Discover the Highlights of Kiyomizu-dera, One of Kyoto’s Most Famous Temples! Recommended Food and Souvenirs in the Kiyomizu-Gojo Area

Kiyomizu-dera Temple is one of Kyoto’s most popular sightseeing spots. Known as part of the “Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto,” it’s also a UNESCO World Heritage site that attracts visitors from around the world.

The main hall’s stage, famously known for the Japanese phrase “to jump off the stage at Kiyomizu,” is impressive and offers a breathtaking view over Kyoto city.

In this article, we’ll dive into Kiyomizu-dera’s history and explore its many attractions. We’ll also introduce some recommended sightseeing spots, dining options, and souvenir shops in the surrounding area.

What is Kiyomizu-dera?

Kiyomizu-dera Temple is one of Japan’s most famous temples, widely recognized by Japanese people and visitors alike as a landmark of Kyoto. Many Japanese people remember learning about it in school or visiting on school trips.

In 1994, it was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the “Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto.” Today, it’s a globally popular tourist destination known around the world.

The temple’s iconic main stage, famously referenced in the Japanese expression “to jump off the stage at Kiyomizu,” offers stunning views and is a symbol of the temple. Another popular feature is the Otowa Waterfall, from which Kiyomizu-dera takes its name and which is said to grant wishes to those who drink from it.

The nearby Sannenzaka (Three-Year Slope) street, lined with traditional wooden buildings, adds to the area’s charming, old-fashioned atmosphere.

Kiyomizu-dera is one of Kyoto’s most popular spots, attracting visitors throughout the year. It’s famous for cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant autumn leaves in fall, with breathtaking views from the main stage.

Visitor Information for Kiyomizu-dera

Don’t miss out on your chance to explore Kiyomizu-dera by arriving outside of visiting hours! Here’s all the essential information on visiting hours and admission fees so you can plan ahead.

Visiting Hours

The temple is generally open from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., though closing time extends to 6:30 p.m. during certain seasons. There are also special nighttime viewing periods, when the temple stays open until 9:00 p.m. Kiyomizu-dera is open every day of the year.

For specific dates and seasonal hours, check the official Kiyomizu-dera website.

Admission Fees

There is no fee to enter the temple grounds, but admission is required for certain areas, like the main hall with the famous stage.

Admission fees are as follows:

• Children under school age: Free
• Adults (high school age and above): ¥400
• Elementary and middle school students: ¥200

Kiyomizu-dera Visitor Information

Address: 1-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, Japan

Map: Google Maps

Phone Number: 075-551-1234

Closed Days: None (open year-round)

Hours: 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (with seasonal variations)

Fees: Admission fees apply for certain areas

Official Website: Otowa-san Kiyomizu-dera

How to Get to Kiyomizu-dera

Here are several ways to reach Kiyomizu-dera Temple, whether by train, plane, or even bicycle.

By Train

Your train route and exit station will vary depending on the line you take.

• From JR Tokaido Shinkansen or Tokaido Main Line
  Exit at JR Kyoto Station, then take the Kyoto City Bus No. 206 towards “Higashiyama-dori Kitaoji Bus Terminal” or No. 100 towards “Kiyomizu-dera Gion Ginkaku-ji.” Get off at the “Gojozaka” bus stop and walk about 10 minutes to the temple. This journey takes around 30 minutes from Kyoto Station.Alternatively, on weekends and holidays, you can take the Kyoto Bus No. 18 towards “Ohara” and get off at “Gojozaka,” followed by a 10-minute walk.
• From Hankyu Railway
  Exit at Kawaramachi Station, or if you’re using Keihan Railway, exit at Gion-Shijo Station. Take the Kyoto City Bus No. 207 towards “Tofukuji / Kujo Depot” and get off at the “Kiyomizu-michi” stop, followed by a 10-minute walk.Keihan buses (routes 83, 85, 87, or 88) also stop at “Kiyomizu-michi” or “Gojozaka.” From there, it’s a 10-minute walk to the temple.
  Travel time from either Kawaramachi or Gion-Shijo Station is about 20 minutes.

