What other travelers are saying about Kiyomizu-dera Temple
My favourite sight in Kyoto. Super crowded during our visit around 12.30pm on a Sunday. This is such a gorgeous temple with beautiful grounds. Can imagine how much more gorgeous the place is in spring or earlier 2 weeks ago during the autumn changing color. Even now, it looks so gorgeous and serene especially around the pond area. It was quite a way to walk in but interesting to see all the shops around. Strongly recommend to try the mochi mochi shop along Matsubara-Dori Street. For someone who doesn’t like mochi, this was really good, haha love the chocolate flavor. Great treat and beautiful sights!
We visited Kiyomizu-dera around 14:00, which I now realise is probably one of the busiest times of the day — it was extremely crowded. But honestly, even with the sea of people around us, the temple still managed to feel special.
Walking up the slope and finally seeing the main hall appear between the trees gave me such a wow moment. The views from the wooden terrace were incredible — you really feel like you’re floating above Kyoto. The autumn colors around the temple made everything even more beautiful. I kept stopping just to take it in.
Yes, the crowds were intense, but the atmosphere was so lively that it somehow added to the charm. Everyone around us seemed excited and happy to be there, and it made the whole visit feel energetic rather than stressful. We took our time, enjoyed the scenery, and it ended up being completely worth it.
If you’re in Kyoto, you absolutely shouldn’t skip Kiyomizu-dera. Even at its busiest, it’s one of those places that stays with you long after you leave.
A breathtaking experience! Kiyomizu-dera offers stunning scenery that captures the essence of Kyoto’s beauty. The temple itself is magnificent, with panoramic views that are especially enchanting at sunset. Getting here is easy—transportation is convenient and well-connected, making the visit stress-free.
What makes the area even more delightful are the countless friendly shops and vendors surrounding the temple. From traditional crafts to delicious local snacks, the streets are full of charm and perfect for strolling. It’s not just a temple visit—it’s an immersive cultural journey where every corner has something to discover.
Highly recommended for anyone visiting Kyoto. Kiyomizu-dera is both a spiritual landmark and a shopper’s paradise!
Kiyomizu-dera is one of Kyoto’s most iconic and breathtaking temples, and visiting it feels like stepping into a postcard. The approach through the charming streets of Higashiyama sets the tone—traditional shops, soft lantern lights, and the steady climb make the entire experience memorable even before you reach the gates. Once inside, the beauty of the vibrant vermillion pagodas and temple structures immediately stands out. The highlight, of course, is the famous wooden stage that dramatically juts out from the hillside. From here, the panoramic view of Kyoto is simply stunning, especially during autumn when the entire valley glows red and orange, or in spring when cherry blossoms frame the scenery.
The temple grounds are quite extensive, with multiple halls, small shrines, and paths that wind through serene forested areas. Jishu Shrine, dedicated to love and matchmaking, adds a fun cultural element, while the Otowa Waterfall at the base lets you drink from streams believed to bring health, longevity, or academic success.
Kiyomizu-dera can get very crowded, but the atmosphere never feels overwhelming—there’s a certain calmness that balances the energy of visitors. Whether for spiritual significance, history, architecture, or photography, this temple truly delivers. It’s a must-visit attraction that captures the timeless charm of Kyoto.
Kiyomizu-dera temple itself is an icon and has plenty to see around it. It is surrounded by shifting swaths of color that frame the architecture any time of year. To think it was first built over a thousand years ago, the main hall stands four stories high without any nails. This is preceded by the Niomon gate and a three story pagoda in vermilion, both of which don't require am entry ticket. (Tickets are cash only). By the way, there's a wheelchair accessible path on the left of the Niomon gates which goes directly to the main hall entry.
On entering the main hall, you'll pass through an open air hallway with benches that you can sit at and just take in the view. The wooden columns beautifully frame the view. To the left, there's a queue of folks waiting to try their hand at lifting different weighted poles with promised prosperity.
The main hall has a queue for those wishing to enter and you'll be greeted by billowing incense smoke that is meant to waft in. It's breathtaking being on the main hall stage surrounded by foliage and views of the city in the distance. Below, you'll see the Ottawa Falls, where people can drink from one of three spouts that promise success one of three categories. You can the make your way across the way to join the many are gathered on a smaller platform to snap photos of the main hall. We enjoyed exploring this UNESCO heritage site and the surrounding Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka streets.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple is famous for its impressive wooden stage that juts out from the main hall, 13 meters above the hillside below, offering stunning views of the cherry and maple trees below, which change dramatically with the seasons. The temple is also renowned for its clear spring water, which is believed to have healing properties, and its association with the Kannon Bodhisattva, a deity of compassion.
The entrance fee for Kiyomizu-dera is typically around 400 yen for adults. There may be different rates for children, students, and seniors, and prices can vary if there are special exhibitions or events.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple was founded in the early Heian period. The temple dates back to 778 AD, although many of its current buildings were reconstructed in 1633 after a fire.
Kiyomizu-dera's history is deeply intertwined with the history of Kyoto and Japanese Buddhism. It was founded in 778 by the monk Enchin, with the main hall constructed in 1633. The temple is associated with the Hosso sect of Japanese Buddhism and has survived many historical events, including wars and natural disasters, albeit with numerous reconstructions.
The best time to visit Kiyomizu-dera is in the morning soon after it opens to avoid the crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons. The temple typically opens at 6:00 AM, but hours can vary, so it's recommended to check the latest information before your visit.
