Kiyomizu Temple Tours and Activities

Photo provided by JNTO
Photo provided by JNTO
Kiyomizu Temple featuring a temple or place of worship and religious aspects as well as a small group of people
Photo provided by JNTO
Kiyomizu Temple featuring religious aspects, street scenes and a temple or place of worship


Constructed entirely without nails and built on high poles, this temple is part of a World Heritage Site and offers visitors both beauty and history.

Nestled in the Otowa Mountain, to the east of central Kyōto, the Buddhist temple of Kiyomizu is one of the city’s most popular attractions, attracting millions of visitors each year. The current temple buildings date from the 15th to 17th centuries, but there has been a temple here since 778. Enter through the red and gold Deva gate, and head up a steep incline to the temple. There are two approaches you can take, each lined with stalls selling snacks, local pottery work, incense and souvenirs. The Main Hall is the prominent feature of the temple, and houses an image of the goddess of mercy, Kannon Bodhisattva.Pilgrims have visited the temple for hundreds of years. To accommodate the pilgrims, a veranda was built on the Main Hall during the Edo period (1603-1868). Huge poles support the cedar slabs that make up the veranda. From here you have a view out to the city and over the hundreds of cherry trees planted in the temple gardens. You can also visit Otowa-no-taki waterfall and sip the water, which is said to have special properties, giving the drinker longevity, wisdom and good health. The romantic minded can venture to the Jishu shrine, where it is said that if you walk from one rock with your eyes closed and find your way to the second, you’ll find true love. The temple grounds also feature a three-tiered pagoda and 1,000 stone Buddha statues. In the fall the gardens are lit up so that you can enjoy the fiery colours of the maples in the garden. The temple is open daily and there is a fee to enter the complex. Take public transportation or a cab as there is no car parking on site. Buses depart from Kyōto Station, the city’s main transportation hub. It’s best to arrive early if you want to beat the crowds.

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Best Lodging Options Near Kiyomizu Temple

Hotel Vischio Kyoto by GRANVIA 

Hotel Vischio Kyoto by GRANVIA 

4 out of 5
44-1, Kamitonodacho, Higashikujo, Minami-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto
Hotel Vischio Kyoto by GRANVIA 
Onyado Nono Kyotoshichijo Natural Hot Springs

Onyado Nono Kyotoshichijo Natural Hot Springs

3 out of 5
491 Zaimokucho, Shimogyo, Kyoto, Kyoto
Onyado Nono Kyotoshichijo Natural Hot Springs
Nohga Hotel Kiyomizu Kyoto

Nohga Hotel Kiyomizu Kyoto

4 out of 5
4-450-1 Gojobashi-Higashi, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto
Nohga Hotel Kiyomizu Kyoto
Hotel Granvia Kyoto

Hotel Granvia Kyoto

4.5 out of 5
JR Kyoto Station, Karasuma Chuo-guchi, Karasuma-dori, Shimogyo, Kyoto, Kyoto
Hotel Granvia Kyoto
THE BLOSSOM KYOTO

THE BLOSSOM KYOTO

4 out of 5
140-2 Manjujicho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto
THE BLOSSOM KYOTO
Hotel Forza Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi

Hotel Forza Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi

3.5 out of 5
Shijo-Dori, Fuya, Nishihairu, Tachiuri, Kyoto, Kyoto
Hotel Forza Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi
Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto

Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto

5 out of 5
7 Seikanji Ryozan-Cho, Higashiyama-Ward, Kyoto
Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto
Sotetsu Fresa Inn Kyoto-Kiyomizu Gojo

Sotetsu Fresa Inn Kyoto-Kiyomizu Gojo

3 out of 5
391 Shiogamacho Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto
Sotetsu Fresa Inn Kyoto-Kiyomizu Gojo
The Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu

The Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu

4.5 out of 5
2-204-2 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto
The Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Kiyomizu Temple

At Kiyomizu Temple in Kyoto, immerse yourself in a day of sightseeing, where you can admire stunning views and explore the temple's historic architecture. Don't miss the charming souvenir stalls offering local crafts and mementoes. Engage in a quintessential Kyoto experience, from traditional tea ceremonies to scenic walks along the temple's paths. Make sure to take part in temple rituals to deepen your appreciation of this cultural gem.