By Plane

• From Itami Airport (Osaka)
  Take the Osaka Airport Limousine Bus to JR Kyoto Station (about 60 minutes).
• From Kansai International Airport
  Take the JR “Haruka” limited express from Kansai Airport Station to Kyoto Station (about 80 minutes). You can also take a limousine bus operated by Kansai Airport Transportation or Keihan Bus to JR Kyoto Station (about 90 minutes).

After arriving at Kyoto Station, follow the steps in the “By Train” section above to reach Kiyomizu-dera.

Overview of Kiyomizu-dera

Kiyomizu-dera Temple was first founded in 778 by the monk Enchin and was officially established by the general Sakanoue no Tamuramaro in 798 during the early Heian period.

The temple is the head of the Kita Hosso sect of Buddhism, and its mountain name is Otowa-san. It is also the 16th site on the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage.

Located on the mountainside of Otowa-yama in eastern Kyoto, the temple grounds span around 130,000 square meters and include about 30 buildings, including halls and pagodas. Many of these structures are designated as National Treasures or Important Cultural Properties.

The temple’s main deity is the Eleven-Faced Thousand-Armed Kannon Bodhisattva. In 1994, Kiyomizu-dera was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site as part of the “Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto.”

History of Kiyomizu-dera

Kiyomizu-dera Temple traces its origins back to the late Nara period. According to a historical text called Zoku Gunsho Ruiju, the temple’s founding began with Kenshin, later known as Enchin, a monk who trained in Nara. One night, he had a vision of an elderly man in white robes who instructed him, “Go north to find a pure spring.”

Following this dream, Kenshin traveled north and discovered a waterfall with clear, flowing water on Mount Otowa in Kyoto. Near this waterfall, he encountered a hermit named Gyoei Koji, who gave him a sacred piece of wood and instructed him to carve a statue of the Thousand-Armed Kannon. Kenshin followed this guidance, enshrining the sacred figure beside the waterfall, which later became known as Otowa no Taki, the “Pure Waterfall.” This marked the beginning of Kiyomizu-dera in 778.

Years later, Kenshin met Sakanoue no Tamuramaro, a notable general of the time, who was deeply inspired by Kenshin’s teachings. Together, they crafted a gilded statue of the Eleven-Faced Forty-Armed Kannon Bodhisattva. In 798, just after the capital moved to Kyoto, they built the temple’s main hall at Otowa no Taki and placed the statue inside. This temple was named Kiyomizu-dera, meaning “Pure Water Temple,” after the nearby waterfall. In those early days, it was also called Kita Kannon-ji.

Over the centuries, Kiyomizu-dera often found itself in conflicts with neighboring temples. In 959, the temple clashed with Gion Shrine (now Yasaka Shrine), and in 1213, it had a major dispute with Seikan-ji Temple, which also drew in the influential Enryaku-ji and Kofuku-ji temples. Such conflicts led to the destruction of Kiyomizu-dera’s buildings at least ten times.

However, each time Kiyomizu-dera was damaged or burned down, devoted believers helped to rebuild it, preserving its legacy to this day.

Highlights of Kiyomizu-dera

One of the most captivating features of Kiyomizu-dera Temple is its stunning scenery. With breathtaking views year-round, every angle offers a picturesque moment.

Here are some of the top highlights to explore at Kiyomizu-dera.

Nio-mon Gate

The Nio-mon Gate marks the entrance to Kiyomizu-dera and serves as the temple’s main gate. Impressive in size, it spans about 10 meters in width, 5 meters in depth, and stands 14 meters tall.

The current gate, a designated Important Cultural Property of Japan, was rebuilt in the early 1500s after the original structure was destroyed in the Sengoku period. In 2003, the gate underwent extensive restoration, and it now stands proudly, welcoming visitors with a refreshed look.

Sai-mon Gate

The Sai-mon (West Gate) is located just to the right, behind the Nio-mon Gate, as you enter Kiyomizu-dera’s grounds.

