Byodo-in Temple

平等院

UNESCO World Heritage temple in Uji city featuring Phoenix Hall (Hoodo) depicted on 10 yen coin. Built 1053, represents Pure Land Buddhist architecture. One of few remaining Heian period temple buildings. Set on beautiful pond garden. Visit combines with Uji's famous green tea culture.

Visit: 1.5-2 hours (add time for Uji tea shops and Ujigami Shrine nearby)

Entrance: 600 yen garden and museum, Phoenix Hall interior tour +300 yen additional (first-come first-served, sells out fast)

Hours: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM (garden and museum), Phoenix Hall interior tours 9:30 AM - 4:10 PM (every 20 minutes, limited to 50 people per tour)

Highlights & Must-See Features

Phoenix Hall (Hoodo) - depicted on 10 yen coin (National Treasure)
Amida Buddha statue inside (National Treasure)
Beautiful pond garden with seasonal flowers
Museum with original Phoenix statues from roof
Wisteria arbor (late April-early May)
UNESCO World Heritage site
Nearby Uji green tea shops and Ujigami Shrine

📍 How to Get There

Nearest Station

Uji Station (JR Nara Line) - 10 minutes walk

Step-by-Step Directions

1 From Kyoto Station: JR Nara Line to Uji (17 minutes, 240 yen)
2 From Keihan Railway: Keihan Uji Station (8 min walk)
3 From station: 10 minute walk following signs along river
4 Combine with Ujigami Shrine and Uji green tea shops

Location & Maps

🗺️ Interactive map - zoom and pan to explore

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors

Latitude: 34.889421

Longitude: 135.807687

View Location on Google Maps Get Directions from Your Location Open in Apple Maps (iOS/Mac)

💡 Tip: "View Location" shows the temple on the map. "Get Directions" navigates from your current position.

Best Time to Visit

Early morning to secure Phoenix Hall interior tour tickets (limited capacity). Beautiful during wisteria season (late April-early May). Autumn foliage good. After visit, explore Uji tea shops.