清水寺を英語で説明・紹介するための基本情報と、英会話に役立つ表現をシンプルでわかりやすい英語で紹介します。
英会話ダイアローグ・関連情報・10の質問を通して、清水寺に関する英語表現を学びます。
英語
英会話ダイアローグを読む前に知っておくと良い前提知識と情報です。
- 清水寺の概要:
- 京都にある778年創建の歴史ある寺院
- 1994年にユネスコ世界文化遺産に登録
- 建築的特徴：
- 「清水の舞台」と呼ばれる本堂が有名
- 高さ約13メートルの崖の上に建てられている
- 音羽の滝:
- 清水寺内にある滝で、3つの流れから水を飲むと長寿、学業成就、恋愛成就のご利益があるとされている
- ベストシーズン:
- 春の桜や秋の紅葉の時期が特に美しく、夜間ライトアップも行われる
- 周辺の観光スポット:
- 二年坂、三年坂などの伝統的な街並み
- 高台寺や八坂神社など
2人が清水寺について話しています。
清水寺の歴史や特徴、有名な木造の舞台や観音菩薩、音羽の滝、最適な訪問時期、さらに近隣の観光スポットなどを話題にしています。
会話 / dialogue
Hey Key, have you ever been to Kiyomizu-dera in Kyoto? I’m really interested in visiting, but I want to know more about it first.
Oh, Kiyomizu-dera is amazing! It’s one of the most famous temples in Japan, and it’s known for its large wooden stage that juts out from the Main Hall. Have you heard about that?
Yeah, I’ve read about the stage. It’s built using a technique called “kake-zukuri,” right? No nails were used at all. That sounds impressive. But why is the stage so famous?
Exactly! The stage is about 13 meters high, and from there, you can get a fantastic view of Kyoto, especially during the cherry blossom season in spring or when the leaves change color in autumn. People love the view from up there. The whole structure is supported by wooden pillars that are over 400 years old!
Wow, that sounds incredible. I’d love to see that. I also heard Kiyomizu-dera is dedicated to Kannon, the goddess of mercy?
Yes, that’s right. The Main Hall, which is a National Treasure, is dedicated to Kannon. People come to pray for health, success, and love. And there’s Otowa Waterfall, where you can drink from three different streams for blessings—long life, success in studies, or finding love.
I didn’t know that. Drinking from the waterfall sounds like a special experience. Do you know how old the temple is?
It was founded in 778 during the Nara period, so it’s over 1,200 years old! And at one point, it was rebuilt with the help of a general named Sakanoue no Tamuramaro. He played an important role in supporting the temple.
I see. So he helped make it what it is today. That’s really interesting. No wonder the temple has such a long history and deep connections.
Exactly. And that’s one of the reasons why Kiyomizu-dera is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s not just a temple—it’s a cultural and historical landmark.
No wonder so many people visit. Speaking of which, when’s the best time to go? I don’t want to miss the best views.
Definitely spring or autumn. The cherry blossoms in spring and the autumn leaves in November are both stunning. Plus, Kiyomizu-dera does special night illuminations during those times. The temple and trees are lit up, and it looks magical.
That sounds perfect. I love autumn, so maybe I’ll plan for November. Do you think I could spend a whole day there?
For sure! You could start by walking through Ninen-zaka and Sannen-zaka. These are traditional streets with lots of shops and cafés. Then, head to Kiyomizu-dera and explore the temple. Don’t forget to drink from Otowa Waterfall! After that, you could have lunch nearby, maybe some Kyoto-style cuisine.
That sounds great. I’d love to experience the old streets before visiting the temple. And what should I do after lunch?
You could visit Kodaiji Temple or Yasaka Shrine, both are close by. Kodaiji has beautiful gardens, and Yasaka Shrine is one of Kyoto’s most important shrines.
This is shaping up to be an amazing day. And if I’m there in autumn, I’ll stay for the night illumination at Kiyomizu-dera.
That’s a great idea. The night view from the stage is breathtaking. It’ll be a memorable experience, for sure.
Thanks for all the info, Key. I feel like I have a much better understanding of Kiyomizu-dera now. I can’t wait to visit.
