The shocking suspension of ancient architectural craftsmanship

#7月發文留言活动2025

Kiyomizudera Temple is one of the oldest temples. It was founded in 778. It was built by Nobujin Shonin on the orders of the monks of Todaiji Temple in Nara. It was later expanded by Sakanoue Tamuramaro to enshrine the Eleven-faced Thousand-armed Avalokitesvara.

The main hall and Kiyomizu stage rebuilt in 1633 became what they are today and were listed as a World Cultural Heritage in 1994. The name of the temple comes from the Otowa Falls (音羽の泷), whose clear springs never stop all year round, symbolizing purification and blessing.

Most visitors pray for health, academic success and marriage. It attracts about 5.5 million tourists every year and is the core of tourism.

• Transportation:
Bus (most recommended): Take city bus No. 100 or 206 from Kyoto Station (about 15 minutes, ¥230) to "Gojozaka" or "Kiyomizu-michi" station, and walk 8-10 minutes uphill to the entrance. The bus runs frequently (every 10 minutes).

Keihan Railway: Walk about 20 minutes from "Kiyomizu Gojo Station", or take a bus to Gojozaka (about ¥230).

Kiyomizu Temple is located in Higashiyama District, close to Yasaka Shrine (10 minutes walk), Ninenzaka/Sannenzaka (5 minutes walk), Kodaiji Temple (10 minutes walk) and Gion Hanami-koji (15 minutes walk), suitable for half-day or full-day tours.

You need to climb Gojozaka or Kiyomizuzaka (about 200-300 meters, medium slope), it is recommended to wear sneakers or flat shoes, those with limited mobility can take a taxi to the entrance (but there is no direct access to the temple gate).

Kiyomizu Temple covers a large area and includes many cultural assets and landscapes. The following is an introduction in order of visit:

• Niomon
The vermilion gate at the entrance, built in the 15th century, is magnificent, and is guarded by Kongo Rikishi statues on both sides. The stone steps in front of the gate are a popular photo spot, and there are often tourists in kimonos in the background.

• West Gate and Bell Tower
The West Gate (red wooden door) and the quaint bell tower behind Niomon are suitable for photographing the traditional temple atmosphere.

• Three-story Pagoda
The tallest three-story pagoda in Japan (31 meters), rebuilt in 1632, enshrines Mahavairocana, with a bright red exterior and exquisite murals inside (not often open).

• Kiyomizu Stage
The suspended wooden platform in front of the main hall is 13 meters high and supported by 139 beech pillars without a single nail, showing the ancient architectural craftsmanship. Stand on the stage and overlook Kyoto, and feel the shock of being suspended in the air.

Address: 1-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama District, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture, located halfway up Mt. Otowa, overlooking the eastern part of Kyoto.