Yasugi Kiyomizu-dera Temple: Opening Hours, Admission Fees, and Access
Yasugi Kiyomizu-dera (Zuikōzan Kiyomizu-dera), nestled in the mountains of Yasugi in Shimane Prefecture, is a historic Tendai Buddhist temple devoted to Kannon, the Buddhist bodhisattva of compassion revered for warding off misfortune. Planning your transport and any viewing reservations in advance will help you enjoy a relaxed visit.
If this is your first visit to a Japanese Buddhist temple, familiarize yourself with both the basics of worship and the practical details to check before setting out.
Save the Official Temple Name and Address in Your Itinerary
When searching maps or routes, enter Yasugi Kiyomizu-dera as your destination and check the address against the temple's official visitor information.
Its official name is Zuikōzan Kiyomizu-dera, and its address is 528 Kiyomizuchō, Yasugi, Shimane Prefecture.
Because it shares its name with Kyoto's Kiyomizu-dera, searching for Kiyomizu-dera alone may show a different temple; adding Yasugi helps avoid confusion.
When asking for directions at your accommodation or seeking transport advice, showing the Japanese name on your screen can also make your destination clearer.
Planning your return journey alongside your outward route makes it easier to decide how long to spend in the temple grounds.
How to Get to Yasugi Kiyomizu-dera and Where to Park
By car, allow around 10 minutes from Yasugi Interchange (IC) on the San'in Expressway or around 15 minutes from JR Yasugi Station.
The temple provides free parking for approximately 100 vehicles.
For public transport, if a suitable Yasugi City Yellow Bus service toward Kiyomizu is available from JR Yasugi Station, the ride takes about 15 minutes, followed by a walk along the temple approach.
Available buses are limited by the operating day and route, so check Yasugi City's timetable for a suitable service and your alighting stop, and note your return bus as well.
The temple is also about 15 minutes by car from the Adachi Museum of Art; if taking a taxi, clearly specify Kiyomizu-dera in Yasugi when you get in.
Check General Visits, Reserved Viewings, and Prayer Services Separately
Before visiting, check official information for visiting hours, accessible areas, and the booking conditions for any viewings or prayer services you would like to attend.
Entry to Yasugi Kiyomizu-dera and visits to its grounds are free, but admission to the three-story pagoda and treasure museum costs extra and generally requires a reservation.
Read the guidance for general temple visits, interior viewings, and individual applications separately to avoid confusion.
The main reception hours and indicative fees are as follows.
| Visit or Service | Indicative Hours and Fees | Reservation |
|---|---|---|
| Visiting the temple grounds | 8:30–17:00 (last entry 16:30); free | Not required |
| Three-story pagoda and treasure museum | 9:00–16:00 (closed 12:00–13:00); each: adults 500 yen, junior high and high school students 300 yen, elementary school age and younger 100 yen | Generally required at least 1 week before your visit |
| Prayer services | Reception 9:00–16:00; adults from 6,000 yen, children age 13 or younger by traditional Japanese age reckoning from 3,000 yen | Apply directly at the main hall |
The temple may close because of weather or other circumstances, so check the latest information from the temple or Yasugi City Tourism Association shortly before your visit.
To book the three-story pagoda or treasure museum, call 0854-22-2151 or fax 0854-22-2107 with the group representative's name and contact details, the place you wish to view, the date and time, and the number of visitors.
Viewing reservations are suspended from December 1 to March 31, and some other dates may be unavailable because of Buddhist services or other events.
The treasure museum does not require reservations during its special spring and autumn opening periods, so checking these dates on the official website will help you plan.
Arriving 15 minutes or more late for a reservation without prior notice is treated as a cancellation, so always contact the temple in advance if you expect a delay.
Prayer services such as yakubarai, prayers to ward off misfortune, cannot be reserved by phone and must be requested directly at the main hall; reception pauses from 12:00 to 13:00 except from January 1 to February 3, and may also be suspended for Buddhist services or other events.
