During our last trip to mainland Japan back in June 2018, we visited 7 cities including Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, Himeji, Hiroshima, Miyajima, and Fukuoka. Osaka isn’t my favorite city (sorry, not sorry) so we went up to Kyoto for the day. We visited Kiyomizudera Temple, since last time I visited in April 2017 my friend and I only made it to the gate. Sadly the main building was under construction since the summer of 2017 (*facepalm*) and should be until March 2020. No worries though because the hydrangeas made up for it!!
Founded in 780 on the site of the Otowa Waterfall in the east of Kyoto, it derives its name from the fall’s pure waters. Kiyomizudera means “pure water temple”. It is easily one of the most celebrated temples in Japan.
Located above the main hall is the Jishu Shrine which is dedicated to Okuninushi, a god of love and matchmaking. It is very popular with young people praying for luck in love. The shrine isn’t just for the lonely, there are various gods enshrined that you can worship for different wishes. You can pray for new love, a long lasting relationship, or even to thwart the efforts of a love rival.
One of the most popular parts of the shrine are two stones located 18 meters apart. Legends says that if you can walk from one to the other with eyes closed you will find true love. If you miss the stone your desire for love will not be fulfilled… but don’t fret, you can have someone guide you! If you need help finding the stone this means that you will find love, but a go-between will also be needed for you to find this love. There were so many people trying this out and it was fun to watch!!
^^ we bought one of these talisman made for safe travel and we attached it to our dogs kennel before our move! ^^
^ so bummed that the temple was under construction but I was not expecting the hydrangeas to be bloomed! ^
The waterfall is located at the base of Kiyomizudera’s main hall. The water comes down in three streams and visitors use ladles to drink from them. The water from each stream is said to have a different benefit, to cause longevity, success at school and a fortunate love life. Only choose one to drink from, because drinking from all three streams is considered greedy.
^^ the perfect summer treat before heading out, strawberry shaved ice ^^
Right outside the temple you’ll find the Higashiyama District, which is one of my favorite areas in Kyoto! It’s the perfect place to rent kimonos, get coffee at %Arabica and make a pit stop at Yasaka Koshin-do Temple and a traditional tea ceremony.
Kiyomizudera Temple
Address:
294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward,
Kyoto, 605-0862, Japan
Admission: ¥400
Hours: 6 AM – 6 PM (Open always)
It is open for special night viewing for a few days each season, see website for more info.
See more from our trip: Dotonbori Street | Exploring Kobe + Cafe Freundlieb | Nunobiki Herb Garden | Ikuta Shrine | Himeji Castle | Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park | Hiroshima Castle + Gokoku Shrine | Miyajima Pt. 1 | Miyajima Pt. 2 | Fukuoka Castle Ruins + Ohori Park | Nanzoin Temple + Tochoji Temple + Kushida Shrine |