On the night of November 17, 2024, a test illumination was held at Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City, ahead of the start of the autumn nighttime special viewing period. The "Kiyomizu Stage" surrounded by maples was illuminated, creating a solemn scene in the dark night.
Around 6:30 pm, the main hall, Niomon Gate, and three-story pagoda were enveloped in light, and a blue streak of light, said to represent the mercy of Kannon Bodhisattva, stretched into the western sky. On the approach to the temple, foreign tourists were taking videos with their smartphones.
The maples in the temple grounds are noticeably green, and it will be a while before they change color. Kiyomizu-dera Temple believes that the best time to see them will be at the end of November.
The nighttime special viewing period will run from November 18 to 30. The lights will be turned on at 5:30 pm, and admission will close at 9 pm. Admission is 500 yen for adults and 200 yen for elementary and junior high school students.