You’re welcome! I’m sure you’ll love it. Kiyomizu-dera is one of those places that leaves a lasting impression. Enjoy your trip!
関連情報 / related information
「清水寺」について、理解を深めるための「英語での関連情報」です。
清水寺
Overview
Kiyomizu-dera is a famous Buddhist temple located in Kyoto, Japan. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is one of the most visited temples in the country. The temple is dedicated to Kannon, the goddess of mercy, offering visitors a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere.
History
Kiyomizu-dera was founded in 778 during the Nara period. The temple’s early development was supported by a famous general, Sakanoue no Tamuramaro, during the Heian period. He played an important role in rebuilding and expanding the temple. Over its long history of more than 1,200 years, the temple has been rebuilt multiple times due to fires. The current structure dates back to the early Edo period, when it was reconstructed with the support of Tokugawa Iemitsu, the third shogun of the Tokugawa shogunate.
Main Attractions
The highlight of Kiyomizu-dera is the large wooden stage that extends from the Main Hall, offering breathtaking views of Kyoto. This stage was built using a traditional Japanese technique without the use of nails. Another popular feature is the Otowa Waterfall, where visitors drink from three streams, each believed to grant blessings—long life, academic success, or love.
Best Season to Visit
Spring and autumn are the best times to visit Kiyomizu-dera. In spring, the cherry blossoms around the temple create a stunning scene, while in autumn, the red and golden leaves make the temple surroundings even more beautiful. During these seasons, the temple holds special night illuminations, where the temple and trees are beautifully lit, creating a magical atmosphere.
Nearby Attractions
After visiting Kiyomizu-dera, you can explore the nearby Ninen-zaka and Sannen-zaka streets, which are lined with traditional shops and cafés. You can also visit nearby temples like Kodaiji, known for its beautiful Zen gardens, or Yasaka Shrine, one of Kyoto’s most important Shinto shrines. These nearby sites add to the overall experience and make for a full day of exploring Kyoto’s rich history and culture.
10の質問 / 10 questions
「清水寺」について、理解を深めるための「英語での10の質問」です。
1: What is Kiyomizu-dera?
Kiyomizu-dera is a famous Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Japan. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is dedicated to Kannon, the goddess of mercy.
2: When was Kiyomizu-dera founded?
Kiyomizu-dera was founded in 778 during the Nara period, making it over 1,200 years old.
3: What is the main attraction of Kiyomizu-dera?
The main attraction is the large wooden stage that extends from the Main Hall, offering breathtaking views of Kyoto. The stage was built without using nails.
4: Who supported the early development of Kiyomizu-dera?
A famous general named Sakanoue no Tamuramaro supported the early development of Kiyomizu-dera during the Heian period, playing a key role in its expansion.
5: What is the significance of Otowa Waterfall at Kiyomizu-dera?
Otowa Waterfall has three streams, and visitors can drink from them for blessings such as long life, academic success, or love.
6: When is the best time to visit Kiyomizu-dera?
The best times to visit are in spring, when the cherry blossoms bloom, and in autumn, when the leaves turn red and gold. The temple also holds special night illuminations during these seasons.
7: How was Kiyomizu-dera rebuilt in the Edo period?
Kiyomizu-dera was rebuilt during the early Edo period with the support of Tokugawa Iemitsu, the third shogun of the Tokugawa shogunate.
8: What is unique about the construction of the Kiyomizu-dera stage?
The stage is built using a traditional Japanese technique called “kake-zukuri,” which does not use nails. The structure is supported by large wooden pillars over 400 years old.
9: What other nearby attractions can you visit after Kiyomizu-dera?
After visiting Kiyomizu-dera, you can explore Ninen-zaka and Sannen-zaka streets or visit nearby temples like Kodaiji and Yasaka Shrine.
10: Why is Kiyomizu-dera considered a cultural landmark?
Kiyomizu-dera is not just a temple but a symbol of Japan’s cultural and historical heritage. Its long history, architecture, and spiritual importance make it a significant cultural landmark.
