Pop Japan

Kiyomizudera (literally, Pure Water Temple) is a Buddhist Temple in eastern Kyoto. The temple has been included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Site way back in 1994.

Kiyomizudera is most famous for its 13m tall wooden stage which was the inspiration behind the popular expression "to jump off the stage at Kiyomizu" which is similar to the English expression "to take the plunge." During the Edo period, it was believed that if you were to survive the 13m jump from the stage, your wish would be granted. There has been a record of 234 jumps from that stage before it became a prohibited act wherein 200 people out of the 234 survived.

The Ottowa waterfall can be found in the main hall where visitors can catch and drink the water. The water is said to be purely clean and possesses wish-granting powers.

Tags: kiyomizudera, pure water temple, buddhist temple, kyoto, unesco world heritage site, kiyomizu, edo period, ottowa waterfall