The Hawaiian Islands are a true melting pot: with no true ethnic majority, you will find countless different cultures on display throughout the islands, including Japanese. Nestled at the base of the striking Ko’olau Mountains on Oahu’s Windward Coast is a breathtaking Buddhist temple that will quickly transport you to Japan. This is the Byodo-In Temple in Hawaii, and it is an absolute must-visit for anyone living — or vacationing — in Hawaii.
Located within the Valley of the Temples Memorial Park in Kaneohe, the Byodo-In Temple is a half-size-scale replica of a famous temple in Kyoto, Japan that is more than 950 years old AND a United Nations World Heritage Site. The Hawaii replica, however, is less than 100 years old. The shrine was dedicated in 1968 to commemorate the 100-year anniversary of the first Japanese immigrants in Hawaii.
After you pay the $5 entrance fee and cross the stunning wooden bridge leading to the temple, you will be transported quickly to either Japan or perhaps a land you've only ever dreamed of.
To your left, before you enter the temple, you will a three-ton brass peace bell you can ring for yourself.
Enter the temple and be amazed by the incredible architecture and handcrafted statues. Just don’t forget to take your shoes off at the door.
Pictured above is an 18-foot statue of the Lotus Buddha.
As you slowly meander through the grounds, you will find stunning statues, a large reflecting pond, meditation areas, and small waterfalls throughout the lush and beautifully-landscaped grounds.
The temple grounds are also home to wild peacocks, swans, and hundreds of Japanese koi carp that swim freely in koi ponds that cover nearly two acres.
The striking temple couldn’t be located in a more picturesque setting, and you won’t find a better spot to reflect, relax, and take in Hawaii’s natural beauty and history anywhere else on the island.
Sit on a bench and listen to the sounds of birds chirping, the wind rustling through the trees, and water flowing through the streams. Watch the koi fish dance as visitors feed them, and admire the beauty of the majestic temple in front of you. You might also smell lavender wafting through the air, or perhaps incense being burned in the nearby gift shop full of goodies to take home.
It’s impossible not to feel at peace here.
Please note that, though it is not a practicing Buddhist temple, it is still important to be respectful and quiet at all times.
The temple is located at 47-200 Kahekili Hwy, Kaneohe, HI 96744, and is open daily from 8:30 a.m to 5 p.m.
Have you been to the Byodo-In Temple in Hawaii and found it to be a bit too crowded for true meditation? Why not join a Saturday meditation session at Mu Ryang Sa Korean Buddhist Temple, a slice of paradise hiding in Oahu’s lush Manoa Valley.
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