Is it true that a temple’s name can describe its most distinguishing feature? Kiyomizu-dera stands before us. Kiyomizu means “pure water”. This name hints at the temple’s origins and its most sacred element.
Kiyomizu-dera is a celebrated temple in Kyoto. It was founded in 780 near the Otowa Waterfall. The falls give the temple its name.
Imagine this place in the late Nara period. Enchin Shonin had a vision. The vision told him to build a temple by the Otowa spring.
Later in 798 General Sakanoue Tamuramaro improved the site. He included a large hall from Emperor Kammu’s palace. The emperor wanted to escape Buddhist monasteries’ influence. Rivalry grew between Kofuku-ji and Kiyomizu-dera temples. Both held regional power.
The current buildings were rebuilt in 1633. Tokugawa Iemitsu ordered the reconstruction. The builders used no nails. The temple gets its name from the waterfall within the hills.
Let’s talk about Kiyomizu-dera’s wooden stage. It juts out from the main hall. This platform stands 13 meters above the hillside. It offers great views of cherry and maple trees. Imagine the colors in spring and fall. The main hall and stage were built without nails. It houses a statue of Kannon with eleven faces and a thousand arms.
The Japanese say “to jump off the stage at Kiyomizu”. It means “to take the plunge”. People believed wishes would come true if they survived a jump from the stage. During the Edo period 234 jumps were recorded. Most jumpers survived. The practice was banned in 1872.
Behind Kiyomizu-dera stands Jishu Shrine. This shrine honors the deity of love and matchmaking. Two stones sit 18 meters apart in front of the shrine. Close your eyes and walk from one to the other. Success brings luck in love. Someone guiding you means you need an intermediary in your love life.
Below the main hall lies the Otowa Waterfall. Its waters divide into three streams. Visitors drink from cups attached to long poles. One stream brings longevity. Another brings success in school. The last brings a fortunate love life. Drinking from all three is greedy.
The temple also has the Tainai Meguri. It is a dark tunnel. This symbolizes the womb of Daizuiku Bosatsu.
Kiyomizu-dera is not just a temple. It’s a landmark. It represents centuries of faith. Its history and unique features make it special. Kiyomizu-dera continues to inspire awe. It encourages visitors to appreciate pure beginnings.