Kiyomizudera

TEL :075-551-1234 Address :1 Chome-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto Access :JR Kyoto Station > (bus) > Gojozaka bus stop > 10 minutes walk

Early morning visit to Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Kiyomizu-dera Temple is one of Kyoto’s most representative temples. It’s always very crowded during the day, but in the early morning there are fewer people, so you can visit the shrine at your leisure. It opens at 6 AM every morning, so going at that time is also recommended.

I stayed at a nearby hotel and left around 5:30. Along the road leading to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, at Otani Honbyo, a monk was ringing the temple bell. I walked up the deserted hill, listening to that sound.

Then, at around 5:45, I arrived at Kiyomizu-dera Temple. About 20 people were waiting at the entrance for it to open.

Then, at 6 o’clock, a staff member called out, “Please come in,” and I climbed the stairs and entered the temple grounds.

After paying the entrance fee, I arrived at the pathway leading to the main hall.

And I was the first to arrive at the stage in front of the main hall.

Morning service

At Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a service is held in the main hall on the second Sunday morning of every month. This starts at 7:00 AM from April to October, and at 7:30 AM from February to March and November to December. It is closed in January.

In the main hall, seven monks and about 20 worshippers were chanting sutras together. I also attended the service from the back. I felt refreshed after spending a special time in the hall, which is a national treasure.

Amulet distribution center

The amulet distribution counter opens at 8:00 AM. If you want to buy a good luck charm, you’ll need to wait a little while.

Map