What other travelers are saying about Byodo-in Temple
This temple is the one on the 10 cent of the Japanese Yen coin. I really wanted to see it. So when my family decided to go to Uji in Kyoto for matcha, I made sure to visit the Byodo-in Temple. It is really beautiful. And as you go around the structure. The path will take you inside the Byodo-in Museum. Photography inside is not allowed so I don't have photos to show here. But it is a sight to see. This site is not that big and there are benches near the wisteria tree to sit and rest while you enjoy the view. Do try and visit.
Great place to visit and relax. Also great opportunity to get some walking in your day. Don’t just enjoy the temple but also enjoy the surrounding area and take a walk along the river too. Take your time and soak in the entire experience. Done right you’ll end your day relaxed and ready for the evening.
This temple is a must if you’re near Uji! Our group did a last minute visit with buying the tickets on site. It was very easy and fast. There are machines from which you can just order and get your tickets. Very fast and efficient like most stuff around this corner of the world.
Would also like to mention there’s a free museum entry on site to which you won’t see most advertised places. It was 800¥ to go in and it was worth the whole experience. Although it was super hot… 🥵
Lovely temple on a lake. Entry is ¥700 + an additional ¥300 for entry to the Phoenix Hoo-do Hall (separate queue for the hut on the right after you enter with staggered entry times). We arrived at 12.45pm with entry time of 1.30pm for the Hoo-do Hall and walked around the left side of the lake and completed museum before our time. The interior is quite small hence why few people are allowed inside at a time, the Bodhisattva is imposing and grand but murals are faded due to the temple age. You can see murals replicated in the museum so I wouldn't say it's a must do to go inside.
Byodoin is a stunning place to visit, even on a cloudy day. In fact, the overcast weather made the small pond look especially calm and reflective, adding to the peaceful atmosphere.
The main temple building is beautifully preserved and looks majestic from across the water—definitely a great spot for photos. The Phoenix Hall is iconic, but honestly, entering it might not be necessary unless you're very interested in the interior or historical details. The exterior view is more than enough to appreciate its beauty.
Highly recommended for a quiet, scenic stop with lots of photo opportunities.
It is famous for its Phoenix Hall (Hoo-do), which symbolizes the Buddhist Pure Land and is featured on the Japanese 10-yen coin. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage site, part of the "Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto".
Visitors can explore the Phoenix Hall, admire its Amida Buddha statue, and see the temple's collection of art and artifacts in the Hoshokan Museum. The temple gardens are also a significant attraction.
It is open all year round, the best time during the cherry blossom season in spring. However, its beauty can be appreciated in every season.
Photography restrictions may apply, especially inside the Phoenix Hall and museum areas, to preserve the tranquility and condition of the artifacts and interiors. Always check the current policy upon your visit.
Nearby attractions include green tea shops in Uji, Ujigami Shrine, Kosho-ji Temple, Mount Daikichi, and other cultural and historical sites.