If you are unsure whether a reservation is needed or where to apply, explain specifically what you would like to do when making your inquiry.
Discuss Mobility or Language Needs in Specific Terms
Yasugi Kiyomizu-dera's temple complex spreads across the slopes of a valley, with halls such as Konpon-dō and the three-story pagoda standing on terraces connected by long flights of stone steps.
If you have concerns about walking or use a wheelchair, discussing the route from the entrance to the places you wish to visit in advance will help you plan.
Briefly explain any assistance you need, such as avoiding steps or allowing extra time to read Japanese explanations.
Checking what support is available before adding the temple to your itinerary helps everyone in your group agree on a manageable visit.
Yasugi Kiyomizu-dera History and Highlights: Konpon-dō Hall and the Pagoda You Can Climb
Learning about the temple's origins and main buildings before arriving gives meaning to the halls you see and makes your visit more memorable.
Over 1,400 Years as a Kannon Temple for Warding Off Misfortune
Yasugi Kiyomizu-dera is said to have been founded by the monk Sonryū Shōnin in 587, the 2nd year of Emperor Yōmei's reign.
A mysterious light that appeared on the mountain, called zuikō, and pure spring water, called kiyomizu, that neither clouded in the rainy season nor dried up in the dry season are said to have inspired the temple's mountain name Zuikōzan and its name Kiyomizu-dera.
In 597, the 5th year of Empress Suiko's reign, the empress is said to have experienced the power of its prayers against misfortune in a dream and ordered the main hall built; the temple has since attracted devotion as a sanctuary of Kannon who wards off misfortune.
The monk Ennin, also known as Jikaku Daishi, is said to have visited from Mount Hiei in 847, the 14th year of the Jōwa era, leading to its affiliation with the Tendai school.
During the Sengoku period, the Mōri army burned down the temple complex except for Konpon-dō, but it was restored in the Edo period under the patronage of the lords of Matsue Domain.
The principal image, the Eleven-Headed Kannon Bodhisattva, is normally kept hidden, with ceremonial unveilings held each year on January 1–3, April 29–May 5, and July 17.
Konpon-dō Hall: A National Important Cultural Property
Konpon-dō, the temple's main hall, was built in 1393, the 4th year of the Meitoku era, and is designated a National Important Cultural Property.
At the rear of the main hall is a well filled with spring water that is said to have given the temple its name.
A towering cedar believed to be around 1,000 years old stands along the approach to Konpon-dō, creating the atmosphere of an ancient temple together with the long stone stairways and stone lanterns.
Other buildings scattered through the grounds include Goma-dō, Bishamon-dō, Shōrō-dō, Benten-dō, Kaizan-dō, and Niō-mon Gate.
The treasure museum was built in 1972, the 47th year of the Shōwa era, with support from temple supporters and national, prefectural, and municipal authorities after an Eleven-Headed Kannon statue designated an Important Cultural Property was stolen.
A Three-Story Pagoda You Can Climb Inside
The three-story pagoda is a 33.3-meter wooden structure built in 1859, the 6th year of the Ansei era, and is a designated cultural property of Shimane Prefecture.
It is said to have taken 3 generations of local carpenters 33 years to complete, and the carvings of dragons and other figures beneath its eaves are another highlight.
Unusually for a pagoda in Japan, visitors can climb inside and look out over Yasugi's countryside and townscape from the upper level.
Climbing the pagoda requires a reservation at least 1 week in advance, so book early once your itinerary is settled if it is a main reason for your visit.
Best Time for Autumn Leaves and Seasonal Scenery
The extensive grounds cover around 50,000 tsubo, a traditional Japanese unit of area, offering different scenery throughout the year, from spring cherry blossoms and summer greenery to autumn leaves.
The temple is especially known for its fall foliage, with maples usually changing color from mid-November to early December and many visitors coming to see the three-story pagoda framed by autumn leaves.
The timing of the colors varies with the temperature, so check foliage updates before setting out.
