Byodo-In Temple

The Basics

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.

Things to Know Before You Go

• 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.

How to Get There

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.

When to Get There

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

Valley of the Temples

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.

Is there a walk at the Byodo-In Temple?

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.

Is there a dress code for the Byodo-In Temple?

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.

What is the purpose of the Byodo-In Temple?

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.

How long do you need to spend at the Byodo-In Temple?

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.

Can you go inside the Byodo-In Temple?

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.

Is the Byodo-In Temple worth visiting?

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.

Ways to explore

Must-see spots at the temple complex include the bonsho (sacred bell), a brass bell cast in Osaka and reputed to mirror the original bell hanging in the original temple in Uji, and the Amida Buddha, a seated Buddha sculpture housed in the temple's Phoenix Hall. Or, stop by the meditation pavilion or the reflection pond filled with koi. The temple is a popular stop on both half-day and full-day circle island tours, many of which include pickup from Waikiki.

Accessibility

The temple is wheelchair-accessible with ramps throughout, though some wheelchair users might find them steep.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Water bottle, sunscreen

What to wear

As this is a place of prayer, it’s best to dress modestly (beachwear isn’t allowed).

Not allowed

Pets (including emotional support animals), outside food for koi (approved fish food available for purchase at the gift shop), roughhousing

Amenities

Gift shop, restrooms

Address

Oahu’s Byodo-In Temple is tucked away in the Kahaluʻu Valley at the foot of the Koʻolau mountain range on the sprawling grounds of the Valley of the Temples Memorial Park.

Driving

From Waikiki, take Highway 1 West for about 16 miles (25.6 kilometers) to the Valley of the Temples Street, which leads straight to the temple.

Public transportation

Bus 65 connects Honolulu with the temple. Get off at the Hui IWA St and Hui Alaiaha Place stop and walk across the Valley of the Temples Memorial Park for just under a mile (0.9 km).

Best times to visit

Visit first thing in the morning to avoid crowds.

Best days to visit

The temple is open daily, except on Christmas and Thanksgiving. Visit midweek for the fewest people.

Best months to visit

March–May and September–November offer good weather, without the crowds that come with summer and winter school holidays.

Special events

The temple hosts regular events featuring musicians and artisans—see the temple's official website for details.