kiyomizu-dera Temple Entrance Fee

Kiyomizu-dera Temple Entrance Fee: Your Complete Guide to Tickets & Pricing

Okay, I need to confess something. When I first planned my trip to Kyoto, I was so focused on which temples to visit that I completely forgot to budget for entrance fees. I know, rookie mistake! I remember standing in front of the massive gate at Kiyomizu-dera, wallet in hand, wondering, "Wait, how much is this going to cost?" If you're planning your own visit to this iconic UNESCO World Heritage site, you're probably wondering the exact same thing. After visiting multiple times (and learning from my initial oversight), I've got the complete breakdown for you. Let's talk about the Kiyomizu-dera temple entrance fee, what it includes, and how to make the most of every yen.

What is the Current Admission Fee for Kiyomizu-dera?

This is the number one question, and I'm happy to give you the straight answer. As of my last visit, the standard admission fee to enter the main precincts of Kiyomizu-dera is 400 yen for adults. That's roughly about $3.50 USD. Honestly, for one of Japan's most famous temples, that's an incredible deal. But wait, there's a little more to it depending on your age and group.

Adult vs. Child Pricing: A Detailed Breakdown

The pricing is very straightforward and based on Japanese school levels, which is common throughout Japan.

Standard Adult Fee (Middle School and Older)

If you're a middle school student or older, you'll pay the full adult price of 400 yen. This applies to all international visitors as well. There's no foreigner tax or anything like that everyone pays the same fair price.

Standard Child Fee (Elementary School Students)

For elementary school-aged children (typically 6 to 12 years old), the fee is reduced. I couldn't find a specific listed price for just elementary students on my last visit, as they are often included in group or family rates, but it is significantly less than the adult fee.

Special Pricing & Discounts

While individual travelers all pay the standard rate, there are a few scenarios where pricing differs.

Discounts for Groups and School Trips

If you're traveling with a large organized group (usually 30 people or more), you might be eligible for a discounted group rate. Similarly, Japanese school trips receive special pricing. For the solo traveler or small family, you'll be paying the standard 400 yen, which is still very affordable.

Free Admission for Toddlers and Younger Children

Good news for families with little ones! Children under elementary school age (generally 5 years and under) get free admission. This is fantastic for making a family trip to Kyoto more budget-friendly.

My Takeaway: For the vast majority of adult tourists, budget 400 yen per person. It's a fixed, transparent price that's easy to plan for.

Opening Hours and Best Times to Visit

Your ticket price gets you access during the temple's standard operating hours, which change seasonally to account for daylight.

Generally, Kiyomizu-dera opens at 6:00 AM and closes at 6:00 PM. However, closing time can be extended to 6:30 PM or even 9:00 PM during specific seasonal events in the summer and autumn. I highly recommend double-checking the official website just before your visit for the most accurate times.

Seasonal Changes and Special Night Openings

Kiyomizu-dera is famous for two things: its stage and its stunning seasonal views. Those views are celebrated with special events.

Cherry Blossom and Autumn Illumination Dates

During the cherry blossom season (usually late March to early April) and the autumn foliage season (usually mid-November to early December), the temple holds special night illuminations. This is a crucial point: the entrance fee for these events is different. It is typically higher than the standard 400 yen, often around 600 yen or so. You're paying a premium for a truly magical experience seeing the temple lit up against the night sky with pink blossoms or fiery red leaves is absolutely worth it, in my opinion.

Understanding the Difference in Experience (Day vs. Night)

A daytime visit allows you to see all the intricate details of the architecture and enjoy the sprawling views of Kyoto. A night illumination visit is all about the dramatic, romantic atmosphere. I've done both, and they feel like completely different places. If you can only choose one, I'd lean towards the daytime for your first visit to see everything clearly.

Where and How to Purchase Tickets

This is the easy part. You cannot buy tickets online in advance for the general admission. You purchase them directly at the ticket booth right before you enter the main paid area of the temple complex. You'll pay in cash (yen). While some larger attractions in Japan are moving toward credit cards, it's always best to have cash on hand for temple entries. The process is swift and efficient.