和訳付
会話 / dialogue
Hey Key, have you ever been to Kiyomizu-dera in Kyoto? I’m really interested in visiting, but I want to know more about it first.
ねえキー、京都の清水寺に行ったことある？ すごく行きたいんだけど、まずもっと知りたいんだ。
Oh, Kiyomizu-dera is amazing! It’s one of the most famous temples in Japan, and it’s known for its large wooden stage that juts out from the Main Hall. Have you heard about that?
清水寺は本当にすごいよ！日本で最も有名な寺院の一つで、本堂から突き出した大きな木の舞台で有名なんだ。聞いたことある？
Yeah, I’ve read about the stage. It’s built using a technique called “kake-zukuri,” right? No nails were used at all. That sounds impressive. But why is the stage so famous?
うん、その舞台について読んだことあるよ。「懸造」という技術で作られていて、釘を全然使っていないんだよね。すごいな。でも、どうしてそんなに有名なんだろう？
Exactly! The stage is about 13 meters high, and from there, you can get a fantastic view of Kyoto, especially during the cherry blossom season in spring or when the leaves change color in autumn. People love the view from up there. The whole structure is supported by wooden pillars that are over 400 years old!
その通り！舞台は高さが13メートルほどあって、そこから京都の素晴らしい景色が楽しめるんだ。特に春の桜や秋の紅葉の季節が最高だよ。みんなその景色を楽しみにしてるんだ。全体が400年以上前の木製の柱で支えられているんだよ。
Wow, that sounds incredible. I’d love to see that. I also heard Kiyomizu-dera is dedicated to Kannon, the goddess of mercy?
うわ、それはすごいね。ぜひ見てみたいよ。清水寺は慈悲の女神、観音様を祀っているって聞いたことがあるんだけど？
Yes, that’s right. The Main Hall, which is a National Treasure, is dedicated to Kannon. People come to pray for health, success, and love. And there’s Otowa Waterfall, where you can drink from three different streams for blessings—long life, success in studies, or finding love.
そうだよ。本堂は国宝にも指定されていて、観音様が祀られているんだ。みんな健康や成功、恋愛を祈りに来るんだよ。それに、音羽の滝もあって、そこでは長寿、学業成就、恋愛成就のご利益がある3つの流れから水を飲めるんだ。
I didn’t know that. Drinking from the waterfall sounds like a special experience. Do you know how old the temple is?
そんなこと知らなかったよ。滝の水を飲むなんて特別な体験だね。お寺ってどのくらい古いの？
It was founded in 778 during the Nara period, so it’s over 1,200 years old! And at one point, it was rebuilt with the help of a general named Sakanoue no Tamuramaro. He played an important role in supporting the temple.
清水寺は778年、奈良時代に創建されたから、もう1200年以上も経っているんだ。それに、一度は坂上田村麻呂という将軍の助けを借りて再建されたんだ。彼が寺を支えるのに重要な役割を果たしたんだよ。
I see. So he helped make it what it is today. That’s really interesting. No wonder the temple has such a long history and deep connections.
なるほど。それで彼が今日の清水寺の姿に貢献したんだね。すごく興味深いな。だからこんなに長い歴史と深い結びつきがあるんだ。
Exactly. And that’s one of the reasons why Kiyomizu-dera is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s not just a temple—it’s a cultural and historical landmark.
その通り。それも清水寺がユネスコの世界遺産に登録されている理由の一つなんだ。単なるお寺じゃなくて、文化的、歴史的なランドマークなんだよ。
No wonder so many people visit. Speaking of which, when’s the best time to go? I don’t want to miss the best views.
だからたくさんの人が訪れるんだね。ところで、いつ行くのがベストなの？最高の景色を見逃したくないんだけど。
Definitely spring or autumn. The cherry blossoms in spring and the autumn leaves in November are both stunning. Plus, Kiyomizu-dera does special night illuminations during those times. The temple and trees are lit up, and it looks magical.
春か秋が絶対いいよ。春の桜も、11月の紅葉も本当に素晴らしいんだ。それに、その時期には特別な夜間ライトアップがあるんだ。お寺や木々がライトアップされて、まるで魔法のような光景になるよ。
That sounds perfect. I love autumn, so maybe I’ll plan for November. Do you think I could spend a whole day there?
