Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Shizuoka

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.