Byodoin (平等院) is a historic temple in Japan. It is also one of the most popular and beautiful temples in the country. It is located at Renge-116 in Uji City, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan.
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| Byodoin |
Byodoin details
Byodoin was originally constructed in 998 during the Heian period as a rural villa for Minamoto no Shigenobu, a high-ranking courtier. After his death, Fujiwara no Michinaga, a powerful member of the Fujiwara clan, acquired the property. His son, Fujiwara no Yorimichi, converted the villa into a Buddhist temple in 1052. The temple’s Phoenix Hall, completed in 1053, houses a renowned Amida Buddha statue sculpted by Jōchō, a leading artist of the era.
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| Byodoin - Uji City, Kyoto Prefecture |
In 1336, a fire set by samurai Masashige Kusunoki during a conflict with the Ashikaga Clan severely damaged the temple, leaving only a few structures intact. Byodoin gradually expanded during the Kamakura Period, with new buildings such as Jodo-in Temple and Saisho-in Temple added later. Despite suffering from a major fire in 1698, which led to further damage, restoration efforts intensified.
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| Byodo-in Omotemon (Front Gate) and the ticket booth |
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| Byodo-in Omotemon (Front Gate) |
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| Byodo-in Kannondo |
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| Byodo-in Saisho-in |
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| Fudodo and Ikeden Jizo statue |
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| Minamoto no Yorimasa's graveyard |
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| Byodoin Museum |
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| Inside Byodoin Museum |
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| Byodo-in Shoro (Bell Tower) |
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| Byodo-in Jodo-in |
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| One of the chozuya on the temple grounds |
Significant renovations took place during the Meiji and Showa periods, with the Phoenix Hall and Amida Buddha statues being designated National Treasures in 1951. Byodoin was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994 as part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto.
Byodoin's Phoenix Hall
The Phoenix Hall, the temple's most famous structure, remains the only original building, surrounded by a picturesque pond and featured on the 10 yen coin. Restoration efforts continue into the present day.
Team Nicerio visits Byodoin
My family and I visited Byodoin for the first time last January 11, 2023. It was my 436th day here in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme. During our visit, we did our family tradition of offering prayers and making a wish. We do this for all the religious places that we visit regardless of what religion. We also visited the temple’s museum. Aside from that, I also got the temple’s goshuin for my goshuin collection.
Byodoin Admission Fee
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| Byodoin Admission Fee |
To visit Byodoin's grounds, garden, and the Byodoin Temple Museum "Hoshokan," adults are charged 700 yen, junior high school students 400 yen, and elementary school students 300 yen. Visitors with disabilities and one accompanying person receive a 50% discount.
For entry to the Phoenix Hall, a separate fee of 300 yen must be paid at the garden's reception. Access to the interior is limited to a maximum of 20 people every 20 minutes.
Byodoin Operating Hours
Byodoin is open from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
Why visit Byodoin?
Visiting Byodoin Temple is worthwhile for its historical and cultural value. Built sometime in 1052, it features the famous Phoenix Hall, which is depicted on the 10 yen coin and houses a notable Buddha statue. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Byodoin showcases Heian-period architecture and art. The temple’s serene setting by a picturesque pond enhances the experience, and ongoing preservation keeps its historical significance accessible to visitors. Additionally, if you're collecting goshuin, Byodoin is a must-visit.
Getting to Byodoin
To get to Byodoin Temple from Kyoto Station, follow these steps:
1. Take the JR Nara Line: Board a train on the JR Nara Line at Kyoto Station. The Nara Line offers a direct route to Uji Station.
2. Arrive at Uji Station: The train ride from Kyoto Station to Uji Station typically takes about 20 minutes.
3. Walk to Byodoin Temple: From Uji Station, it’s a 15-20 minute walk to Byodoin Temple. Follow signs or use a map to navigate to the temple, which is well-signposted from the station.
Alternatively, you can take a bus or a taxi from Uji Station to Byodoin Temple if you prefer not to walk.
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