Byodoin Temple

Flow of the course

About this spot

A UNESCO World Heritage temple famous from the design on the 10-yen coin, founded in 1052 by Regent Fujiwara Yorimichi during the Heian period. The Phoenix Hall (Hoo-do), built the following year, is breathtakingly elegant, with its vermillion pillars and wing corridors beautifully mirrored in the waters of the Aji Pond—it's easy to understand why it is said to represent the Pure Land of paradise realized in this world. The adjoining Museum Hoshokan (鳳翔館) allows you to view up close the National Treasure pair of phoenixes that once adorned the roof, cloud-dwelling Bodhisattvas, the bronze bell, and other treasures. Gazing through the glass at the serene expressions of the Buddhist statues, you'll lose track of time. The temple is also renowned as a wisteria viewing spot, and the combination of seasonal flowers with the Phoenix Hall creates a picture-perfect landscape. Along the main approach, tea houses line the street, and sampling local snacks before or after your visit is a uniquely Uji experience.

Tips

About 10 minutes' walk from either JR Uji Station or Keihan Uji Station. Internal viewing of the Phoenix Hall operates on a same-day, first-come, time-slot reservation system (additional ¥300), and on busy days may close by mid-morning—so after entering the grounds, be sure to book your interior visit slot first. The main approach is lined with matcha sweets shops, so plan your post-visit snacking accordingly. The grounds feature many gravel paths but are relatively flat and easy to walk.

Best time to visit

Approximately 1.5 hours. Early morning right after opening has fewer crowds, allowing you to view the Phoenix Hall reflected in the Aji Pond in peaceful solitude.

Access & map

〒611-0021 京都府宇治市宇治蓮華１１６