The main hall has a large balcony, supported by tall pillars, which juts out onto the hillside and offers an impressive view of the city. Large balconies and main lounges were built in many popular locations during the Edo period to accommodate a large number of pilgrims.

Under the main hall is the Otowa waterfall, where three water channels fall into a lake. Visitors can pick up and drink the water, which is believed to have powers of making wishes.

The temple complex includes some other Shinto temples, among them the Jishu Shrine, dedicated to Ookuninushi, a god of love and "good pair". The Jishu Shrine has a pair of "love stones" placed six feet apart, that visitors can try to walk them with their eyes closed. By succeeding in reaching the other stone with his eyes closed, the pilgrim would find the love of life or true love.

The complex also offers various talismans, incense, and omikuji (lucky papers). The place is particularly popular during festivals (especially in the New Year and during the summer)

In 2007, Kiyomizu-Dera was one of the 21 finalists of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. However, he was not chosen among the seven winning venues.