Kiyomizu-dera

Kiyomizu-dera is a Buddhist temple perched on a hillside in eastern Kyoto and surrounded by dense forest. The main hall features a wooden stage projecting about 13 meters (43 feet) over the slope, offering views of maple trees and cherry blossoms.

The temple was founded in 780 at the site of the Otowa Waterfall and developed as a pilgrimage destination over centuries. Major reconstruction in 1633 under Tokugawa Iemitsu resulted in structures assembled without nails, a technique that preserved them to the present day.

The temple houses a statue of eleven-faced Kannon revered for compassion and protection, where visitors light incense and leave offerings. People come here to pray for help with health, family matters, and spiritual guidance.

The temple is accessible daily, and buses from Kyoto Station run regularly to the area. The grounds are hillside terrain requiring stairs and steep paths to explore all sections.

A sacred waterfall below the main hall divides into three separate streams, each connected to a different wish. Visitors traditionally drink from the separate channels to receive blessings for long life, academic success, or love.