Shopping

For a unique shopping experience near Kiyomizu Temple, visit Nishiki Market, a vibrant public market 1.6km away, or stroll down Kawaramachi Street, a bustling shopping area also 1.6km away. Pontocho Alley, a shopping mall center, offers family-friendly entertainment and is just 1.6km away as well.

Recreation

At Funaoka Thermal Bath, immerse yourself in rejuvenating body treatments that promote relaxation and wellness. For a more active experience, head to Nishikyogoku Athletic Stadium, where you can enjoy various sports activities. Alternatively, Kyoto Concert Hall offers an entertaining atmosphere with captivating musical performances.

Adventure

Embark on the Fushimi-Inari-Taisha Pilgrimage Circuit, a thrilling hiking trail 3.2km from Kiyomizu Temple, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking outdoor scenery. For winter sports, head to Biwako Valley Ski Resort, located 25.7km away, offering exhilarating skiing adventures amidst stunning mountain landscapes.

Nightlife

In Kiyomizu Temple, Gion Corner offers a captivating cultural theatre experience just 1.1km away, perfect for families and couples. For a thrilling family outing, the Kyoto Municipal Science Center for Youth, 4.8km away, and Omiyakotsu Park, 8.0km away, provide entertainment and adventure in the heart of Kyoto.

Find the best attractions near Kiyomizu Temple

When visiting Kiyomizu Temple in Kyoto, you'll find a rich blend of cultural experiences centered around the temple, nearby shrines, and quaint streets. Key attractions include the iconic Kiyomizu stage and the serene Dera Temple, perfect for families and city explorers alike. Don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of this historic site.

  • Fushimi Inari Shrine: This iconic shrine is renowned for its thousands of vibrant vermilion torii gates that wind up the sacred Mount Inari. Immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere and rich culture as you explore the trails lined with fox statues, the revered messengers of Inari, the deity of rice.
  • Kyoto Tower: Standing tall in the heart of Kyoto, this modern landmark offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. Enjoy a leisurely visit to the observation deck and experience the contrast of contemporary architecture against the historic backdrop of Kyoto.
  • Kyoto University: Founded in 1897, this prestigious institution boasts beautiful campus grounds and a mix of traditional and modern architecture. Stroll through the serene environment, appreciating the cultural significance and academic atmosphere of one of Japan's leading universities.

Best time to go to Kiyomizu Temple

Visitor numbers around Kiyomizu Temple is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Kiyomizu Temple can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Kiyomizu Temple falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Kiyomizu Temple falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January37.8°F (3.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February39.4°F (4.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March46.0°F (7.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April54.3°F (12.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
May63.5°F (17.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June70.5°F (21.4°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
July77.9°F (25.5°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
August80.2°F (26.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
September73.0°F (22.8°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
October62.2°F (16.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November52.3°F (11.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
December42.1°F (5.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Kiyomizu Temple

To save money during your visit to Kiyomizu Temple, consider traveling in the off-peak months of January to February or September for lower accommodation rates. Book your hotel about a month in advance or check last-minute deals on Expedia for potential savings. Tuesdays are the most affordable days to stay, while Saturdays are the priciest. Additionally, explore free attractions like Nishiki Market and Pontocho Alley nearby. Use Expedia's filters to find eco-friendly options and arrange package deals for flights and hotels to maximize your savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Kiyomizu Temple are January to February and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to April and November, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Kiyomizu Temple is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Kiyomizu Temple is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Kiyomizu Temple is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your options based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save some money by combining your hotel stay near Kiyomizu Temple with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.