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James Clarke | profile | all galleries >> Old Galleries >> Kansai Sights >> Kiyomizu-dera (Kiyomizu Temple) tree view | thumbnails | slideshow | map

Kiyomizu-dera (Kiyomizu Temple)

One of Kyoto's most famous temples and thus also one of the most visited and crowded temples in Kyoto. It was nominated to be one of The New Seven Wonders of the World, due to it's unique architectural way it hugs to the side of Higashi-yama (East Mountain). From parts of the temple complex there are panoramic views of the city.

I recommend coming early in the morning if you want to experience peace and tranquillity here. The temple opens from 6:00am. The best time to photograph it though is at sunset. It is challenging to photograph the main hall because it is almost always backlit. Using a HDR technique or a GRAD ND filter is probably the way to go.

To get to Kiyomizu-dera catch a bus 100 (faster) or 206 from bus station on the north side of JR Kyoto Train station. The nearest train station is Gojo on the Keihan Main Line, it is a bit of a walk (about 1km), but it may be your only option if you want to get there for the 6am opening

This gallery is a collection of photos from Kiyomizu-dera taken on various visits I've made there. The newest photos are placed at the beginning of this gallery.

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The Main Hall in Golden Light
The Main Hall in Golden Light
The Main Hall Lit Up
The Main Hall Lit Up
The Temple Gate
The Temple Gate
Hydrangeas at Kiyomizu Temple
Hydrangeas at Kiyomizu Temple
The Main Building in the Summer
The Main Building in the Summer
Returning from the Shrine
Returning from the Shrine
The First Group of Buildings
The First Group of Buildings
The Group Photo
The Group Photo
Temple Garden
Temple Garden
Holy water
Holy water
Kiyomizu-dera
Kiyomizu-dera
Purification
Purification
A view of Kyoto
A view of Kyoto
Kiyomizu-dera Entrance
Kiyomizu-dera Entrance