Kiyomizu Temple New Year Event

About

Experience one of Japan's most iconic New Year traditions at the magnificent Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site perched on a hillside with breathtaking views of Kyoto. Hatsumode (first shrine visit of the year) at Kiyomizu Temple offers families a magical introduction to Japanese culture, complete with traditional ceremonies, festive decorations, and the chance to make wishes for the coming year. The temple's famous wooden stage and vibrant atmosphere during this special time create unforgettable memories for children experiencing authentic Japanese customs.

What to Expect

Families will encounter massive crowds of worshippers dressed in colorful kimonos and traditional attire, creating a festive carnival-like atmosphere. Children can participate in traditional rituals like tossing coins into offering boxes, drawing omikuji (fortune papers), and ringing the temple bells. The temple grounds are beautifully decorated with seasonal ornaments, and numerous food stalls line the approach selling traditional New Year treats. Expect a sensory-rich experience with incense smoke, temple bells chiming, and the energy of thousands celebrating together. The iconic wooden stage offers spectacular photo opportunities overlooking Kyoto, though it will be very crowded during peak hours.

Highlights for Kids

• Drawing colorful omikuji fortune papers and tying bad fortunes to the racks—kids love this interactive tradition
• Drinking from the three streams at Otowa Waterfall using long-handled ladles, where each stream grants a different wish (longevity, success, love)
• Exploring the festive food stalls along Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka slopes selling taiyaki (fish-shaped cakes), dango (sweet dumplings), and amazake (sweet rice drink)
• Standing on the famous wooden stage for panoramic views and feeling like they're floating above the treetops
• Watching worshippers in beautiful kimonos and perhaps spotting families in matching traditional New Year outfits

Pro Tips for Families

1. Visit on January 3-4 instead of January 1-2 for significantly smaller crowds while still experiencing the New Year atmosphere—January 1st can draw over 300,000 visitors
2. Dress children in warm layers as Kyoto winters are cold (5-10°C/41-50°F) and you'll be outdoors for extended periods; hand warmers are sold everywhere and make great pocket warmers for kids
3. Purchase omikuji fortune papers (100-200 yen) for older kids—they come in English at some spots and if the fortune is bad, kids can tie it to the designated racks to leave the bad luck behind, which they find fascinating
4. Download Google Translate's offline Japanese pack before visiting as English signage is limited; the app's camera translation feature helps kids understand what different amulets and charms are for

Best Time to Visit

Early morning visits (6-8 AM) on January 3rd or 4th offer the best family experience with manageable crowds and mystical sunrise views. Avoid January 1st entirely and skip New Year's Eve countdown unless your family thrives in massive crowds. If visiting January 1-2, arrive before 7 AM or after 4 PM when crowds thin slightly. Weekday visits (if January 2-3 fall on weekdays) are moderately less busy than weekends.

Food & Drinks

Numerous street food vendors line the approach to the temple selling kid-friendly treats like taiyaki (fish-shaped cakes filled with sweet red bean or custard), yakisoba (stir-fried noodles), takoyaki (octopus balls), and sweet amazake (warm sweet rice drink perfect for cold mornings). Traditional New Year foods like mochi (rice cakes) are abundant but can be a choking hazard for young children—supervise carefully. Budget-friendly snacks cost 300-600 yen each. Vending machines throughout offer familiar drinks. Note that eating while walking is generally frowned upon in Japan, so use designated eating areas near stalls or step aside from the main path.

Parking & Access

Kiyomizu Temple is NOT easily accessible by car—parking is extremely limited and roads are closed to traffic during New Year period. Take public transportation: from Kyoto Station, bus #100 or #206 to Gojozaka or Kiyomizumichi stops (15-20 minutes), then a 10-minute uphill walk. Taxis can drop off at the base but cannot reach the temple. The approach involves steep slopes and many steps—strollers are not practical and must be carried much of the way. Baby carriers are essential for non-walkers. The temple itself has some step-free paths but overall accessibility is limited. Arrive early to avoid walking uphill in dense crowds with children.