Kiyomizu-dera
Kansai Region
Kiyomizu-dera, officially known as Otowa-san Kiyomizu-dera, is a renowned Buddhist temple located in eastern Kyoto, Japan. Founded in 778 by the monk Enchin following a divine dream, it is dedicated to the worship of the Eleven-Faced Kannon, a bodhisattva of compassion. The temple is famed for its large wooden stage, supported by 139 tall zelkova pillars, which extends over the hillside and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Its name, meaning 'Pure Water Temple,' derives from the Otowa waterfall on its grounds, where visitors drink sacred water believed to confer health, longevity, and success. The current main hall was rebuilt in 1633 under the patronage of Tokugawa Iemitsu after multiple fires destroyed earlier structures. Kiyomizu-dera is part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto UNESCO World Heritage Site and remains one of Japan's most visited temples, blending profound religious significance with stunning architecture and seasonal natural beauty. The temple also hosts the annual Kanji of the Year ceremony, emphasizing its cultural importance.
Plan your trip to Japan with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: Visit Kiyomizu-dera during spring for cherry blossoms or autumn for vibrant foliage to experience its scenic beauty at peak. Arrive early to avoid crowds and consider purchasing tickets in advance during special night illuminations. The temple offers seasonal events and ceremonies, so check the official website for updated schedules. Wear comfortable shoes as the complex involves walking on slopes and stairs. Visitors can drink from the Otowa waterfall's three streams, each said to grant a different blessing, but avoid drinking from multiple streams to respect tradition.
Interesting facts
- •Kiyomizu-dera's famous wooden stage is constructed without using any nails.
- •The temple is part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- •The Otowa waterfall has three streams, each believed to grant different benefits: longevity, success, and love.
- •Since 1995, Kiyomizu-dera hosts the annual Kanji of the Year ceremony on December 12.
- •The temple has burned down nine times in its history, with the current main hall rebuilt in 1633.
History
Kiyomizu-dera's origins date back to 778 when the monk Enchin established the temple after encountering the ascetic Gyōei Koji, believed to be an incarnation of Kannon.
The temple was named by Sakanoue no Tamuramaro, a military leader who became its patron after converting to Kannon worship.
Officially recognized by Emperor Saga in 810, Kiyomizu-dera has endured nine recorded fires, including a major one in 1629.
The current main hall was rebuilt in 1633 under Tokugawa Iemitsu's patronage.
Over centuries, the temple evolved from its affiliation with the Hossō sect to becoming independent as the Kita-Hossō sect.
It has been a significant pilgrimage site and cultural landmark throughout Japanese history, surviving political and religious upheavals and maintaining its religious and architectural heritage.
Place Guide
Main Hall (Hondo)1633
The main hall rebuilt in 1633 is a National Treasure featuring a large wooden stage that juts out over the hillside, supported by 139 tall zelkova pillars without nails. It houses the secret statue of the Eleven-Faced Kannon and attendant statues of Bishamon-ten and Jizo Bosatsu.
Otowa Waterfall
Located at the base of the main hall, the waterfall splits into three streams. Visitors drink from these streams using cups attached to long poles, each stream believed to grant a specific wish: longevity, academic success, or a fortunate love life.
Temple Grounds and Other Halls
The temple complex covers approximately 130,000 square meters and includes 15 buildings designated as National Treasures or Important Cultural Properties. The grounds are especially beautiful during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons.
Contact
Phone: 075-551-1234