This gate is thought to symbolize the entrance to paradise and is a popular spot for viewing beautiful sunsets.

The current Sai-mon Gate was rebuilt in 1631 and is now designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan.

Shoro (Bell Tower)

The Shoro, or Bell Tower, houses a large bronze bell and is located to the left behind the Nio-mon Gate, just as you enter the Kiyomizu-dera grounds.

Originally built in the Heian period, it was relocated and rebuilt at its current spot in 1607 during the Edo period.

The tower is crafted in the Momoyama architectural style, featuring intricate carvings of peony flowers, chrysanthemum designs, and decorative elements with mythical creatures like tapirs and elephants.

This tower is also designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan.

Sanju-no-to (Three-Story Pagoda)

The Sanju-no-to, or Three-Story Pagoda, is located to the right behind the Nio-mon Gate, just beyond the West Gate. Alongside the Main Hall, it is one of the iconic structures of Kiyomizu-dera.

Standing at around 31 meters, it is the tallest three-story pagoda in Japan. Originally built in 847 during the Heian period, the current structure dates back to its reconstruction in 1632 during the Edo period.

Inside, it enshrines a statue of Dainichi Nyorai (Cosmic Buddha). Vibrant paintings of esoteric Buddhist figures, heavenly beings, and dragons adorn the walls and ceiling.

The pagoda is also beautifully illuminated during special evening viewings, adding to its allure.

Zuigu-do Hall

Zuigu-do Hall stands near the center of the temple grounds, beside the Sutra Hall. As the name suggests, it enshrines the deity Daizuigu Bosatsu, who is known for blessings in matchmaking, safe childbirth, and child-rearing.

The current building was reconstructed in 1718 during the Edo period.

One of the hall’s unique experiences is the “Womb Path” (Tainai Meguri), where visitors walk through complete darkness, guided only by a large rosary bead chain. This symbolizes a spiritual journey and new beginnings.

The experience costs 100 yen, with the last admission at 4:00 pm.

Kyo-do Hall

Kyo-do Hall stands near the center of the temple grounds, to the right of Zuigu-do Hall.

The current building dates back to 1633 (Edo period) and is designated as an Important Cultural Property. It was restored in 2000.

Inside, it enshrines statues of the Buddha Triad. The ceiling is decorated with an ink painting of a coiled dragon by artist Nobumoto Okamura.

Originally built in the mid-Heian period, Kyo-do Hall once held a complete set of Buddhist scriptures (Issaikyo), attracting scholar monks from all over Japan. However, over time, the hall faded from historical records, and the location of the scriptures remains unknown.

Main Hall

The Main Hall (Hondo) is Kiyomizu-dera’s iconic and central building, located toward the back of the temple grounds. One of its most famous features is the high platform known as the “Stage of Kiyomizu,” which extends outward from the hall.

Built on the cliffside of Mount Otowa, the current structure was rebuilt in 1633 during the early Edo period and is designated a National Treasure. It enshrines the temple’s main deity, the Thousand-Armed Kannon.

The Stage of Kiyomizu rises about 13 meters (equivalent to the fourth floor of a building). Remarkably, it was constructed using the traditional Japanese kakezukuri method, which involves interlocking wooden beams without using any nails. This lattice structure allows the wood to support itself, providing strength and stability on the steep slope.

Eighteen keyaki (Japanese zelkova) pillars, each over 400 years old, support the stage, with some reaching 12 meters in length and 2 meters in circumference.

From the stage, you can enjoy one of the best views of Kyoto!

Otowa Waterfall

Otowa Waterfall is one of the most iconic spots at Kiyomizu-dera, along with the Main Hall and Three-Story Pagoda.

Located near the back of the temple grounds, this 4-meter-high waterfall flows down from the mountainside. It’s the origin of Kiyomizu-dera’s name and was once known as “Golden Water” and “Water of Longevity.”

