Private Tour with Monk at Kiyomizu-dera Temple

An intimate journey through sacred Kyoto, guided by wisdom

Begin your day with a rare, soul-stirring experience. This private tour offers guests a serene and enlightening encounter with Kiyomizu-dera Temple, one of Kyoto’s most treasured World Heritage Sites. Led by esteemed monk Shoin Onishi, the morning unfolds as a quiet passage through temple grounds rarely seen by the public. Each step invites reflection. Each moment, a deeper connection to Kyoto’s spiritual heart.

Tour Details

Price: ¥330,000 per group
Participants: 1 to 4 guests
Time: 6:00 A.M. to 9:00 A.M. (8-minute walk from the hotel to Kiyomizu-dera Temple)
Reservation Deadline: 3 days prior to your selected date
Eligibility: Ages 18 and above (Ages 12–17 may participate when accompanied by a parent or guardian)
Cancellation Policy: 100% fee applies from 7 days before scheduled date

What’s included

Guided visit of Kiyomizu-dera Temple by Shoin Onishi

Interpretation provided in English

Access to normally restricted areas

Intimate conversation and cultural insight with the monk

【Sample Schedule】

6:20 Hotel departure
6:30 Arrival at Kiyomizu-dera Temple
West Gate (not open to the public)
Main Hall (National Treasure)
Inner Sanctuary of the Main Hall (not open to the public)
Okuno-in Temple
Personal discussion at Seijo-in Temple (not open to the public)
8:30 Temple departure
8:40 Return to the hotel

The tour begins early in the morning, before the temple is crowded with tourists.

As guests explore the temple grounds, including areas not open to the public, they will have the chance to witness traditional pray or the principal image of the temple, gaining a deeper understanding of the Buddhist spirits, enjoy to your heart’s content the solemn and clean atmosphere of Kiyomizu-Dera Temple in the midst of silence.

This exclusive experience allows visitors to gain insights and understanding that will resonate long after their departure.

Monk Shoin Onishi, one of Kyoto’s most captivating personalities.

Born and raised within the temple grounds, Monk Shoin Onishi possesses an intimate knowledge of Kiyomizu-dera and will share his insights with guests in his own words. As a guide, he will offer a captivating narrative about the temple’s history and the world of Buddhism.

By joining the private tour, the world heritage site Kiyomizu-dera will become more than just a tourist destination, it will become a special place for guests.

Discover Kyoto Beyond Sightseeing

Kyoto is more than a city of picturesque temples and gardens. It is a place where tradition, craftsmanship, and quiet elegance come together in everyday moments.

At The Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu, we invite guests to go beyond simply observing. Our curated experiences are designed to help you connect with the remarkable individuals who shape Kyoto’s cultural legacy. These encounters are not just memorable—they become part of your story.

We are committed to offering meaningful hospitality and creating moments that leave a lasting impression.