Ahead of the special autumn night viewing of Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City, which begins on November 18, 2023, a trial illumination of the temple grounds was held on the night of November 16. From the Okunoin temple, the maples around the main hall, a national treasure known for its ''Kiyomizu Stage,'' could be seen surrounded by soft light as they began to change color.
Special autumn viewings have been held since 1993. As in previous years, about 500 lights will be installed within the precincts, illuminating the area around the main hall, Niomon Gate, and the three-storied pagoda. The blue light that illuminates the Western Pure Land with the mercy of Kannon Bodhisattva also extends toward the west.
According to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, due to the unseasonably warm weather this year, the approximately 1,000 maple trees within the temple grounds are changing color a little later. The season is expected to accelerate as minimum temperatures drop, and the best time to see them is expected to be late November.
The special viewing is available until November 30th. The lights will be turned on at 5:30 p.m. Reception is open until 9am. Admission fee is 400 yen for adults and 200 yen for elementary and junior high school students. During the period, special viewings will be held at the sub-temple, Joju-in, during the day and at night.
