Kiyomizudera Temple Tourism

Kiyomizu-dera, officially Otowa-san Kiyomizu-dera, is an iconic historic temple located in Eastern Kyoto, Japan. Founded in the late 700s, the temple is named after the waterfall within the complex, which runs off the nearby hills. 'Kiyomizu' translates to 'pure water,' indicative of the temple's association with the Otowa Waterfall. The temple is famous for its wooden stage that juts out from its main hall, 13 meters above the hillside below, offering visitors a stunning view of the cherry and maple trees that erupt in a sea accordingly seasonally, as well as the city of Kyoto in the distance. This stage is part of the main hall, which is dedicated to the eleven-faced, thousand-armed Kannon. Kiyomizudera is an affiliated temple of the Hosso school of Japanese Buddhism and has been added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. One of its most notable practices is the Otowa Waterfall, where visitors drink for health, longevity, and success in studies. Throughout the year, the temple hosts various events, including the famous cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons.