Kiyomizu-dera Temple Guide

This guide is for travelers seeking the famous hillside temple with city views. It answers: “How to visit Kiyomizu-dera?”

Quick Facts

Best for: Temple lovers, photographers, sunset views
Time needed: 1.5-2 hours
Access: Bus from Kyoto Station to Kiyomizu-michi (15 min), then walk uphill
Admission: ¥400

Overview

Kiyomizu-dera Temple Guide - Image 2 — Photo by Basile Morin / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0

Kiyomizu-dera (Pure Water Temple) is one of Kyoto’s most celebrated temples. Famous for its wooden stage that juts out from the main hall, offering panoramic views over Kyoto.

What to See

Main Hall Stage

The 13-meter wooden stage was built without using any nails. Spectacular views during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons.

The iconic wooden stage of Kiyomizu-dera Main Hall overlooking autumn foliage — Kiyomizu-dera Main Hall Stage — Photo by Martin Falbisoner / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0

Otowa Waterfall

Three streams of water fall into a pond. Drinking from them is said to bring luck in studies, love, or longevity.

Shopping Streets

Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka are traditional stone-paved lanes leading to the temple. Great for souvenirs.

Traditional stone-paved Sannenzaka street lined with shops leading to Kiyomizu-dera — Sannenzaka Shopping Street — Photo by Andrea Schaffer from Sydney, Australia / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0

Tips

Early morning: Opens 6am. Before 8am is best to avoid crowds.
Night illuminations: Special evening openings during spring and autumn.

Getting There

From Kansai International Airport (KIX)

Recommended (Premium): Take the 🔵 JR Haruka Limited Express from Terminal 1 directly to Kyoto Station in approximately 75–80 minutes. Terminal 2 users must take the free shuttle bus to Terminal 1 first. This is the fastest and most comfortable option. Mid-range: Airport Limousine Buses depart from both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, arriving at Kyoto Station (Hachijo Exit) in approximately 85–100 minutes depending on traffic.

From Osaka Itami Airport (ITM)

Recommended (Mid-range): Take the Airport Limousine Bus directly to Kyoto Station in approximately 50–55 minutes. This is generally more convenient than navigating multiple train transfers with luggage. Buses depart from the arrival levels of both North and South terminals.

From Major Stations

From Kyoto Station: Take Kyoto City Bus number 206 (bound for Kitaoji Bus Terminal via Higashiyama) from the main bus terminal to the Gojo-zaka or Kiyomizu-michi stop (approximately 15–20 minutes). Alternatively, a taxi takes approximately 10–15 minutes.
From Osaka Station (Umeda): Take the 🔵 JR Special Rapid Service to Kyoto Station in approximately 30 minutes, then transfer to a bus or taxi.
From Yodoyabashi/Kyobashi (Osaka): Take the 🟢 Keihan Main Line to Kiyomizu-Gojo Station in approximately 50 minutes.
From Kyoto-Kawaramachi: Take the 🟤 Hankyu Kyoto Line to Kyoto-Kawaramachi, then take a bus (207) or taxi to the temple area.

Local Access

Kiyomizu-dera is located on a steep hill in the Higashiyama district. The nearest train station is Kiyomizu-Gojo Station on the 🟢 Keihan Line, but it requires an uphill walk of approximately 20–25 minutes. Most visitors prefer taking a bus to the Gojo-zaka or Kiyomizu-michi stops, followed by an uphill walk of approximately 10–15 minutes through the shopping streets. IC cards like ICOCA, Suica, and PASMO are accepted on all trains and Kyoto City Buses.

Sources

Official site: Kiyomizu-dera

Last updated: 2026-02-03