Buddhist services and events take place throughout the year, including Kannon's monthly observance on the 17th, Setsubun-e, an observance marking the traditional start of spring, and Mantō-e, a lantern-lighting ceremony; dates can be checked in the official website's services and events information.
Goshuin Temple Stamps, Sutra Copying, and Seated Meditation
Yasugi Kiyomizu-dera is temple 28 on the Chūgoku 33 Kannon Pilgrimage, site 11 on the Izumo no Kuni Shinbutsu Pilgrimage, and temple 21 on the Izumo 33 Kannon Pilgrimage; goshuin, calligraphic stamps commemorating a visit, are available inside the main hall.
Goshuin fees vary by pilgrimage, with stamps for the Chūgoku 33 Kannon Pilgrimage and Izumo no Kuni Shinbutsu Pilgrimage costing 500 yen each.
From April through the end of November, visitors can try Nennen Shakyō, combining copying the Enmei Jukku Kannon Sutra with tracing an image of Kannon, or zazen, seated meditation, with an instruction fee of 1,000 yen per person for each activity.
Sessions begin at 10:00 and 14:00; Nennen Shakyō takes around 30 minutes, or about 1 hour for beginners, and reservations are required at least 1 week ahead, with some dates unavailable because of Buddhist services or other events.
Buddhist Vegetarian Cuisine and Kiyomizu Yōkan in the Temple Grounds
Within the grounds, Kōyōkan is a traditional inn and restaurant whose guest rooms overlook the three-story pagoda, serving shōjin ryōri, Buddhist vegetarian cuisine, made with local ingredients.
Lunch starts at 11:30 with last orders at 13:30, and dinner is served from 18:00 to 21:00 with last entry at 19:00; closing days vary, so checking ahead is advisable.
Kiyomizu Yōkan, a local sweet bean jelly said to have been served at tea gatherings since the Kamakura period, is also sold within the grounds and outside the temple gates.
This yōkan has a simple, traditional flavor, and some varieties are wrapped in bamboo shoot husks. It can be purchased at Endō Zuisendō, Kuroda Sennendō, Nishimura-dō, Fukada Hōryū-dō, and other shops, and is a classic souvenir from a visit to Kiyomizu-dera.
Yasugi Kiyomizu-dera Temple Etiquette: Join Your Palms and Pray Quietly
A typical Buddhist temple visit centers on showing respect to the Buddha and quietly bringing your palms together.
If you are unsure about the details, follow signs or staff instructions and take care not to disturb others at prayer.
Pause at the Entrance Before Entering the Grounds
The approach to Yasugi Kiyomizu-dera passes through gates including Daimon and Niō-mon as you climb the stone steps toward Konpon-dō.
A small bow at the entrance before proceeding can help you shift your attention from sightseeing to worship.
Silence your phone and adjust the volume of conversation with your companions to suit the surroundings.
If there is a line for worship, wait your turn and avoid hurrying across in front of people who are praying.
Follow Local Instructions for Purification and Offerings
A chōzuya, a water pavilion for cleansing your hands before worship, is provided in the grounds of Yasugi Kiyomizu-dera.
If the hand-cleansing area is available, follow the displayed instructions and handle shared utensils carefully.
If you wish to offer incense or candles, first check where and how you may do so.
Keep sleeves and bags away from flames, and make sure an adult stays close to supervise children.
Place Your Offering Quietly and Join Your Palms at Chest Height
When making a monetary offering, wait until the person ahead has finished praying and place your money gently into the offering box.
In typical Buddhist temple worship, bring your palms together in front of your chest without clapping.
As the principal Eleven-Headed Kannon image is normally hidden, it cannot be viewed directly outside the unveiling dates, but you can quietly join your palms and pray in front of Konpon-dō.
Silently express your wishes or gratitude, then make room for the next person when you have finished.
If sutra chanting or a ceremony is underway, avoid disrupting it and stay in the designated area.
