Saga

Sep 15, 2014 - 1 min read

Kiyomizu Waterfall

Time travel in tranquility

By Bradford Pomeroy

Community writer

A few statues stand unwavering in front of the waterfall. The one with the fiery, orange backdrop is called Fudō Myō-ō. His name translates into "Immovable Wisdom King" and the sword he holds is the slayer of ignorance. There are several statues of this deity at this particular site. Can you find them?

This is a statue of Dainichi Nyorai, a central deity within Mikkyo, or esoteric Buddhism. He is found here seated on lotus petals with his hands forming a mudrā, or ritual hand gesture.

You can enter here and make your way past Kenryu-ji, a temple built in 1627, and take the path to the waterfall.

Beautiful views of the mountainous backdrop.

A large-sized statue of Fudō Myō-ō, who seems to have lost his sword.

You'll find various shrines as you explore the area.

The steps to your left will take you to that small shrine. The steps to your right will take you to the base of the waterfall.

Before you reach the waterfall, you will pass through Kenryu-ji.

Bring your bento and have a picnic in this gazebo amidst the beautiful and tranquil environment.

The water flows from the base of the waterfall into the Gion River.

A row of Buddhist statues, centuries old, and weathered over time.

Kiyomizu-no-taki is a waterfall in Ogi City of Saga Prefecture. Next to the waterfall is Kenryu-ji, a Buddhist temple built in 1627. The whole area is infused with incredible statues of Buddhist deities, shrines, and an immensely beautiful backdrop of lush vegetation. Once you reach the base of the waterfall, you’ll find a gazebo where you can relax or have a picnic. This is an idyllic setting to take time away from your busy schedule and unwind for a few hours.

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By Bradford Pomeroy

Community writer

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Preethu 8 years ago

Beautiful Photos!

Elena Lisina 9 years ago

Thank you for the information, Bradford! I couldn't understand how to get to that place. Can you, please, explain? I don't see any public transport on the map.

Bradford Pomeroy Photographer 10 years ago

Thank you Mandy. It's truly a special place. I was fortunate to visit the light festival and am currently working on a photo essay about it. Unfortunately, it was only from November 15-23. Hopefully you can make it next time as it's quite an ethereal experience.

Mandy Bartok 10 years ago

What a beautiful destination! Do you know what month they hold the light festival?

Tristan Scholze 11 years ago

Beautiful place to take a walk. I love the weathered look of all the shrines with the natural backdrop. Looks really peaceful.

9 comments in total

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Information

2209-1 Matsuo, Ogi-machi, Ogi-shi, Saga-ken 845-0004 (Directions)

Preethu 8 years ago

Beautiful Photos!

Elena Lisina 9 years ago

Thank you for the information, Bradford! I couldn't understand how to get to that place. Can you, please, explain? I don't see any public transport on the map.