From Ueno Station, a short taxi ride to Kiyomizu Kannon-dō Temple within Ueno Park will cost approximately ¥730 - ¥1000, depending on traffic. Ask the driver to drop you off near the Ueno Royal Museum, from where you can walk to the temple.

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Discover more about Kiyomizu Kannon-dō Temple

Kiyomizu Kannon-dō Temple, a hall dedicated to Kannon, is located within Ueno Park in Tokyo. It's not a standalone temple but rather a hall of the larger Toeizan Kan'ei-ji temple complex. Founded in 1631 by Tenkai, a high-ranking priest, the temple was conceived as a place of prayer and relaxation for the common people of Edo, mirroring Kyoto's scenic beauty. The temple's design, with its overhanging stage, echoes Kyoto's Kiyomizu-dera, offering visitors a similar elevated perspective. Originally situated on Suribachi-yama hill, the temple was relocated in 1694 to accommodate the construction of Kan'ei-ji's main hall. Kiyomizu Kannon-dō is one of the few structures in Ueno Park to have survived the Boshin War and World War II. The temple is dedicated to Senju-Kannon Bosatsu and Kosodate-Kannon. The main deity, the Thousand-Armed Kannon Bodhisattva, is said to have been carved by Eshin Sozu and was originally enshrined at Kiyomizu-dera in Kyoto. The statue is only unveiled to the public once a year. A highlight is the 'Moon Pine' (Tsuki no Matsu), a pine tree trained into a circular shape. This unique feature was immortalized in ukiyo-e prints by Hiroshige, adding to the temple's historical charm. From the temple's platform, visitors can enjoy views of Shinobazu Pond and Benten-dō Temple through the Moon Pine's circle. Today, Kiyomizu Kannon-dō stands as an Important Cultural Property, inviting visitors to appreciate its history, architecture, and tranquil atmosphere.

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