それは完璧だね。秋が大好きだから、11月に計画しようかな。一日中そこにいられると思う？
For sure! You could start by walking through Ninen-zaka and Sannen-zaka. These are traditional streets with lots of shops and cafés. Then, head to Kiyomizu-dera and explore the temple. Don’t forget to drink from Otowa Waterfall! After that, you could have lunch nearby, maybe some Kyoto-style cuisine.
もちろん！まず二年坂と三年坂を歩くといいよ。伝統的な街並みで、たくさんのショップやカフェがあるんだ。それから清水寺に向かってお寺を見て回るんだ。音羽の滝の水を飲むのを忘れずにね。その後は近くでランチを楽しめるよ、たとえば京都の料理とか。
That sounds great. I’d love to experience the old streets before visiting the temple. And what should I do after lunch?
それはいいね。お寺に行く前に、古い街並みを楽しんでみたいよ。ランチの後はどうすればいいかな？
You could visit Kodaiji Temple or Yasaka Shrine, both are close by. Kodaiji has beautiful gardens, and Yasaka Shrine is one of Kyoto’s most important shrines.
高台寺や八坂神社を訪れるのもいいよ。どちらもすぐ近くにあるんだ。高台寺は美しい庭園があるし、八坂神社は京都で最も重要な神社の一つだよ。
This is shaping up to be an amazing day. And if I’m there in autumn, I’ll stay for the night illumination at Kiyomizu-dera.
すごい一日になりそうだな。それに秋に行くなら、清水寺の夜間ライトアップも楽しむことにするよ。
That’s a great idea. The night view from the stage is breathtaking. It’ll be a memorable experience, for sure.
それはいい考えだね。舞台から見る夜景は息をのむほど美しいよ。本当に思い出に残る体験になるはずさ。
Thanks for all the info, Key. I feel like I have a much better understanding of Kiyomizu-dera now. I can’t wait to visit.
いろいろ教えてくれてありがとう、キー。今は清水寺についてずっとよく理解できた気がするよ。訪れるのが待ちきれないよ。
You’re welcome! I’m sure you’ll love it. Kiyomizu-dera is one of those places that leaves a lasting impression. Enjoy your trip!
どういたしまして！きっと気に入るよ。清水寺は一度行ったら忘れられない場所だからね。良い旅を楽しんで！
関連情報 / related information
清水寺
Overview
Kiyomizu-dera is a famous Buddhist temple located in Kyoto, Japan. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is one of the most visited temples in the country. The temple is dedicated to Kannon, the goddess of mercy, offering visitors a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere.
清水寺は日本の京都に位置する有名な仏教寺院です。ユネスコの世界遺産に登録されており、日本で最も訪問者が多い寺院の一つです。この寺は慈悲の女神である観音菩薩に捧げられており、訪問者に平和で霊的な雰囲気を提供しています。
History
Kiyomizu-dera was founded in 778 during the Nara period. The temple’s early development was supported by a famous general, Sakanoue no Tamuramaro, during the Heian period. He played an important role in rebuilding and expanding the temple. Over its long history of more than 1,200 years, the temple has been rebuilt multiple times due to fires. The current structure dates back to the early Edo period, when it was reconstructed with the support of Tokugawa Iemitsu, the third shogun of the Tokugawa shogunate.
清水寺は奈良時代の778年に創建されました。平安時代には、有名な将軍坂上田村麻呂が寺の再建と拡張に重要な役割を果たし、寺の発展に貢献しました。1200年以上の長い歴史の中で、火災により何度も再建されてきました。現在の建物は江戸時代初期に再建されたもので、その再建には徳川幕府の第三代将軍、徳川家光の支援がありました。
Main Attractions
The highlight of Kiyomizu-dera is the large wooden stage that extends from the Main Hall, offering breathtaking views of Kyoto. This stage was built using a traditional Japanese technique without the use of nails. Another popular feature is the Otowa Waterfall, where visitors drink from three streams, each believed to grant blessings—long life, academic success, or love.
