Kiyomizu-dera — Wooden Stage Over Cherry Trees

Published: Jun 2, 2026

Updated: Jun 2, 2026

Kiyomizu-derawooden stageUNESCOcherry blossomspanoramic view

Kiyomizu-dera — Wooden Stage Over Cherry Trees

Kiyomizu-dera (清水寺, 'Pure Water Temple') is a UNESCO World Heritage temple famous for its wooden stage (清水の舞台, Kiyomizu no Butai) that juts 13 meters over the hillside, constructed entirely without nails using traditional joinery. The stage offers panoramic views over Kyoto's eastern mountains and, in spring and autumn, the surrounding cherry blossoms and maple trees.

The temple dates to 778 AD, predating Kyoto's founding as Japan's capital. The Otowa Waterfall at the temple's base is considered sacred — visitors drink from three streams believed to grant longevity, academic success, or romantic fortune (choose only one, or risk greed).

Opening Hours

6:00 AM - 6:00 PM (extended to 9:30 PM during illumination periods)

Closed: No regular closures (open daily)

Entrance Fee

¥400 (adults), ¥200 (children) | Night illumination: ¥400 separate admission

Best Season

Spring (cherry blossoms), autumn (maple foliage November), summer (night illumination in August)

Visit Duration

45 minutes - 1 hour

Getting There

Access Information

1-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward. 15-min walk from Gojo-zaka bus stop or Kiyomizu-Gojo Station. Entry: ¥400. Hours: 6:00–18:00 (extended to 21:30 during illumination periods). Visit duration: 45-60 minutes. Uphill approach on Kiyomizu-zaka (steep).

Detailed Access & Timing

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Insider Guide

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**Illumination seasons:** Kiyomizu-dera offers night illumination (18:00–21:30, last entry 21:00) during cherry blossom season (late March–early April), summer (August), and autumn foliage (November–D