How long should you spend at Byōdo-in Temple?

Visitors typically stay for 1-2 hours.

When is the best time to visit Byōdo-in Temple?

The temple is generally peaceful, but can get busy.

Byōdo-in Temple

Buddhist TempleTourist AttractionPlace Of Worship

4.5

(21.9k)

Byōdo-in is a Buddhist temple in Uji, Kyoto Prefecture, originally built in 998 as a rural villa before being converted into a temple in 1052. It's a significant site for Pure Land Buddhism, with its most famous building, the Phoenix Hall, being the only original structure to survive a civil war in 1336. The temple grounds include a scenic pond and garden, and an excellent museum.

Address

Renge-116 Uji, Kyoto 611-0021, Japan

Website

https://www.byodoin.or.jp/

Opening Hours

8:45 AM – 5:30 PM (Sat)

Phone

+81 774-21-2861

Explore nearby

Worth it?

Worth it for a peaceful and culturally rich experience, especially if you appreciate historical architecture and well-kept gardens

Skip if you're looking for a massive temple complex like Inari, as Byōdo-in is smaller and has an entrance fee

Reviewers consistently praise the stunning architecture of the Phoenix Hall and the peaceful atmosphere of the temple grounds.4 mentions

The museum is considered informative and a valuable part of the visit.3 mentions

One reviewer found the temple less impressive compared to larger, free alternatives like Inari Temple, especially given the entrance fee.1 mention

Some descriptions in the museum are only in Japanese, which can be a drawback for non-Japanese speakers.1 mention

Location

Renge-116 Uji, Kyoto 611-0021, Japan

Highlights

The iconic Phoenix Hall is beautifully reflected in the surrounding pond, creating a serene and picturesque view.

The admission fee includes access to an excellent museum, which offers informative exhibits about the temple's history and artifacts.

You can take a guided tour of the Phoenix Hall's interior to see the Amida Buddha statue up close.

Nearby eats

See more eats

Nakamura Tokichi Byodo-in

Cafe

Nakamura Tokichi Honten (Main Store)

Dessert Restaurant

Itoh Kyuemon - JR Uji Station / Sabo

Cafe

Who it's for

Good for kids

Couples

Solo

Friends

Family with kids

Wheelchair entrance

Accessible restroom

No accessible parking

This temple is ideal for anyone interested in Japanese history, culture, and architecture, especially those who appreciate a serene and spiritual atmosphere. It's also good for families, as the grounds are well-maintained and the museum is informative.

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Know before you go

Entrance to the temple grounds and museum costs ¥600, with an additional ¥300 required to enter the Phoenix Hall.

The temple is open daily, with slightly shorter hours in winter (December-February: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM) compared to other months (March-November: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM).

While the museum is included in the admission, photos are not allowed inside.

Reviews

4.5

Exceptional

5 Reviews

Visitors generally find Byōdo-in Temple to be a beautiful and peaceful destination, with the Phoenix Hall and its reflection in the pond being a major highlight. The included museum is also highly regarded for its informative exhibits. While many appreciate the serene atmosphere, some note that it's smaller than other temples and has an admission fee.