Kiyomizu-dera in Autumn: Kyoto’s MUST-SEE Temple

Kiyomizu-dera in Autumn: Kyoto’s MUST-SEE Temple

Forget cherry blossoms. This is the most breathtaking season to visit Japan’s most famous temple, Kia Misadera. And if you don’t believe me, look at the scenery. This is not the first time we visited Kisera. The last time we visited during the spring, and I’ll link to that video in the pinned comment on this video and the description box below. The origins of Kisera are shrouded in legend with little verifiable historical documentation. What we do know is that it was founded in 778 AD and the current buildings on the site were built in 1633 at order of Shogunut Tokugawa Emitsu. [Music] The temple was granted an estate for its upkeep by Toyotomy Hiroshi. The current main hall was rebuilt in 1633 after a fire in 1629. Many of the other buildings were rebuilt around this time. [Music] In the early Maji era, the temple changed its sect to the Shingong Dji school but reverted to Hosur sect in 1885. Since its foundation, most of the buildings have been destroyed by fire over 10 times. [Music] Kim Mizadera is best known for its wooden stage that juts out from the main hall. The main stage stands 13 m above the hillside and affords visitors nice views of numerous cherry and maple trees below that erupt into a sea of color in spring and fall as well as the city of Kyoto in the distance. [Music] During the Edeto period, it was believed that if one survived a 13 m or 43 ft jump from the stage, one’s wish would be granted. During the Edeto period, 234 jumps were recorded, and of the jumpers, 85.4% survived. The practice was prohibited in 1872, so I do not recommend trying it now. Kizera is also one of the 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites around Kyoto. [Music] Kim Misader is one of the more popular, if not the most popular temple in Kyoto with both international and internal tourists. We arrived around 6:37 a.m. on a weekday, and as you can see, there is people around, but it’s not as packed as it can be. Weekends in particular are quite busy, but much like most of Kyoto, you can beat most of the crowds by arriving either early in the morning or mid-afternoon. Ki Mizera, much like other temples in the area, also do illuminations of an evening during the year. For the most up-to-date information on the illuminations, make sure you check out Kimisera’s website whilst you’re planning your trip and whilst you’re in Japan. The Ottoa waterfall is located at the base of Kim Mizadera’s main hall. Its waters are divided into three separate streams and visitors use cups attached to long poles to drink from them. Each stream’s water is said to have a different benefit, namely to cause longevity, success at school, and a fortunate love life. However, drinking from all three streams is considered greedy. [Music] Kim Mizadera opens at 6:00 a.m. every day with the closing time varying dependent on the time of the year. Entry costs 500 yen for adults and 200 yen for students. I highly recommend checking the Q Misadera website uh just for the most up-to-ate information closer to your trip. Public transport options for getting to Kim Misadera are pretty much only buses. There is several bus routes that run nearby to the temple, but it is about a 5 to 10 minute walk from most of the bus stops up to Kia Misera itself. And the walk is quite hilly and there is stairs. So, if you used a wheeled mobility aid or a wheelchair, you may want to consider getting a taxi up to the closest point of Kisera because the rest of the grounds are quite accessible. That said, if you’re somebody that struggles with hills, if you take your time and just pull to the side when you need a break, you will find that the hills are reasonably manageable. Just take them at your own pace. [Music] Kim Misader is only a short walk away from Kadaji Temple, which we also visited during this trip. If you want to have a look at that video, make sure you check it out by clicking here. Or if you’re looking for more inspiration for your next trip to Japan, check out the Japan playlist. Thanks for watching.

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto during autumn! [00:07] Forget cherry blossoms – the vibrant fall foliage transforms this UNESCO World Heritage site [02:38] into a truly unforgettable spectacle.

In this Japan travel guide, we take you through Kiyomizu-dera, exploring its rich history , the iconic wooden stage offering panoramic views, and the mystical Otowa Waterfall . Learn the best time to visit to avoid crowds, practical tips for getting there, and what to expect from the temple’s seasonal illuminations.

Whether you’re planning your first trip to Japan or looking for autumn inspiration in Kyoto, this video will help you make the most of your visit to one of Japan’s most famous temples.

TIMESTAMPS
Why autumn is the best season to visit Kiyomizu-dera [00:00]
The history and legends of the temple [00:19]
Stunning views from the main hall’s wooden stage [01:54]
The significance of the Otowa Waterfall’s three streams [03:59]
Tips for beating the crowds and visiting early [03:08]
Information on opening hours, entry fees, and transport [04:32]

You can see the video from when we first visited Kiyomizu-dera here: https://youtu.be/BeDLVCbZkao

If this is your first time seeing one of our videos, welcome! We’re Bec and Ben and we’re based in Tasmania, Australia! Our videos are influenced by our years of travel around Tasmania, and the rest of Australia, as well as our adventures in Japan. We also enjoy cooking at home and experiencing the food our travels have to offer (Bec in particular, LOVES instant ramen! 🍜)
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