A complete guide to the Byodoin temple in Uji, Kyoto
Autumn illuminations at Byodoin. Image Copyright: Ollie Ronin
Introduction
Byodoin (Byodo-in) is a 1000-year-old temple (est. 998) located in the famous matcha city of Uji, right next to Kyoto. The temple is featured on Japan's 10 yen coin and is well-known for its prominent architecture. Entry tickets to the temple grounds also include access to an impressive modern museum showcasing artifacts from the temple's ancient history.
Table of Contents
Location & Access
Byodoin is located southeast of Kyoto in the small city of Uji, which is known as the birthplace of matcha tea. There are two train stations for Uji, one for the Keihan line and one for the JR line, both of which are a 10-minute walk to the temple.
The autumn illuminations for Byodo-in for 2024 are only available with an online reservation to prevent overcrowding. The illuminations this year are running for three weekends on: 16th & 17th Nov, 23rd & 24th Nov, and 30-Nov to 1-Dec.
🕗 Opening Hours
Normal Hours: 8:30am - 5:15pm
Autumn Illumination: 6pm - 830pm
📍 Location
Uji, South-East Kyoto. (Google Maps)
50-minute train from Downtown or Gion
25-minute train from Kyoto Station
💴 Entry Price
¥700 per person
Autumn Illumination: ¥1500
Illumination Reservations: Book online
Seasons
🌸 Cherry Blossoms
Late March to early April
🍁 Autumn Leaves
Mid-November to early December
☀️ Summer
June - August.
Average temp. 32°C
❄️ Winter
Snowfall. 1-3 times per year.
Interesting Facts & History
Byodoin was originally built in 998 as a countryside retreat for the powerful politician Fujiwara no Michinaga.
After his death, his son turned the property into a Buddhist temple in 1052.
The most famous building in the temple is the Phoenix Hall, constructed in 1053. Access to the the Phoenix Hall requires a special tour and it's the only remaining original structure, the other buildings were often damaged by fire or natural disasters, one of the most significant fires occurred during a civil war in 1336.
Two golden phoenix statues sit atop the temple building, representing rebirth, good luck, and protection for Buddha.
Featured on Japan's 10 yen coin.
Nearby Attractions
A sunset view of Uji while walking to Byodoin. Image Copyright: Ollie Ronin
Byodoin is located in Uji City, a beautiful area located along the river, and famous for being the birthplace of matcha. Uji has a variety of nice restaurants, tea houses, cormorant fishing, and places where you can book a tea ceremony or learn about matcha. One particular recommendation is a matcha-making experience at one of the oldest teahouses in Uji, located here. Or join an official tea ceremony in the traditional Taihoan Teahouse. In addition to Byodoin, Uji has a few nice temples worth checking out, such as the Kosho-ji Temple.
