Kiyomizu-dera Temple: Temple of Clear Water

Kiyomizu Temple, Temple of Clear Water

“When Kannon-sama arises in your mind, then you are in Oneness with Kannon-sama.”

Resting on Otowa Mountain, Kiyomizu is one of the most scenic temples I’ve seen in Kyoto. The green mountain, the slow falling snow, and the ancient and impressive buildings made my visit lovely and enchanting.

The most famous part of this temple is the Main Hall (Hondo) - a huge wooden structure that houses the Eleven Headed and Thousand Armed Kannon Bodhisattva that extends to a veranda overlooking the temple garden and  the city of Kyoto. One interesting fact: it was built without the use of a single nail, the hall is supported by wooden pillars.

Niomon Gate (east gate).
At the back is the three-story pagoda under restoration.

Niomon gate. On both sides of the gate
are two kings which are believed to guard the temple from evil spirits.

Kyoto from Niomon gate.

Saimon gate (west gate).

West gate which was closed due to restoration.

The bell tower.  

Asakura-do Hall

A lamp at the main hall that caught my attention because of its design.

Located at the main hall (Hondo).

I took this photo from the main hall veranda. 

There were a lot of visitors that day.

Kiyomizudera temple.

Part of the temple's garden.

The temple was registered on the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List as one of the Historic Monuments of ancient Kyoto in 1994.

How to get there: 

If you're coming from Hankyu Kawaramachi Station, take City Bus 207 and get off at Kiyomizu-michi. The temple is a 10-minute walk from the bus stop.

From the Kyoto Station, ride Kyoto City Bus No. 100 or 206.

Opening Hours and Fees:

Opening Hours: 0600H-1830H
Fee: 300 Yen
Special Night Opening Hours in Spring and Fall: 1830H-2130H
Fee: 400 Yen

Website: Kiyomizu-dera Temple