Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Overview

Kiyomizu-dera Temple is an ancient temple with over 1200 years of history. It's said to have been founded in 778 when the monk Kenshin (later Enchin) of the Nara period underwent ascetic training at Otowa Waterfall. Later, Sakanoue no Tamuramaro built a Kannon-do hall and named it Kiyomizu-dera. The current main hall was rebuilt in 1633 by Tokugawa Iemitsu. Kiyomizu-dera has been struck by fire many times but has been rebuilt each time, gaining a strong following. In particular, the “Kiyomizu Stage” was so well known during the Edo period that the saying “to jump off the Kiyomizu Stage” was used to express a person's resolve. Within the temple grounds, you'll find various historical structures, such as the 'Tsukibutai Stage of Joju-in Temple,' which used pillars that support the stage, and the 'Koyasu Pagoda,' which enshrines Koyasu Kannon (Goddess of Safe Childbirth). The clear water of Otowa Waterfall is called 'Konjiki-sui' (golden water) and 'Enmei-sui' (water of longevity), and has been revered by people since ancient times. Kiyomizu-dera is a precious place that conveys the history and culture of Japan to the present day, and continues to inspire and heal visitors.