We walked up the hill, along the street which had many stores and stalls leading up to the temple. We were not in a hurry as there was so much to experience and enjoy along the way.

Part of the fun of visiting Kiyomizu-dera is the approach to the temple along the steep and busy lanes of the atmospheric Higashiyama District. The many shops and restaurants in the area have been catering to tourists and pilgrims for centuries and products on sale range from local specialties such as Kiyomizu-yaki pottery, jewellery,  sweets and pickles to the standard souvenirs.

There it was at the top of the hill. This beautiful bright orange temple is massive. Kiyomizu-dera temple was founded in the year of 780 at a request of (Sakanoue no Tamuramaro). The main hall of the Temple which was built in the year 1633, is famed mainly for its wide wooden veranda in front, protruding over a steep cliff, with breathtaking panoramic views of the city of Kyoto.

From what I was told, this spellbinding large temple is made completely out of wood.  There are numerous sights to see inside of the temple and outside on the temple grounds. It is definitely a must see. The beauty of it all touches you as you walk around and through it. Once inside the temple I felt the serenity of this impressive massive structure. There are  quiet corners in the amazing gardens where we found some relief from the crowds  and benches tucked away in little alcoves, and hidden paths that end in stunning views.

The Temple’s complex includes several other shrines, among them the Jishu Shrine, dedicated to Ōkuninushi, a god of love and “good matches”.

Kiyomizu-dera which is located in the Gion area of Kyoto is one of the most popular temples of Japan. Kiyomizu-dera is an independent Buddhist temple and is part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto and listed as UNESCO World Heritage site.