Kiyomizu-dera: Kyoto's Temple on the Wooden Stage
How to visit Kiyomizu-dera: the famous wooden stage, the Otowa waterfall, the best time to beat the crowds and the old streets below.
Quick answer
- What it is: one of Kyoto's oldest and most famous temples, founded in 778.
- Famous for: a huge wooden stage jutting out from the main hall, high above the trees.
- Status: part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto.
- Time needed: 1 hour for the temple, plus time for the old streets below.
- Best time: opening time, or the special evening illuminations in spring, summer and autumn.
Kiyomizu-dera's main hall stands on a hillside, held up by a forest of wooden pillars. From its great stage you look out over a sea of trees to the city of Kyoto beyond.
Why Kiyomizu-dera is a wonder
Kiyomizu-dera means 'pure water temple', after the spring that still flows through its grounds. The temple dates back to 778, and the present main hall was built in 1633.
Its stage is supported by a lattice of tall zelkova pillars, fitted together without nails. Japanese people say 'jump off the stage of Kiyomizu' when they mean taking a bold leap of faith.
The Otowa waterfall
Below the main hall, three thin streams of spring water fall into a pool. Visitors use long-handled cups to drink from one of them.
Each stream is said to bring a different blessing: long life, success in study, or luck in love. Drinking from all three is considered greedy.
Around the temple
| Spot | What you see | Time (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Niomon gate | The bright vermilion entrance gate | 5 minutes |
| Main hall and stage | Sweeping views over Kyoto | 20 minutes |
| Okunoin viewpoint | The classic view back to the stage | 10 minutes |
| Otowa waterfall | Three streams of sacred spring water | 15 minutes |
| Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka | Old lanes of wooden shops and tea houses | 30 to 60 minutes |
When to go
- Opening time: the calmest time to stand on the stage.
- Spring and autumn: cherry blossoms and red maples surround the stage, with big crowds.
- Evening illuminations: special night openings light up the temple in certain seasons.
- Avoid: late morning and afternoon on weekends, when the approach streets are packed.
Our tip: Walk down through Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka towards Yasaka Pagoda after your visit. The lanes are prettiest early in the morning before the shops open.
Getting there
- By bus: city buses from Kyoto Station stop at Gojozaka or Kiyomizu-michi, followed by an uphill walk of 10 to 15 minutes.
- By train: Kiyomizu-Gojo Station on the Keihan Line is about a 25 minute walk.
- On foot: from Gion, it is a pleasant 20 to 30 minute walk through Higashiyama.
Temple etiquette
- Wait your turn at the Otowa waterfall and drink from only one stream.
- Return the cups to the sterilising rack after use.
- Keep to the paths, especially around the stage, which gets very crowded.
- Dress for walking: the approach is steep and uneven.
Frequently asked questions
Is Kiyomizu-dera's stage built without nails?
Yes. The stage and its supporting pillars are fitted together with traditional joinery rather than nails.
What is the Otowa waterfall?
Three streams of spring water below the main hall. Each is said to bring a different blessing, and visitors drink from one.
How long do you need at Kiyomizu-dera?
About an hour for the temple, plus extra time to explore the old streets below.
When is Kiyomizu-dera least crowded?
Right at opening time in the morning, especially on weekdays.
Senso-ji
Tokyo's oldest temple, entered through the giant Thunder Gate.
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