Kyoto's Kiyomizu-dera Temple: Stroll along the ancient paths and experience Kyoto's thousand-year-old splendor

A highlight of any trip to Kyoto is undoubtedly a visit to Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Starting from the foot of the mountain, you can immerse yourself in the rich historical atmosphere. As you ascend the bustling Kiyomizu-zaka, you'll find traditional Japanese houses and a dazzling array of unique shops. The air is filled with the aroma of Japanese sweets and matcha, inviting you to stop and explore this ancient street. Many tourists, dressed in elegant kimonos, add a touch of vibrant color to the quaint scenery, creating a sense of time travel.

As the terrain rises, the majestic architecture of Kiyomizu-dera Temple gradually comes into view. From a distance, the iconic three-story pagoda stands out against the lush greenery, its vermilion tower forming a stunning backdrop against the mountains behind and the cityscape ahead.

Entering Kiyomizu-dera Temple, the first thing you see is the majestic west gate and the three-story pagoda, both of which are awe-inspiring architectural beauty. Inside the temple, we held a postcard featuring the stunning cherry blossoms at Kiyomizu-dera Temple and overlaid it with the actual scenery, imagining the grandeur of the cherry blossoms in full bloom. The scene was filled with romance and poetry.

Next, we arrived at the main hall of Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Its most striking feature is the suspended "Kiyomizu Stage," supported by 139 massive beechwood pillars, ingeniously integrated into the mountainside without a single nail. From the stage, one can command a panoramic view of the entire Kyoto cityscape. The distant mountains intertwine with the nearby houses, creating a breathtaking and refreshing view.

Descending from the stage, we arrived at the famous Otowa Falls. Here, three clear springs are said to represent "scholarly success," "romantic success," and "longevity." Many tourists line up here, scooping the water with long-handled ladles and drinking from it in prayer. Nearby, many couples in kimonos posed for beautiful photos beneath the quaint pavilion, creating a warm and romantic scene.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple is more than just a Buddhist temple; it's a place steeped in spiritual energy and rich in history. From the bustling shopping streets at the foot of the mountain to the breathtaking views from the summit, every corner is captivating. This trip to Kiyomizu-dera Temple allowed me to experience Kyoto's unique historical charm and leave behind many unforgettable memories.
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Post by Smartdoctor | Aug 8, 2025