It may not be as well known as its namesake in Kyoto, but the temple in Shizuoka called Kiyomizu-dera is no less worth a visit. Set in thick forest in Kiyomizuyama Park about twenty minutes' walk from Shizuoka station, it's a peaceful, atmospheric place to escape the bustle of the city. There are scores of ancient, weathered Buddhist statues, and under the eaves of he main hall there's a colourful dragon, waiting to swoop down on you.
Peter Sidell @peter.sidell
I came to Japan from Manchester, England in 2003, and have travelled a lot since then, around Japan and in Asia. When I'm not working, I write satire and perform stand-up comedy in and around Tokyo. Check YouTube for a taste.
