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Katsura Imperial VillavsKiyomizu-dera Temple
Both Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Katsura Imperial Villa are endorsed by professional reviewers writing for major publications. Overall, Kiyomizu-dera Temple is preferred by most writers compared to Katsura Imperial Villa. Kiyomizu-dera Temple comes in at 97 with recommendations from 6 sources including Time Out, Michelin Guide and Lonely Planet.
Katsura Imperial Villa
Fodor's
Concierge
Michelin Guide
Katsuramisono, Nishikyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture 615-8014
From $0/night
Fodor's "The setting for this villa is a perfect example of Japanese integration of nature and architecture." Full review
Concierge "Widely thought to be one of the best examples of how Japanese residential design masterfully integrates nature with architecture."
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You must make reservations far in advance through the Imperial Household Agency. Children even teenagers are not allowed
Michelin Guide 3 Stars
"The harmony and beauty of Katsura Imperial Villa arises from its austere layout, which was to inspire Bauhaus architects as well as Le Corbusier." Full review
Kiyomizu-dera Temple Fodor's
Atlas Obscura Michelin Guide
Time Out
U.S. News & World Report
Frommer's
Mt. Otowa, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture
From $0/night
Fodor's "Pilgrims have climbed Higashiyama's cobblestone streets lined with tea shops and craft vendors to this gorgeous mountainside temple for centuries." Full review
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Take off your shoes before descending the stairway for a metaphoric journey into the soul
Atlas Obscura "A shrine contains nearly 200 statues of the Buddhist deity Jizo, dressed in bibs by parents who have lost a child. " Full review
Michelin Guide 3 Stars
"Dedicated to merciful Kannon, Kiyomizu-dera dates back to the 8C, although the current buildings date from the 17C." Full review
Time Out "If you only visit one temple in Kyoto, make it this World Heritage behemoth." Full review
U.S. News & World Report2.0
"Situated on Otowa Mountain in eastern Kyoto, Kiyomizu Temple wows travelers with its stunning natural scenery, which visitors say is best viewed from the verandah off the temple's main building" Full review
Frommer's "This is Higashiyama-ku's most famous temple, known throughout Japan for the grand views afforded from its main hall." Full review
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Ask for the English-language pamphlet and be sure to take the ultimate test: On the shrine's grounds are two "love-fortune telling" stones placed 9m (30 ft.
