It is a slow ascent to the temple but the shops make it a lot easier for visitors. Eye-catching displays both for souvenirs and street food take attention away from the breathlessness that overtakes you as you trudge towards the beautiful temple. It is supposedly is just a 10 minute walk away but it definitely is longer than that.
But you instantly realize it is worth the trek once you come into this view. And this is not the main hall just yet.
The Otowa Watefall which gives Kiyomizudera it’s title is at the base of the main hall, divided into 3 streams – for longevity, for success at school and for fortunate love life. Visitors use a long pole with cups at the end to drink from the streams. One though is expected to only drink from one stream lest you be deemed greedy.
Kiyomizudera is known for its wooden stage which extends from the main hall and a good viewpoint for spring and autumn – cherry blossoms in spring, colored leaves in autumn. The main hall itself is made of wood with no nails, whatsoever. Renovation work is almost done though and looks to be done by March 2020.
Kiyomizudera is one of Japan’s 23 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and it sure is worth a visit when you are in Japan or just planning to visit one day.
Kiyomizudera : Long & Lat (34.9947991755833″ N, 135.78496992588″ E)
my take 