3) Kiyomizu Temple

This temple was built in 780 and is one of the most famous temples in Japan. Located in Kyoto it stands on wooded hills and overlooks the city. It is a large wooden structure, beautifully constructed, and in stunning harmony with the the trees that surround it. It has a huge balcony area where you can look out over the hills and Kyoto city. There is also a pagoda shrine in the back which is also nesteled beautifully amoung the surrounding flora. The pathway leading to shrine is in Higashiyama, one of the older areas of Kyoto and is bustling with vendors selling their wares. The walk to the temple is extremely interesting in its own right.