History Of Byodoin Temple, Uji
Byodoin Temple was noted as a temple since 1062. It is a Buddhist temple that was built initially as a nobleman’s villa in 998. In 1062, it was converted to the temple you see today by an emperor’s regent. This temple is well-known for its gardens, one of the only remaining Pure Land Buddhist temple gardens.
This Pure Land paradise is unique because it is not intentionally formed or planned out like gardens created in the current time. These particular gardens take into account the total land and create a design meant to bring peace to visitors and connect them with nature.
What To See At Byodoin Temple, Uji
Byodoin Temple is an impressive place with many things to see. Below you’ll find some of the significant places you need to see.
Phoenix Hall
The Phoenix Hall is a central part of Byodoin Temple, both in significance and size. It is said that this is the only section of the Byodoin Temple that remains from the original build. The Phoenix Hall was initially built to be the final spot for a seated Buddha statute.
Note: There is an additional cost to visit this portion of the Byodoin Temple.
National Treasures
Byodoin Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it holds multiple beloved Japanese treasures. There are two phoenix statues that sit on top of Phoenix Hall. These are said to be the protectors of Amida Buddha – hence why they are included. This is also why the building protecting the Buddha statue was built in the name of this creature.
Kannon Hall
Kannon Hall (also known as Kannon-do) is on the temple’s north side and has a statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, with 11 heads.
Hoshokan Museum
Another notable spot is the Hoshokan Museum. This is the museum for the Byodoin Temple. Here you can view the treasures up close and personal. It’s a great way to learn more about the history of this spot.
How To Get To Uji
Byodoin Temple is most easily reached by train. There are two routes you can take to get to the temple.
If you are heading to Uji from Kyoto Station, you can take the Jr Nara Line. This train line will drop you off at Uji JR. Station. The other option would be leaving from the JR Nara Station; there is also a direct train to Uji. Once you arrive in Uji, it will be about a 15-minute walk from the station to the town center and temple grounds.
Address:
Byodoin Temple sits at 116 Ujirenge, Uji, Kyoto Prefecture.
Additional Information:
There is a 600 yen fee for entry into Byodoin Temple. If you decide to visit Phoenix Hall as well, there is an additional 300 yen fee.
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