Climbing the hill to check out Kiyomizu-dera Temple is enough to make anyone hungry. Here are the best restaurants near Kiyomizu-dera Temple.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple: Richie Chan / Shutterstock.com
There are lots of snack stalls and restaurants on the streets leading up to Kiyomizu-dera. Some are good, some are pretty bad. However, the following places are all good and relatively close to the temple:
- Hisago
About 20 minutes walk northwest (downhill) from Kiyomizu, this folksy noodle and rice specialist is famous for its oyako-donburi (rice topped with chicken and egg). It’s the perfect lunch for sightseeing. Try to go off-peak to avoid the line. - Kasagiya
If you just need a quick little pick-me-up, this classic traditional sweet shop near the top of Ninen-zaka (about 10 minutes’ walk downhill from the temple) serves lovely Japanese sweets and thick matcha. This will definitely power you through to dinner without weighing you down.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple is located in Kyoto’s Southern Higashiyama district. See our complete list of things to do in Southern Higashiyama, including places to eat, nightlife and places to stay.
Kyoto Vacation Checklist
- For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
- Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
- You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Kyoto, Kyoto to Osaka and Kyoto to Tokyo
- Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Kyoto
- See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
- You can buy an eSim to activate in Japan or buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at Tokyo's Narita or Haneda Airports or Kansai International Airport. You can also rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
- Compare Japan flight prices and timings to find the best deals
- If you're making frequent train journeys during your visit, you might save money with Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
- A prepaid Welcome Suica card makes travelling around Kyoto easy – here's how
- World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world
- Do you want help planning your trip? Chris Rowthorn and his team of Japan experts at Japan Travel Consulting can help
