Byodoin Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Uji, Japan

Uji Travel—Visiting Byodoin Temple (平等院; YouTube link)

Uji (宇治) , a picturesque town situated between Nara and Kyoto, is renowned for its historical significance, tea culture, and breathtaking autumn foliage. I first visited Uji in December 2016 to admire the autumn leaves and explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Byodoin Temple. In May 2023, I returned with my daughter to introduce her to this special place.

 Byodoin Temple (平等院)

The image of Byodoin Temple⭐⭐, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is featured on the reverse side of the ¥10 coin. This highlights its significant historical importance in Japan. Despite enduring war, fire, and years of neglect, its eleventh-century Phoenix Hall (鳳凰堂 ), adorned with a magnificent Amida Buddha statue, remains a stunning testament to Heian-period art.^[1]

Initial visit on December 3, 2016

View from the Hosho-kan Museum (鳳翔館)

Visiting Uji River for Its Autumn Colors (YouTube link)

Second Visit on 05/10/2023

Uji tea, characterized by its small leaves, deep green color, and refreshing aroma

Reference

1. Japan Travel: Visiting Uji for Its History and Tea
2. Kyoto and Nara: Rough Guides Snapshot Japan
3. Visiting Arashiyama (嵐山) in Kyoto—Personal Experience
4. Visiting Ohara in Kyoto—Personal Experience
5. Visiting Nigatsudo Hall (二月堂) in Nara—Personal Experience
6. Visiting Yoshiki-en Garden (吉城園 / よしきえん) in Nara—Personal Experience
7. Visiting Fushimi Inari Taisha (伏見稲荷大社)—Personal Experience
8. Temple Lodging in Koyasan—Personal Experience
9. A Solo Trip Can Be A Disaster If You Forget These 7 Rules