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เกียวโต· Byodo-in Phoenix Hall
Byodoin Phoenix Hall (Hoodo) is the central building of Byodoin Temple in Uji, Kyoto Prefecture — an independent temple of mixed Tendai and Jodo affiliations linked to the Fujiwara clan. Built in 1053 by Fujiwara no Yorimichi when he converted his father Michinaga's villa into a temple, it served as the Amida Hall and is both a constituent property of the UNESCO «Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto» and a National Treasure. With its symmetrical silhouette crowned by a pair of phoenix figures, it appears on the reverse of the ¥10 coin and is among the most familiar pieces of historic architecture for Japanese people. The frontal view from across Aji Pond — a Heian aristocrat's vision of the Pure Land made earthly — has been cherished for over a thousand years.
Highlights
- Phoenix Hall (National Treasure) — symmetrical wings facing Aji Pond, a pair of phoenix figures on the roof, the very view depicted on the reverse of the ¥10 coin
- Aji Pond — pool spreading before the Phoenix Hall; on a windless dawn it forms a perfect mirror, with cherry blossoms and autumn colors as borrowed scenery
- Hosho-kan Museum — displays the National Treasure Amida Buddha statue and 26 «Cloud-borne Bodhisattvas,» peak masterpieces of Heian art
- Wisteria — over 280 years old, blooming in late April to early May; the purple wisteria with the vermilion Phoenix Hall is otherworldly
- Evening Illumination — held in limited spring and autumn periods; the vermilion-and-gold hall floating in darkness reflects across the pond
Quick Answers
What is Byodoin Phoenix Hall?
A UNESCO World Heritage temple in Uji, Kyoto Prefecture, built in 1053 by Fujiwara no Yorimichi. Its symmetrical silhouette floating on Aji Pond — depicted on the reverse of the ¥10 coin — is one of Japan's foremost works of historic architecture, embodying the Pure Land that Heian aristocrats yearned for.
Best photo position?
The classic shot is from the south side of Aji Pond, in forward light. The 8:30 AM opening offers the calmest water and brightest mirror reflection. Wisteria in late April, autumn colors in late November, and rare winter snow each add unique character.
What are admission fees and time required?
Garden plus Hosho-kan Museum is ¥600 for adults; interior tours of Phoenix Hall are an additional ¥300 (timed entry, capacity 50). Plan two hours for the gardens, three including the interior.
How do I get there?
From Kyoto Station, JR Nara Line to «Uji» Station, then 10-min walk — 18 min total, ¥250. Keihan «Uji» Station is also a 10-min walk away. The path from Uji Station to Byodoin is lined with historic Uji-tea shops (Nakamura Tokichi Honten, Tsujiri) — perfect for strolling before or after the shoot. Day trip from central Kyoto is easy.
About the Phoenix Hall interior tour?
Reservation-only, multiple times daily, 50 people per slot, ¥300 extra. Inside sit the National Treasure Amida statue (by Jocho, 1053) and 52 «Cloud-borne Bodhisattva» figures (also National Treasure). Photography forbidden inside, but the Hosho-kan Museum displays interior replicas, the original phoenix figures, and the temple bell — photographable.
Other attractions in Uji?
①Ujigami Shrine (UNESCO, oldest extant Heian-period shrine architecture) ②Uji River cormorant fishing (summer evenings July–September) ③Tea-leaf picking experience at Tea Industry Heritage Park (May) ④Murasaki Shikibu's «Tale of Genji» Uji Ten Chapters' setting. All within a 5-min walk or drive of Byodoin — half a day covers two World Heritage sites and Genji's world.
Practical Information
- Access
- 10-min walk from JR Uji Station. Keihan Uji Station also nearby.
- Parking
- Private lots ¥500-700/day.
- Admission
- Garden ¥600. Interior of Phoenix Hall additional ¥300 (reservation required).
- Duration
- 1 hr; 1.5 hr including the Hosho-kan museum.
- Best Time
- Right after 8:30 opening for mirror-still water.
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