⛩️ Kiyomizu-dera
Japan
About This Sacred Site
Kiyomizu-dera, meaning 'Pure Water Temple,' is an iconic Buddhist temple in eastern Kyoto perched on the side of Mount Otowa. Its most famous feature is the main hall's wooden stage, which juts out 13 meters over the hillside supported entirely by 139 pillars without a single nail. The Otowa Waterfall at the base of the main hall has three streams, each believed to grant a different benefit: longevity, success in school, and a fortunate love life. The temple was founded in 778 CE and is closely associated with the Hosso sect of Japanese Buddhism.
Key Facts
- •The main stage is built without a single nail using a special interlocking wooden technique
- •The Otowa Waterfall's three streams are said to grant longevity, academic success, and love
- •The Japanese expression 'jumping off the stage at Kiyomizu' means taking a leap of faith
- •UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto
- •The temple has been rebuilt multiple times; the current buildings date from 1633
Location
Coordinates: 34.9948, 135.7850
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