Religious site
Byōdō-in
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Byōdō-in, located in Uji, is a stunning Buddhist temple and UNESCO World Heritage site originally built as a villa for a courtier before becoming a temple. Its iconic Phoenix Hall, named for the phoenix statues on its roof, is depicted on the 10-yen coin. Visitors can explore the hall's interior to see the Amida Buddha statue and stroll through the tranquil garden, designed to represent the Pure Land paradise. The temple's reflection in the pond offers a quintessential Japanese scene.
Don't miss
- View the Phoenix Hall and its reflection in the pond, a classic Japanese image.
- See the wooden Amida Buddha statue inside the Phoenix Hall.
- Walk the garden paths that evoke the Pure Land paradise.
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Byōdō-in
You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inKyoto Full-Day Bus Tour: Nijo, Arashiyama & Fushimi Inari (EN/ES)4.9★ · 801 travelers~11 hoursFree cancellationFrom$33 per personSee dates →
Best full dayHidden Gems of Oahu Circle Island Tour with Byodo In Temple4.9★ · 4,001 travelers~9 hoursFree cancellationFrom$159 per personSee dates →
Private & flexibleUji and Wazuka Matcha Farm Half Day Private Guided Tour5★ · 42 travelers~4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$360 per personSee dates →More attractions in Uji