Kiyomizu-Dera Temple is a Buddhist temple that belongs to the Kita Hoso sect founded by the Great Priest, Enchin, in the 8th year of Hoki (778 AD). In the main sanctuary, it enshrines an image of Kannon (God of Mercy) Bosatsu (Bodhi-Sattva). The structures on the grounds rebuilt in the 17th century include a Romon (two-storey gate), a Sanjunoto (three-storey pagoda), the Hondo (main Hall) and a Shoro (belfry). In spring, visit for the cherry blossoms, and in autumn, the maple trees.
Kyoto Station in a distance
The climb is worth it because, not only will you be rewarded with a panoramic view of Kyoto, but you will be greeted with the Hondo, the central building of the temple compound. Built in 1633, it is an example of the kake-zukuri or "overhang" architecture. The "Kiyomezu-dera stage" is a veranda supported by tall wooden columns with wooden braces. Notice too, the hinoki, or cypress bark, roof, dating back to the Heian period (794 - 1184).
The UNESCO inscription also states that the natural scenery is "quite beautiful" which to me is an understatement. I don't think there are many temples built on a hill amidst such lush vegetation.
Coming up: More about the temple grounds.
More pictures are available on my Flickr (simply click any photo).
Cost: 200 to 400 yen (Special night opening available!)
Access: 294 Kiyomizu 1-chome
Related Posts:
Japan Day 7 – Kyoto, Day 2:
- Check out and deposit luggage at reception
- Using the Kyoto City Pass One-Day Pass
- Train to Fushimi Inari Taisha
- Toji Temple
- Kyoto, Japan: Going Green in Gion
- Kyoto, Japan: Gion District
- Kyoto, Japan: Gion’s Shirakawa Street
- Kiyomizu-Dera Temple, Jishu Shrine & Otowa Spring
- Ginkakuji Temple
- Making More Offerings and Getting your Fortunes Told in Kyoto
- Train to Osaka
