When visiting the Kiyomizu-dera area, you definitely shouldn’t miss Yasaka Koshindo, a temple filled with Kyoto charm! I first learned about it from a TV program and specifically added it to my itinerary. It certainly didn’t disappoint.
As I entered the temple grounds, the first thing I saw was row after row of colorful “kukurizaru” monkeys hanging in a mix of red, yellow, blue, and pink, like vibrant waterfalls of wishes. They look beautiful from every angle! Many Japanese women come to pray dressed in elegant kimono, which complement the adorable monkeys. Every casual snapshot captures the atmosphere of the ancient capital.
The way you make a wish here is also interesting. You can choose a cloth ball you like, write your wish on it, and hang it at the temple. The kukurizaru represents a monkey with its hands and feet bound, reminding people that to make a wish come true, they must not only pray for divine blessings but also learn to control their desires, try to let go of one obsession, and take action toward fulfilling their wish.
I visited in early spring, just as the plum blossoms on the branches were about to bloom. The delicate pink flowers created a charming contrast with the rustic temple and colorful kukurizaru, adding a gentle, poetic touch to the whole scene.
