Exploring the Higashiyama District and Kiyomizu Temple

The Higashiyama district in Kyoto is known for its beautifully preserved historic streets and traditional atmosphere, making it one of the most picturesque areas in the city of Kyoto.

On one of our exciting trips out to this area, we will visit several of the prominent shrines and temples located here and explore the winding streets filled with delicious treats and hand-crafted traditional goods and souvenirs.

We will start the trip from our centrally located office, making our way to one of downtown Kyoto’s busy main streets where we will take a city bus together to our destination. We will learn how to navigate the bus and fare system, including transport manners and how to get to our destination.

Once we arrive, we will wind our way through the district’s narrow stone-paved lanes, lined with traditional wooden buildings, tea houses, and craft shops. There are plenty of traditional sweets and snacks to try in this area, from sweet rice dumplings, refreshing matcha ice-cream, and brightly coloured traditional candies, through to grilled meat skewers and steamed tofu buns. You’ll also find many packaged treats that are perfect for sharing with friends or taking home to share with family members. You can even find traditional spices and a wide variety of pickled vegetables.

Walking up and along Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka slopes, we will soon arrive at the foot of the stunning Kiyomizu temple. One of Kyoto's most famous landmarks, Kiyomizu temple is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers stunning views of Kyoto from its wooden terrace. The temple complex includes several halls, pagodas, and a beautiful waterfall. 

Located at the entrance is a large ornate gate that enshrines the statues of two fierce warrior kings. Inside the complex you can beseech the Shinto God of love and good matches for help in finding your perfect match. They say if you can find your way between the two prominent stones here with your eyes closed, you’ll be able to find your one true love!

Nearby you’ll find Daikokuten, the God of wealth and fortune, and located further in is the large and beautifully decorated prayer hall dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy, Kannon Bodhisattva. Back down amongst the maple and cherry blossom trees, you’ll find the three flowing streams of the Otowa waterfall. Here you can try to catch the water in a special ladle to pray for health, longevity, and success in your studies.

After taking in the sights of the sacred statues and filling your mind with quiet contemplation and prayer, don’t forget to stop and take in the stunning view of Kyoto city sprawled out below!