Kiyomizu-dera Temple, located in Miyama City, Fukuoka Prefecture, is a historic temple opened by Saicho, the founder of the Tendai sect of Buddhism. It is widely known as a Kannon (Bodhisattva of Compassion) for safe childbirth, matchmaking, and conception, and many women visit to worship.
Highlights of Kiyomizu-dera Temple
- Kannon Associated with Saicho: It is said that it began when Saicho, who returned from China in 806, carved a Senju Kannon statue (Thousand-Armed Kannon) from a silk tree himself. The merciful Kannon gently embraces the wishes of the people.
- Mountain Gate Designated as a Prefectural Cultural Property: The mountain gate, built in 1745 by Tadanori Tachibana, the lord of the Yanagawa Domain, is a designated cultural property of Fukuoka Prefecture. It is a magnificent structure that brings together the essence of the architectural technology of that time, and inside the second floor, Monju Bosatsu (Manjusri), Shakanyorai (Buddha Shakyamuni), and the Four Heavenly Kings are enshrined.
- Symbol, Three-Storied Pagoda: The vividly vermilion three-storied pagoda is a symbol of Kiyomizu-dera Temple. It was built in 1836, modeled after the five-storied pagoda of Shitennoji Temple in Osaka. It is also designated as a prefectural cultural property.
- Chichigami Kannon (Breastfeeding Kannon): The Chichigami Kannon, said to have originated when Jikaku Daishi, a disciple of Saicho, enshrined a Kannon statue in 848. It is known as a place to pray for a good milk supply, and there is a custom of dedicating objects shaped like breasts.
Basic Information
| Item | Content |
| Name | Kiyomizu-dera Temple |
| Address | 1119-1 Hon-yoshi, Setaka Town, Miyama City, Fukuoka Prefecture 835-0003 |
| Phone Number | 0944-63-7625 |
| Parking | Available |
| Access | About 5 minutes from the Kyushu Expressway “Miyama Yanagawa IC” About 10 minutes by taxi from JR Kagoshima Main Line “Setaka Station” |
Conclusion
Kiyomizu-dera Temple is a historic and traditional temple that enshrines a Kannon associated with Saicho. It is also known as a power spot that fulfills the wishes of women, such as safe childbirth, matchmaking, and conception. When you visit Miyama City, why not stop by Kiyomizu-dera Temple and pray for the fulfillment of your heart’s desires?