(History of the temple)
According to the Chronicle of Kiyomizu-dera temple, it originated in 778 when the noted monk, Enchin, enshrined an image of "Kannon" Goddess of Mercy on the mountain overlooking the Otowa-no-taki waterfall; later in 798, the distinguished general, Sakanoue-no-Tamuramaro, built a Buddha hall there, following which the temple came under the official patronage of Emperor Kanmu. Repeatedly destroyed by fire over the centuries, it was rebuilt on each occasion.
Today, the principal temple buildings are the "Saimon" West Gate, the three-storied pagoda, the "Kyodo" Sutra Hall, the "Tamurado" Founder`s Hall, the "Todorokimon" Middle Gate, the "Asakurado" Hall, the "Hondo" Main Hall and the "Amidado" Amida Buddha Hall, all aligned on an east-west axis.
(Highlights)
The "Hondo" Main Hall, built in 1633, is the central building of the temple compound and is an example of "Kake-zukuri", or "overhang" architecture. It is famous for its so-called "Kiyomozu-dera stage", an imposing verandha, supported by a forest of tall wooden columns with wooden braces running through them crosswise and lengthwise.
Not only can you be in the solemn atmosphere accompanied by the delicate aroma of burning incense, but also get the breathtaking view below from the 12-meter-high platform, which is popularly known for the proverb "Jumping off the stage of Kiyomizu-dera temple", meaning making a bold attempt at doing something dangerous or impossible. In addition to the natural beauty surrounding the compound, the Buddhist temple is especially attractive in the cherry-blossom viewing season in early April and late in autumn when there are tree leaves in various colors.
(How to enjoy)
In addition to the beautiful scenery surrounding the temple, you can find various kinds of souvenir shops on both sides of the approach to it and you can spend a happy time unawares. The temple itself is a magnificent building utilizing every sophisticated construction technique available in olden times of Japan. You can meditate, pray or imagine the esoteric world of Buddhism. You can drink cold, clear water from a waterfall below the platform. However, just enjoy being in the temple; no word is necessary.
(Others)
The bus fare is 460 yen on both ways and the admission fee is 300 yen (at the time of lighting at night, it is 400 yen, however).
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
At your hotel
Kiyomiozu-dera temple
Otowa-no-taki-waterfall.
Ending Point
At your hotel
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
guide fee, hotel pick-up in Kyoto area
Transportation fee (you and guide), lunch, dinner, entrance fee, hotel pick-up in areas beyond Kyoto area
I would like at least 7 days notice before a booking.
It took me some 20 years to be qualified for this job and I feel honored for being able to help tourists from abroad understand our nation and culture. Japan is a beautiful country with a long history, tradition and rich cultural heritages, having various features in each of the four distinct seasons. Although there are now many visitors from abroad, mainly from Asian countries, they are mostly interested in shopping taking advantage of cheaper yen rather than understanding our people and culture. Kyoto and Nara are the two cities best known by foreign tourists, but not all the aspects of Japanese culture are concentrated there. If you visit the countryside other than these two cities, you will never fail to see the beautiful natural surroundings and people who will warmly welcome you. I wish to work as the bridge between Japanese people and tourists from all over the world.
Jack H.
“Excellent gentlemanly service ”
Hiru showed my family around Kyoto for a day. It was extremely hot and he tried his best to make the visit as easy as possible for us. We learnt several interesting facts on history, Buddhism, Shintoism and Kyoto itself. I would recommend fully this experience, the only thing I would say is that if you suffer from the heat or periods of standing and walking then this tour could be challenging for you to complete.
Tatsuhiro N.
Hi Jack-san, Thank you very much for giving me a full mark. I am greatly encouraged by your favorable comment and I will keep your advice in mind in my future job. Best regard, Hiro
Brandon W.
“Premium tour of Kyoto - Wodnerful!”
Tatsuhiro was a wonderful tour guide for our first time in Kyoto. Very accommodating and considerate. Tatsuhiro was very informative on the subjects and historical sites we visited. It was a wonderful experience, definitely recommend!
Tatsuhiro N.
Hi Brandon-san, Thank you very much for your favorable comment. Nothing is more encouraging and inspiring than receiving a high mark from my customer for the job I have done. I wish you will have enjoyable days ahead. Above all, a good health. Regards, Hiro
Roxana P.
“very good, very nice guide”
everything was perfect, the communication beforehand was also very nice and friendly
Tatsuhiro N.
Hi Roxana-san, Thank you very much for your favorable comment. I am really encouraged by it. Above all, I was really happy when I saw the smiling faces of your clients as we ended the day. Nothing is more inspiring to me than that. I wish you a greater success in your business. I will try even harder blushing up my English by whatever means possible. Regards, Hiro
$103/ per group