It was almost closing time when we arrived at Kiyomizudera. They are having their annual autumn illumination display at that time, so we had the luxury to go there at night. The temple is open from 6:00 - 18:00, but during spring and autumn, it's possible to get in from 18:30 - 21:30. It was the last stop of our Kyoto trip, so as tired as we were, we just gut it out hoping that the beauty will somehow relieve us.
From Arashiyama, we took the Hankyu-Arashiyama line (阪急嵐山線) bound for Katsura (桂行), and from Katsura station, transferred to the Hankyu-Kyoto line (阪急京都線) going to Kawaramachi (河原町行). That is normally 220円, but again, it was free because of our Kansai Surutto Pass. From Kawaramachi, we took bus 207 in the direction of Kujoshakomae (九条車庫前) and alighted at the Kiyomizu bus stop (清水道). That's another 220円 fare that became free because of the pass. The temple is 10-15 minutes away from the bus stop.
There were so many people at that time, because illuminations are not just something in Japan, they are really considered as special events. We arrived at around 9:00PM, barely making the closing time. We got our tickets immediately for 400円 each. During daytime, tickets are sold for only 300円. Wasting no time, we got in and took pictures of the gate, the facade and some of the illuminated trees around the temple.
Like Ginkakuji and Kinkakuji, there's a one-way path from the entrance to the exit. Going around the entire place shouldn't be missed. After going through one of the temples, the path will lead you to the majestic view of Kiyomizudera. This was where everyone was jockeying for position. Although tripods were not allowed for maximum space, it was really hard to control such a big crowd. Continuing with the trail will lead to a fork in the path. We took the one that said it was the farther one to the exit, hoping to catch other views of the temple. From what I remember, we got out just before 11:00PM.
Kiyomizudera Official Website
Kiyomizudera from japan-guide
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