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Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Higashiyama

4.4

#3 of 45,446 in Things to do in Japan

Historic Site Landmark Must See

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Have your wishes granted at Kiyomizu-dera Temple, an independent Buddhist temple and World Heritage Site dating back to 1633. Constructed during the Heian period, the main temple and its famous stage were built without using nails. From the stage, look out onto the treetops below and the view of Kyoto in the distance. In the temple complex, drink from the three streams of the Otowa waterfall, whose waters are believed to have wish-granting powers. At the Jishu shrine to the god of love and matchmaking, try to walk between two stones with your eyes closed: those who are successful will also successfully find love. To visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple and other attractions in Kyoto, use our Kyoto day trip app .

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Kiyomizu-dera Temple Reviews

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TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

11,378 reviews

Google

4.4

• By Arotake

  One of the better (of many) temples we saw in Japan and def in Kyoto. Large, bright, well located and popular. Is a busy area but that's coz it is popular.  more »

• By expatpharm

  Due to the renovation project, the temples main part “butai (stage)” is totally covered and scaffolded all over. Does not worth pay fee to get in to see the construction.  more »

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Google

• By Larry Lim

  One of the best and largest traditional Buddhist temple. Very crowded with tourists and students. The main architecture building external is under maintenance, internal still open for visitors. A small token fee to enter the main building. The fall colors were fabulous. A short hike enables you to view the city from the top. At night, the illumination lightning was marvelous. Shrine / trees and gardens were light out. Professional photographers were on standby with tripods and cameras, waiting to capture the best moment. We took a lot of photos. Good selection of food stalls outside the shrine for refreshments. If you would like to stay for the illumination light, visit after your lunch. But, wear warm clothing as it is cold.

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• By Anna Bobrik

  One of my favorite place in Kyoto - one of the best example of traditional Japanese Buddhist architecture. Elegant Buddha temple and park. I have been here 2 times in March 2018 and June 2019. Unfortunately this place under construction. But it’s really magic. I advise to visit it during evening or night. From the early morning to the deep evening a lot of tourists here.

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