World Heritage Site Kiyomizu-dera, a Must-Visit Kyoto Attraction, Temporarily Closed

By MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Department

Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a must-visit destination in Kyoto, is celebrated for its breathtaking autumn leaves and is also among Kyoto’s top cherry blossom viewing spots. It has been reported that the temple will temporarily close to tourists from spring 2017 onwards for renovations. The project will involve Kiyomizu-dera’s “Stage of Kiyomizu” main hall, rooftop, beams, and other structural elements. During the renovation, a path for worshippers will remain open. Visitors who love Kiyomizu-dera should make plans to visit before the closure, while those who haven’t been there yet may consider advancing their trip.

A large-scale renovation of Kiyomizu-dera is scheduled to be completed before the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. The highly popular site, which attracts 5.5 million visitors annually, will inevitably see some changes to its landscape during the renovation period. The 12-meter-high, approximately 22-meter-wide, and 9-meter-deep Stage of Kiyomizu, along with nine out of the sixteen important cultural properties in the surrounding area, will undergo restoration. This marks the first major renovation since the 1950s. It’s a good idea to plan a visit to Kiyomizu-dera in the near future to see its complete form before the renovation begins.

【Info】
Kiyomizu-dera
Address: 1-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture
Phone: +81 - 75 – 551 - 1234
Recent Major Events at Kiyomizu-dera:
November 18 – December 4, 2016: Special Open Garden at Jishu Shrine
November 12 – December 4, 2016: Autumn Nighttime Special Openings
November 16 – December 4, 2016: Kiyomizu-dera Photography Exhibition “INSIGHT”
November 16, 2016: Temple Announces Peak Autumn Foliage Season Has Arrived