Byodo-In Temple

Constructed in 1968 to commemorate the centenary of the first Japanese arrivals, Byodo-In Temple is a popular place for Buddhist communities from both Hawaii and Japan to celebrate together. Although it’s not a practicing temple, visitors are welcome to wander the peaceful grounds. Check out the golden Buddha believed to be the largest of its kind carved outside of Japan, and the brass bell cast in Osaka and reputed to mirror the original bell hanging in the original Japanese temple. Or, stop by the meditation pavilion, or the reflection pond filled with hundreds of koi.

Many circle-island tours include the temple.

• Byodo-In Temple is a must for travelers interested in Japanese culture and architecture.

• There’s a small entrance fee.

• As the temple is a sacred space, be respectful and speak quietly.

• Remove your shoes before entering the temple.

Byodo-In Temple is about a 30-minute drive northeast of Honolulu. To get there by public transit, take bus 8 from Waikiki’s Kuhio Avenue to Ala Moana Center, then bus 65 to Kahekili Highway / Hui Iwa Street East. Walk across Kahekili Highway and enter the Valley of the Temples Memorial Park.

The grounds are usually open every day except Christmas. The temple hosts regular events featuring musicians and artisans—see the website for details.

The Byodo-In Temple is situated inside the beautifully landscaped Valley of the Temples. Much of the park is a cemetery honoring people of different faiths, including the heroic Chinese military leader General Chang Hsueh-liang, who died in Honolulu.

Yes, there is a short walk around Byodo-In Temple. It’s just around a half-mile (.8 kilometers), and the pathways are nice and smooth. Visitors are encouraged to explore both outside and inside the Buddhist temple, and you can even light incense and say a prayer inside if you like.

Yes, there’s a dress code for the Byodo-In Temple. Visitors must show respect by not wearing beach clothes when visiting the temple. It’s a place of worship, so visitors must behave accordingly. Do not yell, throw rocks or other items, or run around. Keep your voice low and polite.

The Byodo-In Temple replicates a larger one in Uji, Japan. It was built in 1963 in Honolulu to commemorate the centennial of the first Japanese immigrants in Hawaii. The name translates to “Temple of Equality.” It’s a Hawaii state landmark, but not many people know about it.

You need around an hour to explore Byodo-In Temple, walk around the grounds, and light some incense. You can stay longer, meditate, pray, or enjoy the natural area. Yet some visitors can zip through the temple in less than an hour.

Yes, you can go inside the Byodo-In Temple. Visitors are encouraged to explore. See the Buddha sculptures and all the intricate details, each with significant meaning. You can also spend as much time as you like in the gardens, all at the Ko-olau Mountains' base.

Yes, this Hawaiian state landmark is worth visiting. It is a beautiful replica of a larger version in Japan, with a special significance to Hawaiians and Japanese immigrants. Visitors of all religions are welcome, so it is not just for Buddhists. You might also find something special in the gift shop.