The waterfall splits into three streams, each believed to offer unique blessings when you drink from them: longevity (right), success in love (center), and academic achievement (left). Visitors use ladles provided at the site to catch and drink the water as they make their wishes.

Oku-no-in Hall

Oku-no-in Hall is located at the back of Kiyomizu-dera, directly above the Otowa Waterfall.

The current building dates back to 1633, from the early Edo period, the same year as the Main Hall. Like the Main Hall, Oku-no-in was built using the traditional “kakezukuri” method, with no nails, making it strong enough to stand on the steep slope.

It was beautifully restored in 2017 and is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan.

Joju-in Hall

Joju-in Hall is located on the left side of Kiyomizu-dera’s central grounds.

Originally, it served as the residence of Gan’a, who was responsible for rebuilding Kiyomizu-dera after a major fire. Later, it became a key hall in managing temple grounds and finances.

Joju-in is particularly famous for its stunning Japanese garden, known as the “Moon Garden,” considered one of Kyoto’s finest. This garden is open to the public only during special periods each year.

Sen-tai Sekibutsu Group (1,000 Stone Statues)

The Sen-tai Sekibutsu Group, located on the left side of Kiyomizu-dera’s central grounds, is an impressive collection of stone statues.

These statues were originally enshrined throughout Kyoto city. During the Meiji era’s anti-Buddhist movement, local residents brought them to Kiyomizu-dera to protect them from being destroyed.

To this day, local volunteers continue to care for the statues, including changing the protective cloth coverings (maetare) that drape them.

Koyasu Pagoda

The Koyasu Pagoda is a three-story pagoda located on a hill to the south of Kiyomizu-dera’s main grounds.

While the exact date of its founding is unknown, it’s said that Emperor Shomu and Empress Komyo built it as a place of prayer.

The current structure dates back to 1500 (Sengoku period) and is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. Inside, it enshrines Koyasu Kannon (the Thousand-Armed Kannon), known for granting safe childbirth, making it a cherished spot for those praying for a smooth delivery.

Autumn Leaves

At Kiyomizu-dera, the leaves start to change colors in mid-November, offering a beautiful display of autumn foliage. The best viewing time is usually from mid-November to early December, but it’s a good idea to check online for the latest foliage updates before you visit.

During the day, you can see the bright, fiery colors of the leaves in full detail. The view from the famous “Kiyomizu Stage” is especially stunning, with a vast sea of red and orange leaves spread out before you.

At night, the temple grounds are illuminated, creating a magical scene with a blue light symbolizing the compassion of Kannon. From below, you’ll also get a view of the grand Three-Story Pagoda, one of the largest in Japan, glowing brilliantly against the autumn colors.

Don’t miss the chance to stop, take a picture, and soak in the mystical atmosphere near the pagoda’s base.

Since the autumn season is very popular, visiting in the early morning or late afternoon on a weekday is ideal for a quieter experience.

Goshuin: Temple Stamps

When you visit Kiyomizu-dera, be sure to get a goshuin, a special stamp given at temples and shrines in Japan. A goshuin is a seal stamped in your notebook, often accompanied by beautiful calligraphy that includes the date of your visit, the temple or shrine’s name, and sometimes the name of the deity or Buddha enshrined there.

At Kiyomizu-dera, the goshuin serves as a memento of your visit and is also thought to offer protection. The temple offers 12 different types of goshuin, which can be obtained at three locations:

1. Nokyo-sho next to the Main Hall: Here, you’ll find goshuin from various pilgrimage routes like Saigoku (West Japan) 33 Temples, as well as stamps for Zenkyo-ji Hall, Oku-no-in, and more.
2. Nokyo-sho next to Amida Hall: This offers goshuin related to Honen Shonin’s 25 Sacred Sites and the Six Amida pilgrimage of Kyoto.
3. Nokyo-sho near Otowa Waterfall: This is where you can get the stamp dedicated to Fudo Myo-o.

If you’re unsure which goshuin to choose, a good approach is to start with one from the main hall you visited, such as the iconic Kiyomizu Stage.

