Mary and I did not go to the top to visit the Kiyomizu Temple. Instead, we stayed down and shopped. Marlon took the walk to the top.
Have you ever heard of a popular Japanese saying: "to take the plunge from the stage of Kiyomizu [to make a leap into the dark]?
Until Kyoto Prefecture Government's ban in 1872, jumping from the stage of Kiyomizu Temple was actually a rather common practice of wish-making, based on the popular belief that if one entrusted own's life to the Kannon (the god/dess] of mercy) enshrined in the temple, wishes will come true.
148 years of Kiyomizu's business diary records between 1694 to 1864 were discovered at its storehouse in 1990. According to the manuscript, 234 people jumped from the stage of Kiyomizu. A woman jumped even twice. The survival rate was about 85% (34 people died). 170 people had their age recorded; over 70% were of age 10-20 (as expected). The reasons why they jumped were varied; people wished for the cure of one's own (or mother's) illness. A person apparently earnestly desired for spare time off work! Marlon got some amazing photos while visiting the Kiyomizu Temple.
It was very. Crowded at the top.
A pagoda was visible across the valley.
The stage was being remodeled.
Would you jump?
You sure get your steps in here. This is going down to the top of the hill. I still have to walk down the hill to the bus!
I don't think they want you to sit on this fence.
Back on the bus and headed to next destination.
