Buddhist temple in Uji

#summervacay Byōdō-in is a breathtaking Buddhist temple in Uji, Kyoto Prefecture—most famous for its stunning Phoenix Hall (Hōō-dō), which graces the reverse side of Japan’s 10-yen coin. Founded: Built in 998 as a villa, converted into a temple in 1052 by Fujiwara no Yorimichi; the Phoenix Hall completed in 1053 . Architecture: The Phoenix Hall, a National Treasure, mirrors the shape of a phoenix with twin corridors and ornamental bird statues on its roof, and has survived intact from the Heian era . Interior: Houses a glorious 2.4 m golden Amida Buddha statues by sculptor Jōchō, surrounded by 52 bodhisattvas on clouds—the hall is accessible via timed guided tours (in Japanese), with an English leaflet available . #japan #temple #byodointemple #thingstodo