Kyoto Kiyomizu-dera Temple + Uji Byodo-in Temple 1-day tour Day Tours

Must Do Experiences

• Stand on the famous wooden veranda of Kiyomizu-dera for panoramic views of Kyoto's skyline and surrounding lush greenery.

• Toss a coin at the Jishu Shrine behind Kiyomizu-dera and walk between the love stones with your eyes closed to test your true love.

• Admire the stunning reflection of the Phoenix Hall at Byodo-in Temple in the tranquil Aji-ike Pond.

• Stroll through the historic streets of Uji and sample authentic, world-renowned Uji matcha tea and sweets.

Hidden Gems

• Seek out the Otowa Waterfall beneath Kiyomizu-dera's main hall, where catching and drinking from the three separate streams is said to grant longevity, success, or a fortunate love life.

• Look closely at the roof of Byodo-in's Phoenix Hall to spot the golden phoenix statues that only face each other, symbolizing protection and grace.

• Visit the Byodo-in Museum Hosho-kan to see the original roof ornaments and the cloud-riding bodhisattva statues removed from the Phoenix Hall for preservation.

What Makes it Special

• This tour perfectly balances Kyoto's most famous hilltop temple with Uji's architectural masterpiece, offering a diverse glimpse into Japan's spiritual and cultural heritage.

• Enjoy the convenience of a guided bus tour departing from Osaka, eliminating the stress of navigating complex public transit between these two distinct historic cities.

• Benefit from the knowledge of a professional tour guide who brings the rich history of the Heian period and ancient Buddhist traditions to life.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

Spring for cherry blossoms and autumn for fiery maple leaves are the most spectacular, albeit crowded, times to visit these temples. Early morning departures are ideal to beat the midday tour groups, while overcast days often provide the best soft lighting for photographing the intricate details of the Phoenix Hall.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Capture the iconic reflection of the Phoenix Hall in the Aji-ike Pond early in the morning before the wind picks up and ripples the water's surface.

• Use a wide-angle lens on the wooden stage of Kiyomizu-dera to encompass both the massive wooden pillars and the sprawling Kyoto cityscape below.

• Please remember that photography is strictly prohibited inside the main hall of Byodo-in's Phoenix Hall and the interior of Kiyomizu-dera's main sanctuary to preserve the sacred atmosphere.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

When visiting both temples, bow slightly before passing through the torii gates or temple entrances, and avoid walking directly in the center of the pathways, which is traditionally reserved for deities. Speak in hushed tones, especially near the prayer areas, and always ask for permission before photographing monks or shrine maidens. Tipping is not customary in Japan and can be considered rude, so simply offer a sincere thank you to your guide instead.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• Kiyomizu-dera hosts spectacular evening illuminations during the spring cherry blossom season and the autumn foliage season, transforming the temple into a glowing nightscape.

• Byodo-in Temple occasionally holds special spring and autumn exhibitions in the Hosho-kan Museum, showcasing rare Buddhist artifacts not usually on public display.

• The Uji area comes alive in June for the Uji River Cormorant Fishing season, a traditional summer spectacle that many visitors combine with their temple tours.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Exercise caution on the steep, uneven stone steps leading up to Kiyomizu-dera, especially during rainy weather when the mossy stones can become slippery.

• Stay hydrated and utilize the shaded rest areas around the temple grounds during the hot and humid Japanese summer months.

• Keep a close eye on your personal belongings in crowded areas like the Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka slopes, and always stay with your designated tour group.