Kiyomizu-dera ("Pure Water Temple") is one of Kyoto's most ICONIC sights — a 1,200-year-old wooden temple perched on the side of a mountain with a 13-meter veranda jutting out over the trees. The view from the famous wooden stage looks across all of Kyoto, and in cherry blossom or autumn season, it's absolutely breathtaking. The whole walk up through Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka to get here is an experience in itself.
What makes it special: This is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Japan's most visited temples. The wooden veranda is built without a single nail — a feat of 17th-century engineering. The Otowa Waterfall at the bottom has three streams (longevity, success, love) — you drink from one (kids LOVE this) but choosing more than one is considered greedy. Plus the Jishu Shrine for love is up top — walk between two stones with eyes closed for true love.
Kid tips:
• Entry: ¥500 adults, ¥200 kids.
• Best for ages 3+ — toddlers plus little kids will tire on the climb up. Carrier easier than stroller.
• GO EARLY (before 9am) or LATE (after 5pm) to skip the worst crowds. Sunset is GORGEOUS.
• NOT stroller-friendly past the entrance — stairs and uneven paths.
• The walk UP through Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka is FULL of food/snack stops — plan accordingly.
• Bathrooms inside the temple grounds.
• Drink from ONE waterfall stream — line up for ladles. Kids think it's magical.
• Bus stops nearby (Kiyomizu-michi or Gojo-zaka) or 25-min walk from Gion.
• Pro tip: cherry blossom and autumn evening illuminations are MUST-SEE — buy tickets in advance.
We pair this temple with Sannenzaka, Ninenzaka, the Yasaka Pagoda, Maruyama Park, and Gion for a perfect Higashiyama walking day with kids.