Hours and Fees

Each nokyo-sho has specific hours:

• Next to the Main Hall: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm (or 6:30 pm, varies by season)
• Next to Amida Hall: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm (or 6:30 pm, varies by season)
• Near Otowa Waterfall: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Joju-in Temple: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm (open only in spring and autumn)

The fee for each goshuin is 300 yen.

Recommended Sightseeing Spots Around Kiyomizu-dera

The charm of Kiyomizu-dera goes beyond its own beauty. The surrounding area is packed with exciting places to explore, making the journey to and from the temple just as enjoyable!

Jishu Shrine

Jishu Shrine is located just north of Kiyomizu-dera’s main hall. This historic shrine dates back to Japan’s mythological era, even before the nation was founded. The shrine’s main deity is Okuninushi, and for centuries it has been a popular place for people—including emperors, royals, warriors, and poets—to pray for good relationships.

Today, Jishu Shrine is especially famous for the “Love Fortune Stones.” These two knee-high stones, set about 10 meters apart in front of the main hall, are known for a unique tradition. If you walk from one stone to the other with your eyes closed and reach the second stone, it’s said that your romantic wishes will come true.

Interestingly, recent research has shown that these stones date back to Japan’s ancient Jomon period.

Visitor Information for Jishu Shrine

• Address: 317 Kiyomizu 1-chome, Higashiyama, Kyoto, Japan
• Map: Google Maps
• Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Official Website: Jishu Shrine – For Love and Relationship Blessings

Sanneizaka (Sannenzaka)

Sanneizaka, also called Sannenzaka, is a charming sloped path and historic town area near Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Known for its traditional buildings, it has been designated an Important Preservation District for Groups of Historic Buildings.

This stone-paved path, about 100 meters long, connects Kiyomizu-dera with Yasaka Shrine to the north. The steep slope is lined with souvenir shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it a popular spot for strolling and shopping.

Visitor Information for Sanneizaka (Sannenzaka)

• Address: Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, Japan
• Map: Google Maps

Ichinenzaka and Ninenzaka (Ninenzaka)

Ninenzaka, also known as Ninenzaka, is a historic slope and town area that follows Sanneizaka (Sannenzaka) on the path from Kiyomizu-dera Temple to Yasaka Shrine. It’s famous for once being home to the artist Yumeji Takehisa.

Ichinenzaka is another stone-paved slope that extends westward from the northern part of Ninenzaka. Though smaller than Sanneizaka, both slopes feature traditional stone paving and preserved historic buildings.

While you’ll find souvenir shops and cafes here, these areas have a slightly more local, residential feel compared to the bustling Sanneizaka.

Visitor Information for Ichinenzaka and Ninenzaka (Ninenzaka)

• Address: Masuya-cho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, Japan
• Map: Google Maps

Yasaka Shrine

Yasaka Shrine, located about 1 km northwest of Kiyomizu-dera Temple, is one of Kyoto’s oldest shrines. Known locally as “Gion-san,” it’s famous for the Gion Matsuri, a grand summer festival counted among Japan’s top three Gion festivals.

Founded in 656 during the late Asuka period, Yasaka Shrine enshrines the deity Susanoo-no-Mikoto, his consort Kushinadahime-no-Mikoto, and their eight children, making it the head shrine for all Yasaka shrines and Susanoo-no-Mikoto shrines in Japan.

Within the shrine grounds, you’ll find many important cultural properties, including the main hall, the impressive tower gate, and the stone torii gate.

Visitor Information for Yasaka Shrine

• Address: 625 Gion Kitagawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, Japan
• Map: Google Maps
• Phone: 075-561-6155
• Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Official Website: Yasaka Shrine

Rengeo-in Temple

Rengeo-in Temple, located about 1.5 km southwest of Kiyomizu-dera Temple, was founded in 1155 during the late Heian period. Built on the site of the residence of Emperor Go-Shirakawa, this temple is also known as “Sanjusangen-do.”

