Kiyomizu-dera temple in eastern Kyoto, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was founded in the late 8th century at the order of Sakanoue no Tamuramaro, a general and shogun of the early Heian period. Its current structures, all built without the use of nails, date from the early 17th century. The name Kiyomizu, literally clear or pure water, derives from the waterfall found within the temple grounds. The cliffside location of the temple's main buildings makes for sweeping views of the surrounding hills.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Kyoto

In the foreground, Saimon, the west gate, with the temple's main pagoda in back
The temple is dedicated to the worship of Kannon, bodhisattva of compassion and mercy.
In the right foreground, Sanju-no-to, the temple's three-story pagoda
Another view of the pagoda
Detail of Sanju-no-to
A little visitor dancing happily in her temporary kimono
View of the adjacent hillside and the temple's other pagoda, Koyasu-no-to, as seen from the viewing stage of the main hall
The temple's waterfall, Otowa, is split into three streams before falling into a pool below.
The streams are said to bring — from right to left respectively — good fortune in longevity, in love, and in learning. But it's also said that if you drink from all three streams, you will get . . . a stomachache.
This and the following two photos are views looking east from the main temple platform, with glimpses of other temple buildings in the background.
The main hall or Hondo and its viewing stage, which looks out onto the surrounding hillsides and onto downtown Kyoto. It is—as one might guess—a rather popular spot for visitors to the temple.
The stage was originally intended to be a setting for traditional performances dedicated to Kannon, such as ceremonial court music, Noh drama, Kabuki, and other performing arts, for which it is still used on special occasions today.
The main hall, perched on a cliff of Mt. Otowa, was reconstructed in 1633. The viewing stage, which extends out over the cliff, is supported by pillars that are over 40 feet high. The floor is covered with more than 410 Japanese cypress boards.
Near the top of the hillside facing the temple's main hall is its second pagoda, Koyasu-no-to.
Koyasu-no-to
Looking back at the main temple structures
Heading out after a visit to the temple