Early blooming cherry blossom "Sakura" : You must visit gardens in Kyoto
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Seasonal Japanese Garden
Kiyomizu-dera temple: History and Features
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Kiyomizu-dera Temple is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kyoto, Japan. Located in the eastern Higashiyama district, the temple is the head temple of the Kita-Hosso sect of Buddhism with a history of over 1200 years.
In the temple’s vast grounds, situated on the slopes of Higashiyama, there are a variety of historical buildings, temple treasures, and trees that bloom with flowers each season. In 1994, Kiyomizu-dera Temple was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here are some additional details to understand Kiyomizu-dera Temple better.
Contents
History
In 778, Enchin, a monk of the Hosso sect, had a dream in which he was told to “find a place with sacred water.” Following this dream, he found a waterfall on the slopes of Mt. Otowa.
At the waterfall, Enchin met Gyoei, a hermit over 200 years old. Under his guidance, Enchin carved a statue of Kannon bodhisattva and founded the original training place that became Kiyomizu-dera Temple.
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In 780, the famous noble Sakanoue-no-Tamuramaro killed a pregnant deer which was believed to be highly nutritious at the time for the safe delivery of his wife. On his way back, he became thirsty and met Enchin at Otowa Waterfall. He was deeply moved and converted after hearing Enchin’s teachings on non-killing. As a result, In 798, with Tamuramaro’s assistance, the main hall of Kiyomizu-dera Temple was built.
The exact date of the construction of the Kiyomizu-dera stage is unknown, but there is a diary entry that mentions Fujiwara Narimichi (1097-1160) playing Kemari (a traditional Japanese football game) on the Kiyomizu-dera stage. This indicates that the stage existed at least before the time he was alive.
The buildings of Kiyomizu-dera Temple have been destroyed by natural and man-made disasters about 10 times. One of the most famous incidents was the complete destruction of the temple by fire during the Onin War (a civil war in the Muromachi period) in 1469. The last fire that destroyed Kiyomizu-dera Temple was in 1629, and it has been rebuilt.
In 1994, Kiyomizu-dera Temple was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its historical significance and valuable architecture. It is now a popular tourist destination and attracts visitors from all over the world.
Features
Temple gate”Niomon”
The Niomon Gate serves as the entrance to Kiyomizudera Temple, showcasing a unique structure that merges elements of both Buddhist and Shinto traditions. This reflects the concept of “Shinbutsu Shugo”, the syncretism of Shinto and Buddhism.
At the forefront, two stone komainu or lion-dogs guarding the entrance of the shrine , stand with open mouths, symbolizing the loud proclamation of the Buddha’s teachings to the world. Further inside, two wooden “Nio” statues, muscular guardians with fierce gazes, flank the vermilion temple entrance, acting as protectors of the sacred space
Three-Storied Pagoda “Sanjunoto “
Beyond the Niomon Gate, the Three-Storied Pagoda rises majestically. This pagoda was built in 847 by Prince Takaoka, son of Emperor Kanmu, and reconstructed in 1632. The pagoda stands at a height of approximately 31 meters, making it one of the tallest of its kind in Japan. In 1987, its original vibrant colors from the Momoyama period were meticulously restored, allowing visitors to marvel at its stunning beauty.
Mainhall “Butai”
The Main hall is the single-story wooden structure with a thatched roof and an ornate carving and decorations inside. The wooden stage, located in eastern side of the main hall, is supported by more than 130 pillars. The size of stage is approximately 60ft(18m) high and 40ft(12m) wide, offering a panoramic view over Kyoto city.
Waterfall “Otowa no taki”
A Otowa no taki is a waterfall, located on a hillside in Kiyomizudera Temple. The waterfall is divided into three stream, each of which has different effect : a good for health, a good for longevity and a good for academic success. Visitors can use cup to catch the water from each water fall and drink it for benefit.
Sub-shrine “Jinshu shrine”
Jishu Shrine is a shrine located within the precincts of Kiyomizu Temple. Until the Edo period(1603 – 1867), it was known as the guardian shrine of Kiyomizu Temple, called Jishu Gongen Sha. It enshrines Okuninushi as the main deity and is popular among young women and couples as a spot for the god of matchmaking.Currently, it is under construction and entry is not permitted.
Jojuin temple
Jojuin temple is a sub-temple of Kiyomizu-dera, located on the west side of Kiyomizu-dera. To get there, before reaching the temple gate”Sanmon”, turn left and proceed up the stone steps. This temple is usually not open to the public, but is specially opened for a short period in spring and autumn each year. It was originally built as the residence of Gan-ashiōnin, who rebuilt Kiyomizu-dera after it was destroyed by the fires of the Ōnin War (1467 to 1477) through fundraising activities.
Since photography is prohibited in the garden, only a photo of the entrance is provided. The main hall overlooks a pond garden. The combination of rock arrangements and variouse type of azaleas is beautiful. The garden is quiet and peaceful as it is not crowded.
Information
①Kiyomizu-dera temple
Open hours
| Period | Time |
|---|---|
| Normal | 6:00 – 18:00 |
| Summer season (Jul.1 – Aug.31) | 6:00 – 18:30 |
| Special night viewing time (Mar.23th – Mar.31th)(Aug.14th – 16th)(Nov.18- Nov.30) | 6:00 – 17:30 (Day time) 18:30 – 21:30 (Night time) (21:00 Last entry) |
※Temple is closed during after day time and before night time(17:30 – 18:30)
Admission
| Ticket type | Price |
|---|---|
| Day time ticket ※Cannot be used as a Special night viewing ticket | Adult: 400 yen Child: 200 yen |
| Special night viewing ticket | Adult: 400 yen Child: 200 yen |
※Child is under 15 years of age.
②Jojuin temple
Open hours
| Period | Time |
|---|---|
| Autumn season Nov18 to Nov30 | 9:00 – 16:00 18:00 – 20:30(Special night viewing) |
Admission
| Ticket type | Price |
|---|---|
| Day time ticket ※Cannot be used as a Special night viewing ticket | ・Adult: 600yen ・Elementary and junior high school student: 300yen |
| Special night viewingticket | ・Adult: 600yen ・Elementary and junior high school student: 300yen |
Regular holiday
None
Address
1 Chome-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0862
It’s a 20-minutes walking from the nearest station : Keihan Line “Kiyomizu-Gojo” station to Kiyomizu-dera temple.
Link & Resorce
Official website
Kiyomizudera Temple(English text)