清水寺の目玉は、本堂から突き出した大きな木造の舞台で、京都の素晴らしい景色を一望できます。この舞台は、釘を使わずに伝統的な日本の技法で建設されました。また、人気のスポットには音羽の滝もあり、3つの流れの水を飲むと長寿、学業成就、恋愛成就のご利益があるとされています。
Best Season to Visit
Spring and autumn are the best times to visit Kiyomizu-dera. In spring, the cherry blossoms around the temple create a stunning scene, while in autumn, the red and golden leaves make the temple surroundings even more beautiful. During these seasons, the temple holds special night illuminations, where the temple and trees are beautifully lit, creating a magical atmosphere.
清水寺を訪れるのに最適な時期は春と秋です。春には寺の周囲が桜で美しく彩られ、秋には赤や金色の紅葉が寺をさらに美しくします。この季節には、寺や木々がライトアップされる特別な夜間照明が行われ、幻想的な雰囲気が楽しめます。
Nearby Attractions
After visiting Kiyomizu-dera, you can explore the nearby Ninen-zaka and Sannen-zaka streets, which are lined with traditional shops and cafés. You can also visit nearby temples like Kodaiji, known for its beautiful Zen gardens, or Yasaka Shrine, one of Kyoto’s most important Shinto shrines. These nearby sites add to the overall experience and make for a full day of exploring Kyoto’s rich history and culture.
清水寺を訪れた後は、近くの二年坂や三年坂の通りを散策できます。これらの通りには、伝統的なショップやカフェが並んでいます。また、美しい禅庭で有名な高台寺や、京都で最も重要な神社の一つである八坂神社も訪れることができます。これらの周辺スポットを巡ることで、京都の豊かな歴史と文化を一日中堪能できます。
10の質問 / 10 questions
1: What is Kiyomizu-dera?
清水寺とは何ですか？
Kiyomizu-dera is a famous Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Japan. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is dedicated to Kannon, the goddess of mercy.
清水寺は日本の京都にある有名な仏教寺院です。ユネスコの世界遺産に登録されており、慈悲の女神である観音菩薩に捧げられています。
2: When was Kiyomizu-dera founded?
清水寺はいつ創建されましたか？
Kiyomizu-dera was founded in 778 during the Nara period, making it over 1,200 years old.
清水寺は奈良時代の778年に創建され、1200年以上の歴史があります。
3: What is the main attraction of Kiyomizu-dera?
清水寺の主な見どころは何ですか？
The main attraction is the large wooden stage that extends from the Main Hall, offering breathtaking views of Kyoto. The stage was built without using nails.
主な見どころは本堂から突き出た大きな木造の舞台で、京都の素晴らしい景色を一望できます。この舞台は釘を使わずに建てられています。
4: Who supported the early development of Kiyomizu-dera?
清水寺の初期の発展を支援したのは誰ですか？
A famous general named Sakanoue no Tamuramaro supported the early development of Kiyomizu-dera during the Heian period, playing a key role in its expansion.
平安時代に有名な将軍、坂上田村麻呂が清水寺の初期の発展を支援し、拡張に重要な役割を果たしました。
5: What is the significance of Otowa Waterfall at Kiyomizu-dera?
清水寺の音羽の滝の意味は何ですか？
Otowa Waterfall has three streams, and visitors can drink from them for blessings such as long life, academic success, or love.
音羽の滝には3つの流れがあり、訪れる人は長寿、学業成就、恋愛成就などのご利益を求めて水を飲むことができます。
6: When is the best time to visit Kiyomizu-dera?
清水寺を訪れるのに最適な時期はいつですか？
The best times to visit are in spring, when the cherry blossoms bloom, and in autumn, when the leaves turn red and gold. The temple also holds special night illuminations during these seasons.
最適な時期は春の桜が咲く頃や秋の紅葉の季節です。この季節には特別な夜間ライトアップも行われます。
7: How was Kiyomizu-dera rebuilt in the Edo period?
