Kiyomizu Temple Tours and Activities

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


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, drawing millions of visitors a 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. During autumn 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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Top Kiyomizu Temple Hotel & Accommodation Deals

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

Visiting Kiyomizu Temple in Kyoto is a must for any tourist. Explore the stunning architecture and breathtaking views from the wooden stage overlooking the city. Take a leisurely stroll around the temple grounds, where you'll find beautiful gardens and traditional tea houses. Don't miss the nearby historic streets of Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka, perfect for day sightseeing and experiencing local culture. It's an enriching experience that beautifully blends spirituality with Japanese heritage.

Shopping

In Kiyomizu Temple, don’t miss Kawaramachi Street and Nishiki Market, both 1.6km away, offering vibrant shopping experiences. Pontocho Alley, also 1.6km away, features a mix of shopping, entertainment, and dining. If you're up for a drive, explore more shopping centres in nearby Kyoto.

Recreation

At Funaoka Thermal Bath, indulge in rejuvenating body treatments that promote wellness just 6.4km from Kiyomizu Temple. Enjoy live performances at Kyoto Concert Hall, offering a vibrant atmosphere for music lovers. For sports enthusiasts, Nishikyogoku Athletic Stadium provides a thrilling environment for various athletic events, only 6.4km away.

Adventure

At Kiyomizu Temple, embark on the Fushimi-Inari-Taisha Pilgrimage Circuit, a scenic 3.2km hiking trail offering breathtaking views and an adventurous atmosphere. For winter thrills, head to Biwako Valley Ski Resort, located 25.7km away, where you can enjoy skiing and outdoor sports in a vibrant ski environment.

Nightlife

In Kiyomizu Temple, the nightlife is vibrant and rich in culture. Gion Corner, a theatre 1.1km away, showcases traditional performances, while Kyoto MINAMIZA Theatre, 1.4km away, offers captivating shows. For a unique experience, the Kyoto Municipal Science Center for Youth, 4.8km away, features an impressive planetarium.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Kiyomizu Temple

During your visit to Kiyomizu Temple in Kyoto, immerse yourself in the rich culture and history by exploring the famous Kiyomizu-dera, a renowned Buddhist temple. Don't miss the beautiful Seiryu Kiyomizu and the charming streets surrounding the temple, which offer a delightful family experience. This destination is perfect for travellers seeking a blend of cultural and urban adventures.

  • Fushimi Inari Shrine: Located 3.2km from Kiyomizu Temple, this iconic shrine is famous for its thousands of vibrant vermilion torii gates that wind through the forested mountain trails. Immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere and enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto.
  • Kyoto Tower: Also 3.2km away, this modern tower offers stunning 360-degree views of the city and beyond. Experience the vibrant city vibes as you enjoy a meal or shop in the surrounding complex, making it a perfect blend of modernity and tradition.
  • Kyoto Imperial Palace: Situated 3.2km from Kiyomizu Temple, this historic palace is a serene oasis showcasing traditional Japanese architecture and beautiful gardens. Explore the rich cultural history and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Best time to go to Kiyomizu Temple

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.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
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 travelling in the cheaper months of January, February, or September. Book your accommodation about a month in advance for the best rates, and keep an eye out for last-minute deals on Expedia. Tuesdays usually offer the lowest hotel prices, while Saturdays are the priciest. Use Expedia's search tool to filter by budget and consider package deals that combine flights and accommodation for extra savings. For transport, take advantage of Kyoto's affordable public transport or enjoy a leisurely walk to explore the area.

  • 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: Booking a hotel around Kiyomizu Temple about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • 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: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some cash by combining your Kiyomizu Temple hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.