90 Minutes Kiyomizu Temple Tour in Kyoto

Kiyomizu-dera Temple is one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks. This 90-minute tour offers visitors a chance to explore the temple’s rich history and cultural significance. From the breathtaking views atop the main hall to the sacred Otowa Waterfall, where visitors can make wishes, this tour promises an immersive experience. Guests will also discover the Jishu Shrine, dedicated to matchmaking, and gain insights from a knowledgeable local guide. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a deeper connection with Japanese culture, this tour is not to be missed.

Key Points

• Guided tour of the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto, Japan, exploring its history, cultural significance, and architectural highlights in 90 minutes.
• Visit the temple’s main hall, supported by impressive wooden pillars, and take in the breathtaking views of Kyoto from the veranda.
• Discover the sacred Otowa Waterfall and learn about the belief that its three streams grant different powers, such as longevity, success, and love.
• Explore the Jishu Shrine, dedicated to the deity of love and matchmaking, and try the challenge of walking between the "love stones" with closed eyes.
• Learn about the spiritual influences and architectural features of the temple from a knowledgeable local guide.

About Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Kiyomizu-dera Temple is one of the most famous and iconic temples in Kyoto, Japan. Perched on a hillside, the temple offers breathtaking views of the city.

Its main hall, supported by massive wooden pillars, is renowned for its large veranda that juts out over the hillside. Visitors can access the Main Hall via the Otowa Waterfall, where they can drink from three streams said to have different powers.

The temple complex also features numerous other buildings, including pagodas, shrines, and teahouses. Kiyomizu-dera is a UNESCO World Heritage site, attracting millions of visitors each year with its stunning architecture and spiritual atmosphere.

Highlights of the Tour

The guided tour offers several highlights that immerse visitors in the temple’s history and cultural significance.

Guests will learn about the temple’s iconic main hall, whose veranda provides stunning views of Kyoto.

They’ll explore the temple’s sacred spring, believed to have healing powers.

The tour also includes a visit to the Jishu Shrine, dedicated to the god of love and matchmaking.

Throughout the experience, the local guide shares insights about Kiyomizu-dera’s architectural features and the deep Buddhist and Shinto influences that shape this renowned Kyoto landmark.

Exploring the Main Hall

As visitors approach the iconic main hall, they’re immediately struck by its impressive size and striking architecture. The wooden structure, standing 42 feet tall, is supported by 139 pillars and features a distinctive overhanging roof.

Visitors can explore:

• The Veranda, which offers sweeping views of the city and surrounding hills
• The Nio-mon Gate, an impressive two-story gate that guards the entrance
• The Deva Kings statues, which stand watch over the temple
• The Main Altar, where visitors can witness rituals and ceremonies

The sheer scale and beauty of the main hall create a truly awe-inspiring experience.

The Jishu Shrine and Love Stones

Continuing along the temple grounds, visitors come across the Jishu Shrine, a popular spot dedicated to the deity of love and matchmaking.

Two "love stones" stand about 18 meters apart, and the challenge is to walk between them with one’s eyes closed. Success is said to bring good luck in finding a spouse.

Next to the stones, a large wooden panel displays hundreds of wooden plaques with messages of love and romantic wishes.

The shrine is a focal point for those seeking love, marriage, and relationships, making it a unique part of the Kiyomizu Temple experience.

The Otowa Waterfall and Wishes

Atop the Kiyomizu Temple grounds stands the iconic Otowa Waterfall, a three-pronged cascade drawing visitors to the site.

The waterfall’s waters are said to have three different powers:

• Longevity
• Success
• Love

Visitors can collect the water in a cup and drink from the streams, making a wish as they do so. However, they’re only allowed to drink from one stream, as drinking from all three is considered greedy.

The waterfall is a popular spot for those seeking spiritual renewal, good fortune, and romance – a central part of the Kiyomizu Temple experience.

Temple Grounds and Surrounding Areas

The Kiyomizu Temple grounds encompass a vast and serene expanse, with numerous buildings and structures dotting the hillside. Visitors can explore the main hall, pagoda, and other shrines, each with its own unique architecture and significance. The temple’s surrounding areas offer breathtaking views of Kyoto, with the Otowa Waterfall being a popular attraction.

Area	Description
Main Hall	The main temple structure, featuring a large veranda that offers panoramic city views
Pagoda	A three-story wooden pagoda, one of the temple’s iconic landmarks
Otowa Waterfall	A waterfall with three streams, each believed to grant a different wish
Surrounding Shrines	Smaller shrines and temples located throughout the temple grounds

Exploring the Kiyomizu Temple grounds provides visitors with a deeper understanding of Japanese culture and history.

Included Lunch Experience

As part of the Kiyomizu Temple tour, guests enjoy a delightful lunch experience.

The provided lunch showcases the best of traditional Japanese cuisine, offering a well-balanced and authentic meal:

• Freshly prepared bento box with a selection of seasonal dishes
• Warm miso soup to soothe the palate
• Steamed rice to accompany the flavorful main courses
• Refreshing green tea to cleanse the pallet and aid digestion

This included lunch experience allows visitors to savor the flavors of Kyoto while surrounded by the rich history and serene atmosphere of the Kiyomizu-dera Temple grounds.

Booking and Practical Information

To book the Kiyomizu Temple tour, visitors can reserve their spot securely while maintaining flexibility. The experience includes confirmation upon booking, and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour starts. Travelers can check availability for their preferred time. The meeting and end point is at the Kiyomizu-dera Niomon Gate, where the guide will hold a yellow sign. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and near public transportation.

Booking Information
Confirmation at booking
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
Reserve Now and Pay Later

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos Inside the Temple?

Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photos inside the Kiyomizu-dera Temple. However, it’s important to be respectful and avoid disrupting the spiritual atmosphere or interfering with other visitors’ experiences.

Is It Possible to Visit Other Temples Nearby?

Yes, visitors can explore nearby temples during the tour. The guide can provide recommendations and information about additional temples in the area that can be visited after the Kiyomizu-dera Temple tour, depending on time and interest.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour has no strict dress code, but visitors are encouraged to dress modestly and respectfully. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves exploring the historic temple grounds.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs at the Temple Site?

Visitors can purchase souvenirs at the Kiyomizu-dera Temple site. The temple grounds feature several shops and stalls offering a variety of traditional Japanese crafts, snacks, and other items for visitors to browse and buy as mementos of their visit.

Is the Tour Available in Languages Other Than English?

The tour is available in multiple languages, including English. Customers can select their preferred language when booking the tour. The local guide will lead the tour in the selected language.

Recap

The Kiyomizu Temple tour offers an immersive 90-minute experience that delves into the temple’s rich history and cultural significance. Visitors can marvel at the iconic main hall, make wishes at the Otowa Waterfall, and explore the Jishu Shrine dedicated to matchmaking. With an included lunch, this tour provides a comprehensive and memorable glimpse into the spiritual treasures of this UNESCO World Heritage site in Kyoto.