Introduction｜はじめに
Kiyomizu-dera is one of Kyoto’s most famous temples.
Its name comes from the pure water flowing from Mount Otowa.
The temple is especially known for its large wooden stage,
but beyond the beautiful scenery,
there is also a long history of prayer and worship.
🟫 MINI MEMO
Kiyomizu-dera was founded in 778.
It became part of the UNESCO World Heritage site
“Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto” in 1994.
Niōmon Gate｜仁王門
The large vermilion gate at the entrance
is called the Niōmon Gate.
It marks the boundary
between the everyday world
and the sacred temple grounds.
🟫 MINI MEMO
The vivid vermilion color
is traditionally believed to ward off evil.
Three-Storied Pagoda｜三重塔
The three-storied pagoda
rises high above the temple grounds.
It is one of the tallest pagodas in Kyoto
and can even be seen from far away.
🟫 PHOTO TIP
Morning and late afternoon light
often create especially beautiful colors around the pagoda.
Main Hall｜本堂
The Main Hall is the heart of Kiyomizu-dera.
Inside is enshrined
the Eleven-Faced Thousand-Armed Kannon.
🟫 REAL INFO
Please avoid loud conversations
inside prayer spaces.
Kiyomizu Stage｜清水の舞台
The famous wooden stage extends outward
from the Main Hall.
Supported by large wooden pillars,
it uses traditional wooden construction techniques.
🟫 MINI MEMO
The expression
“to jump from the stage of Kiyomizu”
comes from this structure.
Special Night Viewing｜夜間特別拝観
During spring, summer, and autumn,
special night illuminations are sometimes held.
The atmosphere becomes quieter and more dreamlike
than during the daytime.
🟫 PHOTO TIP
Blue evening skies
often create beautiful contrast with the illuminated buildings.
Otowa Waterfall｜音羽の滝
At the base of the Main Hall
flows Otowa Waterfall.
The water splits into three streams,
and many visitors stop here quietly.
🟫 MINI MEMO
The three streams are sometimes associated with:
academic success, love, and longevity.
Zuigudō Hall｜随求堂
Zuigudō is known for
“Tainai Meguri,”
a symbolic walk through darkness.
Visitors walk slowly inside
while holding a rope in complete darkness.
🟫 MINI MEMO
Zuigudō is known for its quiet atmosphere
and symbolic journey through darkness.
West Gate｜西門
The West Gate is connected with
the idea of the Western Pure Land in Buddhism.
Sunset views from here
have long been considered meaningful.
🟫 MINI MEMO
Sunset was once seen
as a symbolic connection to another world.
🟫 CAT MEMO 🐾
“The sunset here feels quiet…
like the whole city is slowing down.”
🗺 Google Map
The stage may be the most famous part.
But the quiet water and prayer spaces
may stay in your heart longer.
Thank you for visiting Kiyomizu-dera.
We hope this quiet Kyoto walk
brings you a peaceful moment too 🐾
🗺 Explore More Kyoto Areas
Kyoto is divided into several unique areas, each offering different attractions and experiences.
