One of the best travel destinations in Kyoto
Kiyomizu-dera Temple, one of Kyoto’s most famous landmarks, was originally established in 778. The buildings have burned down many times, and most of the current structures were rebuilt around 1633. Many people used to jump off the stage in front of the main hall in the belief that if they dedicated their lives to Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy, and she saved them, she would grant their wishes. This practice has been banned for centuries, so please do not jump off!
For more than a millennium, many people have come to pray here, and there are now many cafés, restaurants, and souvenir shops along the paths to the temple. I highly recommend taking a walk between Kiyomizu-dera and Maruyama Park/Yasaka-jinjya Shrine to experience old Kyoto. Sannenzaka is a famous street. You can enjoy shopping, dining, or taking a break to drink matcha green tea.
Best time to visit
The cherry blossoms are beautiful from late March to early April, and the autumn leaves are also stunning from late November to early December. During these seasons, the temple is open in the evening so visitors can enjoy the illuminated cherry blossoms and autumn leaves. Please check the official Kiyomizu-dera Temple website for specific dates. For more information on Kiyomizu-dera and other places to visit in autumn, check out my Autumn in Kyoto page.
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Access
Bus from Kyoto Station:
Departing from D1 bus stop, EX100 and EX101 are quickest but run only on weekend and holidays. Get off at Gojyouzaka (五条坂）
Departing from D2 bus stop, take 86, 106, 206. These buses run daily. Get off at Gojyouzaka (五条坂), or Kiyomizu-michi(清水道).
ADDRESS1-294, Kiyomizu, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, 605-0862, Japan