Photography and Viewing Etiquette in the Yasugi Kiyomizu-dera Grounds
In the temple grounds, check the instructions for each place before acting to balance sightseeing with consideration for worshipers.
Something allowed outside a building may not be permitted inside, so look for signs whenever you enter a new area.
Understand the Meaning of Japanese Visitor Signs
Short signs can help you decide how to behave.
Familiarize yourself with the meanings and appropriate responses to signs you may see at a temple.
| Sign | Meaning | What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| No photography | Do not take photos or videos | Put your camera away |
| No outdoor shoes | Do not enter wearing shoes | Remove shoes at the designated place |
| No entry | Do not enter beyond this point | Stop before the boundary |
| Please be quiet | Be considerate about noise and voices | Lower your voice |
If you do not understand a sign or the area it applies to, ask a staff member rather than proceeding on your own judgment.
Consider the Location and Other People Before Taking Photos
At any spot you would like to photograph, check whether photos and videos are allowed and whether there are restrictions on flash or camera equipment.
The absence of signs alone should not be taken as permission to take photographs.
Do not photograph worshipers as your main subject without permission, and frame souvenir photos so that other people's faces do not appear prominently.
Even where photography is allowed, avoid occupying passageways or the area directly in front of a worship space for too long.
When stone stairways and viewpoints of the three-story pagoda are crowded during peak foliage season, taking turns and keeping photo stops brief helps everyone enjoy the surroundings.
Respect Shoe-Removal Areas and Visitor Boundaries
Where instructed to remove your shoes, arrange them neatly so others can enter and leave easily.
An open door does not necessarily mean free access; check which areas are open to visitors.
At facilities that generally require reservations, such as the three-story pagoda and treasure museum, stay within the areas and times specified.
View Buddhist statues, furnishings, and architectural decorations without touching them unless expressly told that touching is allowed.
Consider Others When Eating or Taking a Break
Check local instructions about eating and drinking, and avoid spreading out to rest in front of halls or in passageways.
If you wish to eat, check whether a reservation is needed and use a designated dining venue such as Kōyōkan within the grounds to help preserve the quiet around the halls.
Handle wet umbrellas and large bags so they do not touch people or buildings, and organize your belongings away from entrances.
If you cannot find a place to dispose of your trash, take it with you to keep the grounds pleasant for the next visitors.
Useful Buddhist Temple Terms for Your Yasugi Kiyomizu-dera Visit
Becoming familiar with a few temple terms will help you read signs and explanations while visiting at your own pace.
As well as learning the pronunciation, notice whether a word refers to a place or an action.
Basic Terms for Worship and Temple Viewing
If you are unfamiliar with Japanese, saving confusing words from signs in your phone notes can help when asking questions.
Here are some basic temple terms, their pronunciations, and meanings.
| Term | Pronunciation | Basic Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Temple grounds | Keidai | The area within a temple's premises |
| Temple approach | Sandō | The path used to approach a temple for worship |
| Worship visit | Sanpai | Paying respects at a shrine or temple |
| Temple viewing | Haikan | Viewing buildings, Buddhist statues, and similar objects |
| Palms joined in prayer | Gasshō | The gesture of bringing both palms together |
At Yasugi Kiyomizu-dera, you may also see the terms Konpon-dō for the main hall, sanjū-no-tō for the three-story pagoda, and yakubarai for prayers to ward off misfortune.
Learning goshuin, a stamp commemorating a temple visit, and hibutsu, a Buddhist image normally kept from public view, also makes the visitor information easier to understand.
When translating instructions, read the whole sentence, including the relevant building or reception name, rather than relying on individual words.
Ask Questions in Short, Specific Phrases
When checking with staff, ask about the action you want to take, such as whether you may enter or whether you should remove your shoes.
If you have reserved the three-story pagoda or treasure museum, giving your name and explaining that you have a reservation helps reception staff understand your request.
When using a translation tool, showing one question at a time makes communication easier than presenting a long list of requests at once.
