The first time my family and I visited Kiyomizudera (清水寺) was last December 27, 2014, which was the 9th day of our first trip to Japan. We were finally able to revisit it last January 9, 2023, which was my 434th day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme.
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| Kiyomizudera (清水寺) |
Kiyomizudera is one of my favorite temples in Kyoto City. I love its rich history and the idea that it was built without using a single nail still amazes me.
Kiyomizudera details
Kiyomizudera, founded in 778, is a significant site dedicated to Kannon Bodhisattva, known for compassion. Situated on Otowayama in Kyoto, it spans 130,000 square meters with over 30 historical buildings, including national treasures.
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| Kiyomizudera |
Despite enduring more than 10 fires since its inception, the temple, rebuilt mostly in 1633, remains a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its origin traces back to a monk named Kenshin, guided by a spiritual dream to Otowa Falls, where he met Gyoei Koji and established the temple.
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| Welcome to Kiyomizudera |
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| Kiyomizudera Niomon Gate |
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| Shoun Seiryu |
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| Kiyomizudera belfry |
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| Kiyomizudera Sanjunoto |
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| One of the many pairs of komainu in Kiyomizudera grounds |
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| Otowa Falls |
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| Check out how long the line is to Otowa Falls |
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| Buddha's Footprints |
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| Kiyomizudera Asakurado |
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| One of the bells inside the Kiyomizudera Hondo |
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| One of the lanterns in the Main Hall |
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| Kiyomizudera chozuya |
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| Kiyomizudera UNESCO World Heritage Site marker |
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| Ticket Booths |
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| Some of the ema or wishing boards on Kiyomizudera grounds |
Originally part of the Hosso sect, it became the head temple of the Northern Hosso sect in 1965. Reverend Onishi Ryokei's leadership emphasized social welfare and peace amid societal changes.
Kiyomizudera Hondo (Main Hall)
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| Benkei's sandals and staff |
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| The view from the Hondo |
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| Kiyomizudera Shakado |
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| Kiyomizudera Hyakutai Jizodo |
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| Kiyomizudera's Niomon, Zuigudo, and Sutra Hall |
Team Nicerio revisits Kiyomizudera
The temple's iconic stage, supported by intricate wooden joints, rises 13 meters above the cliff and offers a breathtaking view of Kyoto. Known colloquially for its daring proverb, "Jump off the stage of Kiyomizu-dera," it symbolizes bold determination.
Kiyomizudera Entrance Fee
Since my last visit almost a decade ago, the entrance fee to Kiyomizudera has increased by a hundred yen. Today, visitors need to pay 500 yen to enter the main area of the temple grounds.
Kiyomizudera Operating Hours
Kiyomizudera is generally open from 6 AM to 6 PM but changes depending on the season.
Why visit Kiyomizudera?
Kiyomizudera, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kyoto, is a must-see for enthusiasts of history and magnificent architecture. Nestled within its grounds is Otowa Falls, offering three cascades, each representing love, success, and longevity. Tradition holds that drinking from one cascade grants what it symbolizes. Yet, drinking from all three is discouraged, as it is seen as greedy and could invite misfortune.
Getting to Kiyomizudera:
From Kansai International Airport, ride a JR Haruka Limited Express going to Kyoto. From there ride a bus #100 or 206. It will take you about 15 minutes to get to the Kiyomizumichi or Gojo-zaka bus stop. From there it would be a 10-minute uphill walk to get to the temple vicinity.
Ratings:
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As always, you take amazing photos Neil. Keep it up bro.
ReplyDeleteYou made my day. Thank you so much!
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