Byodo-in Temple, which shows the historical glory of the Fujiwara clan, was once a villa on the west bank of the Uji-gawa River. It belonged to Minamoto no Toru but was given to Fujiwara no Michinaga. His son, Yorimichi, converted it into a temple. The Houou-do (Phoenix Hall, a National Treasure), which is surrounded by the Aji-ike pond, demonstrates elements of the gardens of the Heian period (794-1185). The influence of the Heian aristocracy, who dreamt of entering the Pure Land of Amida Buddha, can be seen in the building. Byodo-in Temple is depicted on the 10-yen coin and is a familiar sight in Japan.
Meanwhile, the Byodo-in Museum Hoshokan exhibits precious items owned by the temple, such as the National Treasures of a Gilt Bronze Phoenix, "Unchu Kuyo Bosatsu" (Buddhist saints holding a mass in the clouds), and Bonshou (temple bells). Reproductions that made with computer graphics utilizing state-of-the-art digital technology can also be enjoyed in the museum.
- Tel
- 0774-21-2861
- Address
- 116 Uji Renge, Uji City, Kyoto Prefecture
- Access
- 10 minute walk from Uji Station on the Keihan Uji Line, or from Uji Station on the JR Nara Line
- Business Hours
- From 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 a.m. (Last admission 5:15 p.m.)
Hosho-kan Hall 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Last admission 4:45 p.m.)
Phoenix Fall Entry 9:30 a.m. - 4:10 p.m. (20 people may enter at a time)
*Reception Hours: Beginning at 9:00 a.m. on a first-come-first-served basis, until waiting visitors have entered.
Public Holiday: Open Throughout the Year - Parking
- Not available