Kiyomizu-dera Temple, or Kiyomizu Temple, which means, The Clear Water Temple was founded in 798 AD, but it was rebuilt many times, the most recent was in 1633. The name comes from the clear, pure waterfall from within Mt. Otowa. The water is considered one of the most famous pure water sites in Japan and drinking the water is said to bring good health, fortune, longetivity and success. Kiyomizu Temple is one of the most famous temples in Kyoto, Japan and the temple was added to the list of UNESCO world heritage sites in 1994.

The rise up to the temple is a steep and zigzag walk up Kiyomizu-zaka, an attractive, narrow street with restaurants, souvenir shops, tea rooms and art dealers. Tourists can find selections of silk, incense, dolls, hanging screens, antiques, porcelains and sweets. The area along Kiyomizu-zaka and Kiyomizu- Temple is culturally traditional and a must see place.

The Kiyomizu Temple was constructed by Enchin, a Buddhist priest, in honor of a bodhisattva, one who can achieve enlightenment and stays on earth to assist others in doing so. Enchin dreamt of a golden stream flowing down from the mountain into the Yodogawa River. He came across a hermit who was an old priest practicing ascetism. He gave Enchin a piece of wood possessed by Kannon Bosatsu’s spirit and later disappeared. Enchin realized he was speaking with a manifestation of the Kannon. When Enchin found a waterfall at the base of Mt. Otowa, he preserved the wooden image of Buddha, called Kannon Bosatsu, resulting in the beginning of the temple.

Kiyomizu Temple’s is comprised of many towers, gates and halls with a total of thirty-three structures each with its own historical and spiritual significance, the most famous one being the main hall. Behind the main hall is Jishu Shrine, a shrine dedicated to the god of love. In front of the shrine are two rocks meters apart from each other and walking successfully from one to the other is said to bring luck in love life. The Butai faces the outer sanctuary or dancing stage of the temple and has magnificent views of the cherry blossoms, attracting millions of visitors every year. Adjacent to the Butai is Oku-no-in, known as The Innermost Temple. The Kiyomizu Temple has richness in the style and architecture of each building and is definitely worth having a look.