Kiyomizu-dera temple: History and Features

This temple has historical buildings, temple treasures, and trees that bloom with flowers every season. In 1994, Kiyomizu-dera Temple was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Here are some additional details to better understand Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

・To fully appreciate the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a guided tour is highly recommended. Book your one-day tour through the link below.

Best Tour

Fushimi Inari-Taisha, Arashiyama, Kiyomizu-Dera Day Tour from Kyoto

History

In 778, Enchin, a monk of the Hosso sect, had a dream in which he was told to “find a place with sacred water.” Following this dream, he found a waterfall on the slopes of Mt. Otowa.

At the waterfall, Enchin met Gyoei, a hermit over 200 years old. Under his guidance, Enchin carved a statue of Kannon bodhisattva and founded the original training place that became Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

Features

Temple gate”Niomon”

The Niomon Gate serves as the entrance to the Kiyomizudera Temple, which features a unique structure that blends elements of both Buddhist and Shinto traditions. This reflects the concept of “Shinbutsu Shugo,” the syncretism of Shinto and Buddhism.

In the foreground, two stone komainu, or lion dogs, guarding the entrance to the shrine, stand with their mouths open, symbolizing the loud proclamation of Buddha’s teachings to the world. Further inside, two wooden “Nio” statues, muscular guardians with fierce gazes, flank the vermilion temple entrance, acting as protectors of the sacred space.

Three-Storied Pagoda “Sanjunoto “

Through the Niomon Gate, the Three-storied Pagoda rises majestically. This pagoda was built in 847 by Prince Takaoka, son of Emperor Kanmu, and rebuilt in 1632. The pagoda stands approximately 31 meters tall, making it one of the tallest of its kind in Japan. In 1987, its original vibrant colors from the Momoyama period were meticulously restored, allowing visitors to marvel at its breathtaking beauty.

Mainhall “Butai”

The Main Hall is a one-story wooden structure with a thatched roof and elaborate carvings and decorations inside. The wooden stage, located on the east side of the main hall, is supported by more than 130 pillars. The size of the stage is approximately 60ft(18m) high and 40ft(12m) wide, offering a panoramic view of Kyoto city.

Waterfall “Otowa no taki”

A Otowa no taki is a waterfall, located on a hillside in Kiyomizudera Temple. The waterfall is divided into three stream, each of which has different effect : a good for health, a good for longevity and a good for academic success. Visitors can use cup to catch the water from each water fall and drink it for benefit.

Sub-shrine “Jinshu shrine”

Jishu Shrine is a shrine located within the precincts of Kiyomizu Temple. Until the Edo period(1603 – 1867), it was known as the guardian shrine of Kiyomizu Temple, called Jishu Gongen Sha. It enshrines Okuninushi as the main deity and is popular among young women and couples as a spot for the god of matchmaking.Currently, it is under construction and entry is not permitted.

Jojuin temple

Jojuin temple is a sub-temple of Kiyomizu-dera, located on the west side of Kiyomizu-dera. To get there, before reaching the temple gate”Sanmon”, turn left and proceed up the stone steps. This temple is usually not open to the public, but is specially opened for a short period in spring and autumn each year. It was originally built as the residence of Gan-ashiōnin, who rebuilt Kiyomizu-dera after it was destroyed by the fires of the Ōnin War (1467 to 1477) through fundraising activities.

Since photography is prohibited in the garden, only a photo of the entrance is provided. The main hall overlooks a pond garden. The combination of rock arrangements and variouse type of azaleas is beautiful. The garden is quiet and peaceful as it is not crowded.

Information

①Kiyomizu-dera temple

Open hours

※Temple is closed during after day time and before night time(5:30p.m. – 6:30p.m.)


Admission

※Children is under 15 years of age.

②Jojuin temple

Open hours

Admission

Regular holiday
None

Address
1 Chome-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0862

It’s a 20-minutes walking from the nearest station : Keihan Line “Kiyomizu-Gojo” station to Kiyomizu-dera temple.

Link & Resorce

Official website
Kiyomizudera Temple(English text)