清水寺は江戸時代にどのように再建されましたか？
Kiyomizu-dera was rebuilt during the early Edo period with the support of Tokugawa Iemitsu, the third shogun of the Tokugawa shogunate.
清水寺は江戸時代初期に、徳川幕府の第三代将軍、徳川家光の支援によって再建されました。
8: What is unique about the construction of the Kiyomizu-dera stage?
清水寺の舞台の建設における特徴は何ですか？
The stage is built using a traditional Japanese technique called “kake-zukuri,” which does not use nails. The structure is supported by large wooden pillars over 400 years old.
この舞台は「懸造」という伝統的な日本の技法で建てられており、釘を使用していません。構造は400年以上の歴史を持つ大きな木製の柱で支えられています。
9: What other nearby attractions can you visit after Kiyomizu-dera?
清水寺の後に訪れることができる近隣の観光地は何ですか？
After visiting Kiyomizu-dera, you can explore Ninen-zaka and Sannen-zaka streets or visit nearby temples like Kodaiji and Yasaka Shrine.
清水寺を訪れた後は、二年坂や三年坂の通りを散策したり、近くの高台寺や八坂神社などの寺院を訪れることができます。
10: Why is Kiyomizu-dera considered a cultural landmark?
なぜ清水寺は文化的なランドマークとされているのですか？
Kiyomizu-dera is not just a temple but a symbol of Japan’s cultural and historical heritage. Its long history, architecture, and spiritual importance make it a significant cultural landmark.
清水寺は単なる寺院ではなく、日本の文化的および歴史的遺産の象徴です。その長い歴史、建築、そして霊的な重要性が、清水寺を文化的なランドマークにしています。
words & phrases
英会話ダイアローグと関連情報に出てきた単語・フレーズです（例文は各３つ）。
jut out : 動詞
意味: 突き出る、突出する。To extend outward beyond the main body or line.
（清水寺の舞台が本堂から突き出ている様子を表す）
例文：
- The rocks jut out from the side of the mountain.
「岩が山の側面から突き出ている。」 - The balcony juts out over the garden.
「バルコニーが庭の上に突き出ている。」 - Her chin jutted out defiantly.
「彼女の顎が反抗的に突き出されていた。」
dedicated : 形容詞
意味: 献身的な、捧げられた。Devoted to a task, purpose, or person, or designed for a specific purpose.
（清水寺が観音菩薩に捧げられていることを指す）
例文：
- She is dedicated to her work as a doctor.
「彼女は医師としての仕事に献身的です。」 - This room is dedicated to meditation.
「この部屋は瞑想専用です。」 - The temple is dedicated to the goddess of mercy.
「この寺は慈悲の女神に捧げられています。」
mercy : 名詞
意味: 慈悲、寛大さ。Compassion or forgiveness shown towards someone whom it is within one’s power to punish or harm.
（観音菩薩が慈悲の女神であることを指す）
例文：
- The judge showed mercy and reduced the sentence.
「裁判官は慈悲を示し、判決を軽減しました。」 - She begged for mercy from the king.
「彼女は王に慈悲を請いました。」 - Kannon is the goddess of mercy in Japanese Buddhism.
「観音は日本の仏教で慈悲の女神です。」
general : 名詞
意味: 将軍、軍の高官。A high-ranking officer in the army.
（坂上田村麻呂が清水寺の発展を支援した将軍であることを指す）
例文：
- The general led his troops to victory.
「その将軍は部隊を勝利に導きました。」 - Sakanoue no Tamuramaro was a famous general during the Heian period.
「坂上田村麻呂は平安時代の有名な将軍でした。」 - The general gave the order to retreat.
「将軍は撤退命令を出しました。」
stunning : 形容詞
意味: 驚くほど美しい、目を見張る。Extremely impressive or attractive.
（清水寺の舞台からの景色が驚くほど美しいことを表す）
例文：
- The sunset over the ocean was absolutely stunning.
「海の上の夕日は本当に素晴らしかった。」 - She wore a stunning dress to the party.
「彼女はパーティーに驚くほど美しいドレスを着ていきました。」 - The view from the top of the mountain was stunning.
「山頂からの景色は目を見張るほど美しかった。」