Kyoto's Kiyomizu-dera Temple, one of Japan's most celebrated cultural landmarks, is grappling with increasing tourist numbers as it continues to attract foreign visitors drawn by the yen's depreciation. According to reports, Kiyomizu-dera ranks second among the most recommended attractions by local residents, just behind the Hiroshima Atomic Bomb Dome, highlighting its allure even as overtourism becomes problematic for the region.
While Kiyomizu-dera has long served as the palace of Kannon, representing the ideal world of the deceased, recent developments have stirred public dialogue about the balance between tourism and the site's sacred significance. Oki Sato, the founder of the design studio Nendo, has ignited discussions with his controversial design project—a reflective staircase leading to the temple's Buddha hall. This installation has been met with both praise and criticism, provoking debates over its aesthetic and functional relevance within the historical setting.
Built over 1,200 years ago, Kiyomizu-dera has faced numerous restaurations due to fire, yet it has always remained iconic, showcasing the breathtaking views of the city, particularly during sunset. Mori Kiyoshi, the temple's monk, emphasizes the temple's role as more than just a picturesque spot, remarking, "Kiyomizu-dera is the palace of Kannon, symbolizing the connection between the living and deceased." Therefore, the increasing volume of visitors presents both opportunities and challenges for Kiyomizu-dera.
To alleviate congestion, Kyoto officials introduced two new express bus routes aimed at connecting major tourist sites with JR Kyoto Station. The routes are part of the city’s broad initiative to ease the strain of overtourism—an issue highlighted following the pandemic's fluctuations og tourism trends. Each route, costing 500 yen per trip, is aimed at quickly transporting sightseers without hinderances from frequent stops. Such measures are imperative for maintaining equilibrium between local residents' daily lives and the experience of visitors.
This proactive approach addresses another concern highlighted by Mori: the temple's role as not merely a tourist destination, but as a sacred space intended for prayer and reflection. Funada Yukio, the organizer of the temple's recent "Wish Ceremony" project, states, "We aim to show Kiyomizu-dera not just as tourist spot, but as a place of prayer.” Activities like private after-hours tours, which welcome small groups to engage with the temple’s inherent spirituality, are also gaining popularity, giving visitors the chance to experience Kiyomizu-dera's tranquil essence without the bustle of daytime crowds.
Public sentiment about the reflective staircase is mixed; supporters laude its innovative interaction with nature, stating it fosters thoughtful engagement with cultural heritage, whereas detractors argue it feels jarring against the temple's historic backdrop. This blend of modern design within ancient architecture ignites discussions about what embodies "Japanese style" and how tourism is reshaping perceptions of tradition.
Despite the challenges surrounding the temple, its historical and cultural significance remains unaltered. Visitors from around the world are still inspired by the beauty of Kiyomizu-dera at sunset, as the temple provides breathtaking views of the orange skies disappearing over the horizon. Mori points out how the western entrance has historically been used for meditation, making it sacred not just for its architecture but for the experiences it offers.
Moving forward, locals and authorities are strategizing ways to sustain Kiyomizu-dera’s cultural identity amid rising visitor numbers. The future could see increased investment in infrastructure aimed at preserving the temple’s sacred atmosphere, including futhering the promotion of rare experiences like the "dark temple ceremony," which welcomes individuals to partake intimately within Kiyomizu-dera’s hallowed space after hours.
While the discussions around Kiyomizu-dera Temple’s transformation rattle the communities nearby, the temple remains resilient. It stands as not just a site for photographs but as one of Japan's treasures where spirituality, history, and culture intertwine amid the ebb and flow of contemporary tourism. Recognizing the temple's essence is imperative as Kyoto continues to navigate its future as both host and home for international travelers.