This temple complex contains several interesting attractions. The main
hall’s wooden veranda is supported by hundreds of pillars and
offers incredible views over the city. Jishu-jinja, the
love-themed shrine sells countless charms to help one snag the object of your
love. It features two "love stones" positioned around 18m apart which
the lovelorn must walk between with eyes closed to confirm their loved one's
affection. Otowa-no-taki the temple's waterfall gives the
temple its name. Kiyomizu literally means 'pure water'. Visitors stand beneath
the waterfall, and collect water to drink by holding out little tin cups.
Daitokuji Temple
A small and understated temple complex, boasting several
small, secluded sub temples. Daitokuji is the quietest of the temples in
north-western Kyoto. If one visits
it at the start of the day, one could virtually have it to oneself. Eight of
the twenty-four sub temples open to the public, and each charges an admission
fee. The highlight of the sub temples is Daisen-in, located on
the northern side of the temple complex, which has a beautiful Zen garden. Koto-in
is particularly noted for its maple trees, which are particularly beautiful in the
autumn.
Ryōan-ji Temple
The temple is famous for its Zen garden, which is considered
to be one of the most notable examples of the dry-landscape style. Some say it
is the quintessence of Zen art, and perhaps the single greatest masterpiece of
Japanese culture. The garden is surrounded by low walls and an austere
arrangement of fifteen rocks sits on a bed of white gravel. That's it: no
trees, no hills, no ponds, and no running water. Its minimalism is supposed to
inspire contemplation, introspection, and deliberation on the transience of our
own humanity.
Behind the simple temple that overlooks the rock garden is a
stone washbasin called Tsukubai said to have been contributed by Tokugawa
Mitsukuni in the 17th century. It bears a simple four-character inscription
which reads, "I learn only to be contented". The rest of the grounds
are worth a look too, particularly the large pond.