The main hall is famously long, extending from north to south, and its name, “Sanjusangen-do,” comes from the 33 spaces between the columns inside. The number 33 symbolizes the forms that the Kannon Bodhisattva is believed to transform into.

The temple houses the principal statue, a seated Thousand-Armed Kannon, a National Treasure standing over 3 meters tall. Additionally, 1,000 life-sized standing statues of the Thousand-Armed Kannon are displayed on tiered platforms. These statues, designated as Important Cultural Properties, create an awe-inspiring sight.

Visitor Information for Rengeo-in Temple (Sanjusangen-do)

• Address: 657 Sanjusangendo Mawaricho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, Japan
• Map: Google Maps
• Phone: 075-561-0467
• Hours:
  • April 1 – November 15: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • November 16 – March 31: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
  • Last admission 30 minutes before closing.
• Official Website: Rengeo-in Sanjusangen-do

Recommended Food Spots Around Kiyomizu-dera

After exploring Kiyomizu-dera, why not take a break and enjoy a delicious meal? Here are some of the best food spots around the temple, from famous restaurants to hidden gems loved by locals. Relax and recharge with some great food!

Okabeya’s Yudofu (Tofu Hot Pot)

Okabeya is a traditional tofu restaurant located along Sannenzaka near Kiyomizu-dera. Their signature dish, yudofu (tofu hot pot), is a must-try and very popular. They also serve a variety of tofu dishes like tofu dengaku (grilled tofu with miso) and tofu rice bowls, plus unique tofu-based sweets.

If you’re visiting Kiyomizu-dera, don’t miss this delicious spot!

Okabeya Information

• Address: Kiyomizu Temple Gate Area, 2 Chome, Kiyomizu, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto
• Map: Google Maps
• Phone: 050-5590-4165
• Closed: Irregular
• Hours: 10:30–18:00 (Last order at 17:00); extended hours during some seasons

Yumeji Café Goryukaku: Western Dishes with Kyoto Vegetables and Tofu Desserts

Yumeji Café Goryukaku is a charming café set in a historic Western-style building from 1923, designated as a National Cultural Property. The vintage interior offers a nostalgic atmosphere.

The café’s owner has a family connection to Takehisa Yumeji, a well-known artist who once lived nearby, and some of his works are displayed inside.

The menu features Western-style dishes with a Kyoto twist, using locally sourced Kyoto vegetables in items like curry, hamburg steaks, pasta, and hot sandwiches. For dessert, try their unique tofu-based sweets, made with tofu from the nearby Okabeya restaurant.

Yumeji Café Goryukaku Information

• Address: Kiyomizu Temple Gate Area, 2 Chome, Kiyomizu, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto
• Map: Google Maps
• Phone: 075-541-7114
• Closed: Irregular
• Hours: 11:00–17:00

Nichigetsuan: Kyoto Kaiseki Cuisine

Nichigetsuan is a popular restaurant offering delicious Kyoto kaiseki (traditional multi-course) meals.

Located near Kiyomizu Temple, the restaurant offers a lovely view of the temple, making it a great spot for a relaxing meal. It’s known for its use of local Kyoto ingredients like Kyoto vegetables and yuba (tofu skin), allowing visitors to enjoy authentic flavors in a casual setting.

Unagi (grilled eel) dishes, such as unagi don (eel rice bowl), are also very popular.

Nichigetsuan Information

• Address: 2-232-2 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto
• Map: Google Maps
• Phone: 075-561-0077
• Closed: Open daily
• Hours: 10:30 AM – 9:00 PM

Shokudo Endo’s Maguro Bowl

Shokudo Endo, located just near Sannenzaka, is a popular spot for tuna dishes.

In addition to items like tuna katsu (fried tuna cutlet), sweet soy-glazed tuna, and ginger-simmered fatty tuna, their most popular item is the maguro don (tuna bowl). The tuna bowl comes with a variety of toppings, including options like avocado, kimchi with chili oil, and grated yam.

Each maguro bowl is topped with generously thick slices of tuna, piled high for a truly satisfying meal. Due to its popularity, the shop often sells out.

