Enjoy Golden Week in Kyoto: The Kiyomizu Stage Surrounded by Lush Greenery

When people think of Kyoto, many may picture cherry blossoms in spring or vibrant autumn foliage. However, Golden Week is also one of the best seasons to enjoy the charm of Kyoto at a relaxed pace. During this time of year, the mountains and temple gardens are covered in soft, fresh greenery, and the entire city feels filled with crisp, refreshing air. One of the best places to experience this early-summer scenery in Kyoto is the city’s iconic landmark, Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

Registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kiyomizu-dera is a must-visit destination when sightseeing in Kyoto. Among its many highlights, the most famous is the “Kiyomizu Stage,” a large wooden terrace that extends out from the temple’s main hall. From this stage, which stands about 13 meters above the ground, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of Kyoto’s cityscape and the surrounding mountains. The scenery changes beautifully with each season, offering a different atmosphere throughout the year.

Although Kiyomizu-dera is often associated with cherry blossoms in spring and colorful leaves in autumn, the temple has its own unique beauty during Golden Week. Around this time, the trees throughout the temple grounds are covered in vivid fresh green leaves, creating a vibrant and refreshing landscape. Under the bright blue sky, the Kiyomizu Stage surrounded by lush greenery offers an open and calming view that gently soothes visitors. Walking through the temple grounds while feeling the breeze passing through the new leaves is a refreshing experience unique to this season.

Exploring the area around Kiyomizu-dera is also one of the pleasures of visiting during Golden Week. The approach to the temple includes charming streets such as Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka, where traditional Kyoto townscapes remain beautifully preserved. Along these streets, you’ll find Japanese confectionery shops, souvenir stores, and cozy cafés. Enjoying Kyoto-style matcha sweets or simply strolling through these historic streets is highly recommended.

Kyoto in fresh greenery offers a calm and elegant atmosphere, different from the vibrant beauty of cherry blossoms or autumn foliage seasons. During Golden Week, why not visit Kiyomizu-dera and enjoy the refreshing scenery of early summer in Kyoto?