Byodoin

Originally a villa called Uji-dono that belongs to an aristocrat from the Heian Period, Fujiwara no Michinaga, the site was converted to a Buddhist temple by his son, Fujiwara no Yorimichi, in 1052 and renamed Byodoin. Amida-do Hall (Phoenix Hall) was completed in 1053, where a wooden statue of Amida Nyorai created by Buddhist art sculptor Jocho was enshrined. Amida-do Hall was built on an island in the center of Aji-ike Pond and is said to represent the Western Pure Land. It is a valuable architectural structure that illustrates the rich culture of the late Heian Period. In 1994, the temple was designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO as one of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto.

・The Phoenix Hall looks like it appeared straight out of the Pure Land
The Phoenix Hall is also famous for being featured on the back of the ten yen coin. The building was initially called Amida-do Hall, but in later years it became known as the Phoenix Hall because the architectural structure is reminiscent of the mythical bird spreading its wings. A wooden statue of Amida Nyorai is enshrined inside the hall, and the interior is adorned with images such as Unchu Kuyo Bosatsu (Praying Bodhisattva on Clouds), illustrations of Kuhon Raiko (the nine levels of descent by Amida Nyorai), and paintings of the Pure Land.

・Hoshokan Museum exhibits valuable treasures where visitors can immerse themselves in the history and beauty of the temple
Hoshokan Museum was opened in 2001 to store and exhibit the numerous temple treasures that have been passed down through the centuries. Among them are National Treasures such as ”The Phoenix,” 26 statues of ”Praying Bodhisattva on Clouds” and ”The Temple Bell” as well as Important Cultural Properties such as ”The Eleven-faced Kannon.”

・The elegant Bell Tower with a reproduction of Temple Bell, which is a National Treasure.
Bell Tower once held the Temple Bell, which is said to have been created around the 11th century. The bell, famous for its beautiful shape and previously a design for the 60-yen postage stamp, is now displayed in Hoshokan Museum. While the bell currently seen in Bell Tower is a reproduction, the structure nevertheless stands with the same elegance and beauty that it no doubt exuded during the Heian Period.

・Experience authentic Japanese tea inside a World Heritage Site
Tea Salon Toka, located within the grounds of Byodoin, offers visitors a taste of authentic Uji green tea. The original Japanese tea leaves produced meticulously by Japanese tea instructors are 100% made in Kyoto. The taste of traditional Japanese tea inside a World Heritage Site is sure to exceed your expectations and will become an experience to remember.