If you do not understand an explanation, confirm it while pointing to the direction or place in question.
What to Wear and Bring for a Comfortable Yasugi Kiyomizu-dera Visit
Choose clothes that suit walking and the weather so you can comfortably take in your surroundings during your visit.
Avoid a rushed sightseeing schedule and adjust your plans to your health and your companions' walking pace.
Choose Familiar Walking Shoes and Manageable Bags
The approach to Yasugi Kiyomizu-dera includes long flights of stone steps, so suitable footwear is especially important.
Wear shoes you are used to walking in and clothing that makes it easy to remove your shoes when needed.
If carrying large luggage, take care not to hit people or objects when turning in narrow spaces.
Limit what you bring to what suits the weather and itinerary, and pack it so items are easy to reach when needed.
- An extra layer for changing temperatures
- Rain gear suited to the forecast
- A handkerchief for drying your hands
- Notes for checking essential visitor information
If you plan to receive a goshuin, remember to bring your goshuin-chō stamp book.
Adjust Your Visit to the Weather and Your Companions
When the ground is wet from rain, take shorter steps and make sure your umbrella does not block your view.
From autumn into winter, prepare for chilly mornings and evenings; an extra layer is useful during foliage season.
On weekends during peak autumn foliage, allow extra time for crowds and adapt to conditions in the parking area and on the stone steps.
When visiting with children or anyone who has difficulty walking, avoid rushing ahead and shorten the route if they become tired.
If using public transport for your return, decide when to leave the grounds with the walk to the stop in mind, so you can finish without rushing.
Things to See Near Yasugi Kiyomizu-dera
Gardens and historic sights are scattered around Yasugi Kiyomizu-dera.
Unju-ji Temple
Unju-ji is an old temple of the Myōshin-ji branch of Rinzai Buddhism founded in the early 14th century by the monk Kohō Kakumyō, about 5 minutes by car from Yasugi Kiyomizu-dera.
Behind its main hall, Genroku no Niwa is a dry landscape garden integrated with the hillside; the temple is also known as the Azalea Temple and Satsuki Azalea Temple for its April azaleas and May satsuki blooms.
Adachi Museum of Art
The Adachi Museum of Art, known for its Japanese gardens, is approximately 15 minutes by car from Yasugi Kiyomizu-dera.
Standard individual admission is 2,500 yen for adults, 2,000 yen for university students, 1,000 yen for high school students, and 500 yen for elementary and junior high school students; on Saturdays when public schools are closed, elementary through high school students enter free with student identification, and opening hours are 9:00–17:30 from April to September and 9:00–17:00 from October to March.
A free shuttle bus for museum visitors runs daily from JR Yasugi Station on a first-come, first-served basis, with no reservations.
Wakou Museum
The Wakou Museum (Wakō Hakubutsukan) introduces tatara ironmaking, Japan's traditional method of iron production that supported Yasugi's history, and is about a 15-minute walk from JR Yasugi Station.
Its collections include ironmaking tools designated National Important Tangible Folk Cultural Properties and tenbin fuigo, a traditional balance bellows system.
The museum is closed for building renovations and renewal of its permanent exhibition; standard admission is 310 yen for adults, 210 yen for high school students, and free for elementary and junior high school students, with hours of 9:00–17:00 (last admission 16:30), but check the reopening date and conditions before visiting.
Planning Your Yasugi Kiyomizu-dera Visit
Before visiting Yasugi Kiyomizu-dera, decide what you would like to do and check official information for opening hours, access, and reservation requirements for the three-story pagoda and treasure museum.
In grounds that convey over 1,400 years of history, including the nationally designated Important Cultural Property Konpon-dō and the three-story pagoda you can climb, quietly joining your palms and respecting photography and entry instructions will help you enjoy a peaceful temple visit.
Ask brief questions whenever you are unsure, and make the most of your time at the temple at a pace comfortable for you and your companions.
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