Kiyomizu Temple during a light up in Autumn

Kiyomizu-dera (清水寺), officially Otowa-san Kiyomizu-dera (音羽山清水寺) is an independent Buddhist temple in eastern Kyoto. The temple is part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto (Kyoto, Uji and Otsu Cities) UNESCO World Heritage site.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple is one of Kyoto’s must-see attractions. It is always crowded and noisy with people, but it is really something.  Be sure not to miss the various sub-temples, the Pagoda, the fountain, and the Jishu Jinja Shrine (check out the Love Stone).

If you visit Kyoto either in November or April, be sure to go there by night during one of the light-ups – it’s spectacular either with the red, orange and yellow leaves or with the cherry blossoms. It is however always very crowded! 

 

Practical Info

English address: 1-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama-ku

 

Japanese address:: 東山区清水1-294

Opening hours: 6am- 5:30pm or 6:30pm depending on the season

Admission:

Adults: Yen 300

Junior and elementary school students: Yen 200

Nearest Transport: 10 min walk from Gojozaka or Kiyomizu-michi Bus Stop, Kyoto City Bus 100 or 206