The Difference: Entrance Fee vs. General Expenses

This is a key budgeting tip. Your 400 yen entrance fee only covers access to the main temple grounds, including the famous stage, the Otowa Waterfall, and Jishu Shrine. It does not cover:

• Omamori (lucky charms) or ema (wooden wishing plaques)
• Fortunes (omikuji)
• Food and drinks from the stalls along the approach to the temple (Sannen-zaka and Ninen-zaka)
• Entry to some specific sub-temples within the complex that may charge a separate, smaller fee

So, while the entrance is cheap, budget a little extra for souvenirs and snacks!

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What's Included in Your Ticket? Exploring the Main Grounds

So, what do you get for your 400 yen? A lot! This fee grants you access to the heart of the temple:

• The Main Hall (Hondo) and Veranda: This is the famous wooden stage that juts out over the hillside, offering breathtaking views of Kyoto. It's the reason you're here.
• Otowa Waterfall: Where you can drink from the three streams of water for health, longevity, and success in studies. (Pro tip: it's considered greedy to drink from all three! Choose one.)
• Jishu Shrine: The shrine dedicated to love, where you can try to walk between two "love stones" with your eyes closed for luck in finding romance.
• Various other halls and pagodas within the main compound.

You can easily spend a few hours exploring every corner.

Tips to Save Money and Avoid Scams

The great news is that there are no scams around the official entrance fee. The price is clearly posted, and the process is honest. To save money:

• Bring exact change to speed up the ticket line.
• Pack a water bottle and snack, though do try the local matcha soft serve it's a worthy splurge!
• Remember that the approach to the temple (the historic streets) is free to explore and incredibly beautiful.

Is the Kiyomizu-dera Entrance Fee Worth It? A Visitor Perspective

Absolutely, 100%, without a doubt, yes. For less than the price of a coffee, you get to experience one of the most iconic and beautiful landmarks in all of Japan. The view from the stage alone is worth ten times the price of admission. It's a must-do in Kyoto, and the fee is incredibly reasonable compared to many other major global attractions.

Conclusion: Planning Your Visit to Kiyomizu-dera

Planning your visit is simple. Have 400 yen in cash ready per adult, and consider going early in the morning to avoid the biggest crowds. If you're visiting during peak cherry blossom or autumn season, be prepared for larger crowds and the possibility of a separate, higher fee for the night illuminations.

If you're on the fence about whether to go, here's my advice: just go. It's a small fee for an unforgettable experience that defines Kyoto. It's worth every single yen.

This information is based on my personal visits and research from the temple's official sources. Pricing and hours are subject to change, so I always recommend checking the official Kiyomizu-dera website for the most current information before your trip.

FAQ About Kiyomizu-dera Temple Entrance Fee

1. How much is the entrance fee to Kiyomizu-dera Temple?

• 👤 Adults: ¥500
• 🧒 Junior high & elementary students: ¥200
• 👶 Children under elementary school age: Free

Fees apply to the main hall and viewing platform. No reservation required; pay onsite.

2. Are there discounts or free entry options?

Visitors with a disability certificate and one accompanying person may enter free of charge. Educational institution representatives may also qualify for free entry during official events with ID verification.

3. Is the fee different during special nighttime viewings?

No. The entrance fee remains the same—¥500 for adults and ¥200 for students—even during seasonal nighttime illuminations in spring, summer, and autumn.

4. What are the temple’s opening hours?

• 🌅 Regular hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• 🌃 Nighttime viewing (seasonal): until 9:30 PM (last entry 9:00 PM)

Hours vary by season. Check [official schedule](http://www.kiyomizudera.or.jp/en/visit/) for updates.

5. How do I pay the entrance fee?

Payment is made onsite at the entrance. No online booking or advance payment is required. Cash is preferred; card acceptance may vary.