Kiyomizu-dera, affectionately known as ``Hoshina Kannon'' or ``Peony Temple, '' belongs to the Chizan school of Shingon Buddhism and was founded in 742. Although it suffered a great fire in 1912, important cultural properties such as the ``Iron Kuwagata'', which is said to be the oldest in Japan, and the Ryokai Mandala and the standing statue of Sho Kannon Bodhisattva, which were kept by Sakanoue Tamuramaro, have been preserved. It is also one of the 33rd temples in Shinano and the 16th temple.
Around November 20th, more than 100 Japanese maples decorate the shrine grounds in bright red.