Shokudo Endo Information

• Address: 2-241-4 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto
• Map: Google Maps
• Phone: 075-525-5752
• Closed: Irregular days
• Hours: 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM (closes when sold out)

Recommended Souvenirs from Kiyomizu-dera

One of the joys of travel is finding unique souvenirs! Here are some top picks you should consider when visiting Kiyomizu-dera.

Some items come individually wrapped, making them easy to share with friends or coworkers.

Ajari Mochi

Ajari Mochi is a popular Japanese sweet made by Ajari Mochi Honpo Mangetsu, a traditional confectionery shop founded in 1856. While the main store is in Kyoto’s Sakyo Ward, you’ll also find a branch near Kiyomizu-dera on Sannenzaka.

Ajari Mochi was first created in the Taisho era by the second-generation owner. This treat features a soft and moist rice cake filled with sweet red bean paste made from premium Tanba Dainagon beans. The name Ajari refers to a high-ranking monk, and the shape of the mochi resembles the bamboo hats worn by monks training on Mt. Hiei.

Legend has it that monks would eat mochi as a way to curb hunger during their training. The unique texture and flavor make this a must-try souvenir for anyone visiting the area.

Yatsuhashi & Nama Yatsuhashi

Yatsuhashi and Nama Yatsuhashi are classic Kyoto sweets and popular souvenirs. Among the many shops making Yatsuhashi, Honke Nishio Yatsuhashi, with over 300 years of history, is a standout. You’ll find a branch near Kiyomizu-dera on Sannenzaka.

Exploring the variety of flavors is a fun experience unique to a Yatsuhashi specialty shop!

What is Yatsuhashi?

Yatsuhashi is a type of hard rice cracker made from rice flour, cinnamon, and sugar, giving it a crispy texture and a rich cinnamon aroma. Shaped like long, curved strips, this treat has been enjoyed in Kyoto for centuries.

What is Nama Yatsuhashi?

Nama Yatsuhashi, a newer version created after WWII, uses the soft dough before baking. It’s typically wrapped around sweet red bean paste but now comes with a wide range of fillings, making it a must-try alongside traditional Yatsuhashi.

Cha no Ka

Kyoto is well-known for its tea culture, thanks to its proximity to Uji City, one of Japan’s most famous tea regions, and its rich tea ceremony history. One especially popular tea-based sweet is Cha no Ka, a delicate langue de chat cookie made by the pastry shop Malebranche.

The cookie dough is made with high-quality tea leaves from Uji, bringing out the rich, bold flavor of o-koicha (strong green tea). Sandwiched between two of these fragrant green tea cookies is a layer of white chocolate, perfectly complementing the tea’s deep aroma. A must-try for tea lovers!

Suzunari Dango & Suzunari Monaka

Suzunari Dango and Suzunari Monaka are specialties from the shop Jumonji. These treats are inspired by kagura suzu (sacred Shinto bells), symbolizing a wish for ongoing happiness, making them a unique and meaningful souvenir.

The Suzunari Dango are small, bite-sized rice dumplings skewered three per stick, and are especially popular among women due to their cute appearance. They come in five flavors: sweet red bean, mitarashi (sweet soy sauce glaze), black sesame soy sauce, Kyoto-style white miso, and isobe yaki (grilled with seaweed). They’re sold in sets of five, but if dining in, you can order just two sticks.

The Suzunari Monaka is also inspired by the sacred bells, featuring a bell-shaped monaka wafer filled with a unique blend of hojicha (roasted green tea) cream, fresh cream, and cheese cream. With its adorable shape and unexpected flavors, it’s a local favorite!

We’ve introduced some must-see highlights of Kiyomizu-dera Temple! As one of Kyoto’s most famous spots, Kiyomizu-dera has many unique features beyond its well-known attractions. The area around the temple is also rich with historical sites. Enjoy a stroll through Kiyomizu-dera and its nearby spots to fully experience the history and charm of Kyoto.

▼ Related Articles for Kyoto Sightseeing