90 Minutes Kiyomizu Temple Tour in Kyoto

The Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto is one of Japan’s most iconic cultural treasures. This 90-minute guided tour offers visitors an immersive experience into the temple’s rich history and breathtaking architecture. From the Main Hall to the famous wooden stage, the tour promises stunning panoramic views and insights into the spiritual significance of the Otowa Waterfall and Jishu Shrine. With free cancellation available, it’s a captivating journey that shouldn’t be missed.

Key Points

1. The 90-minute Kiyomizu Temple tour provides an immersive experience, exploring the temple’s rich history, iconic architecture, and spiritual significance.

2. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto from the temple’s large wooden veranda and witness the Otowa Waterfall, believed to grant longevity, success, and love.

3. The tour includes detailed explanations of the Main Hall, a breathtaking wooden structure, and the temple’s pagoda, which exemplifies Buddhist architecture.

4. The Jishu Shrine, dedicated to the deity of love and matchmaking, features two sacred "love stones" that visitors can navigate with eyes closed for good fortune.

5. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, starts from the Kiyomizu-dera Niomon Gate, and is priced at $104.69 with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

The History of Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Although its origins can be traced back to 778 AD, Kiyomizu-dera Temple has a long and storied history. The temple’s name means "Pure Water Temple" and it’s known for its large wooden veranda that juts out from the hillside, offering stunning views of Kyoto.

Over the centuries, the temple has undergone numerous reconstructions, the most recent being in 1633. Today, Kiyomizu-dera is one of Kyoto’s most popular attractions, beloved for its beautiful architecture, rich history, and spiritual significance.

Visitors can explore the temple’s many halls, shrines, and trails, seeing its serene atmosphere.

Highlights of the Kiyomizu Temple Tour

The Kiyomizu Temple tour takes visitors on an immersive journey through the temple’s rich history and stunning architecture.

Highlights include the iconic wooden stage, which offers panoramic views of Kyoto, and the Otowa Waterfall, where visitors can drink the "sacred" waters believed to bestow longevity, success, and love.

The tour also explores the various shrines and halls within the temple complex, each with its own unique history and significance.

Throughout the 90-minute experience, the knowledgeable local guide provides insightful commentary, bringing the temple’s centuries-old stories to life.

With included admission and lunch, the Kiyomizu Temple tour offers a comprehensive and enriching cultural experience.

Exploring the Main Hall and Pagoda

After exploring the highlights of the Kiyomizu Temple, the tour turns its attention to the temple’s two most iconic structures – the Main Hall and the Pagoda. The Main Hall, or Hondo, is a breathtaking wooden structure perched atop a hillside, offering stunning views of Kyoto. Visitors can admire its intricate architecture and the impressive wooden support beams that seemingly defy gravity. Adjacent to the Main Hall stands the graceful three-story Pagoda, a classic example of Buddhist architecture. The tour provides a detailed explanation of the symbolic and historical significance of these structures, enhancing the overall understanding of the temple’s rich heritage.

Structure	Height	Construction	Significance
Main Hall	13 meters	Wooden	Offers panoramic views of Kyoto
Pagoda	13 meters	Three-story	Classic Buddhist architecture

The Jishu Shrine and Its Love Stones

Within the expansive grounds of Kiyomizu Temple, visitors can discover the captivating Jishu Shrine, dedicated to the deity of love and matchmaking.

This shrine features two sacred "love stones" placed 18 meters apart, challenging visitors to navigate the distance with their eyes closed. Successful completion is said to bring good fortune in finding a partner.

Nearby, the Otowa Waterfall‘s three streams are believed to grant longevity, success, and love when drinking from them.

Strolling through the tranquil surroundings, it’s easy to understand why the Jishu Shrine is a popular destination for those seeking romance and connection.

1. Jishu Shrine dedicated to the deity of love and matchmaking
2. Two "love stones" placed 18 meters apart, to be navigated with eyes closed
3. Otowa Waterfall’s three streams believed to grant longevity, success, and love

Panoramic Views From the Veranda

Atop the iconic Kiyomizu Temple, visitors are treated to breathtaking panoramic views of Kyoto’s ancient cityscape.

The main veranda, known as the Kiyomizu-no-butai, juts out from the hillside, offering unobstructed vistas of the city below. To the east, the historic Higashiyama district stretches out, its traditional townhouses and temples nestled among the lush greenery.

To the north, the spires of Kyoto Tower pierce the skyline. The veranda’s wooden beams and pillars frame the landscape, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the beauty of Kyoto.

It’s a truly awe-inspiring experience.

Discovering the Otowa Waterfall

As visitors ascend the steps towards the iconic Kiyomizu Temple, they’re drawn to the captivating Otowa Waterfall. This three-pronged waterfall is a beloved landmark, offering visitors a chance to make a wish and purify themselves.

Here’s what to expect:

1. The water is believed to have three distinct benefits: longevity, success, and love.
2. Visitors can use long-handled cups to collect the water and drink from the falls.
3. The sound of the cascading water creates a serene, meditative atmosphere.

Exploring the Otowa Waterfall is a highlight of the Kiyomizu Temple experience, allowing visitors to enjoy Japanese tradition and culture.

Practical Information for the Tour

To start the tour, visitors should head to the Kiyomizu-dera Niomon Gate, which serves as the meeting point. The guide will be holding a yellow sign, making them easy to spot. The 90-minute tour covers the highlights of the Kiyomizu Temple and includes entry tickets and lunch.

Tour Details
Duration	90 minutes
Location	Kyoto, Japan
Price	From $104.69
Tour Type	Private
Accessibility	Wheelchair, Stroller

The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and near public transportation. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start. Visitors can reserve now and pay later for added flexibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

The tour’s inclusions indicate that lunch is provided. However, guests are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks, as long as they do not interfere with the tour experience or disrupt others.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour overview doesn’t mention an option to extend the duration. However, travelers could contact the tour provider to inquire about the possibility of adding more time to the 90-minute Kiyomizu Temple tour.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment or Gear?

No special equipment or gear is needed for this tour. The tour includes entry tickets to the Kiyomizu-dera temple, and a local guide will be provided to lead the group. Participants should wear comfortable walking shoes.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?

The tour itinerary can’t be customized, as it’s a pre-arranged 90-minute private tour of Kiyomizu Temple. However, travelers can request special considerations from the tour provider based on their individual needs or preferences.

Are There Any Discounts or Promotions Available for This Tour?

While no specific discounts or promotions are listed, customers can take advantage of the Reserve Now and Pay Later option for added flexibility. The tour price may vary depending on group size as well.

Sum Up

The Kiyomizu Temple Tour offers an immersive exploration of one of Kyoto’s most iconic sites. Visitors can marvel at the temple’s stunning architecture, uncover its rich history, and discover its spiritual significance. With knowledgeable local guidance and flexible cancellation options, this 90-minute experience promises an unforgettable journey through the heart of Japanese culture.