Hawaii (Part Eight) The Byodo-in Temple

The Byodo-In Temple was a site I did not want to miss. Nae hadn't been there either, so it was a first for both of us. I was sorry Nemy had left the day before because it was an amazing site to visit. It was very peaceful, beautiful and calming. I would highly recommend it to anyone visiting Oahu.

It was built in the 1960's to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the arrival of the first Japanese immigrant workers in Hawaii who came to work in the sugar plantation fields. It is a replica of the 950-year-old Byodoin Temple located in Uji, Japan on the southern outskirts of Kyoto.

As a Lost fan, I should have known, but it wasn't until after I got home that I found out it was used as a filming location in the first season of Lost, where it served as the home of the Sun's powerful father. I'll have to break out my DVD Box set to check it out.

Lisa on the bridge to the temple.

There is a five-foot, three-ton brass Peace Bell on your left after you cross the bridge. This large bell can be heard throughout Kahaluu when rung. Ringing the bell will purify the mind of evil spirits and temptation. It is said that ringing this bell will bring you happiness, blessings, and a long life. It is customarily rung before entering the temple. Nae and I both gave a donation and rang the bell. The sound was deep and soothing.

Nae ringing the Peace Bell.

Like its counterpart in Japan, the temple building itself is called the Hoodo or Hall of the Chinese Phoenix as its floor plan models that of the bird. A Hoodo consists of a decorated main temple building, two wings on the left and right sides with tail corridor at the rear. Chinese phoenixes are used to decorate both ends of the roof.

The highlight of the temple is the non-foot Lotus Buddha so named because he sits upon a lotus flower. This is the largest wooden Buddha carved in over 900 years. It is stained in a black lacquer and decorated in gold leaf. My picture does not do this beautiful piece of art justice.

The Lotus Buddha. Following Nae's example,
I lit incense in front of the Buddha.

Nae and I outside the temple.

Lisa in her "L likes to hike" pose.

Lisa next to the bamboo forest in the back gardens of the temple.

This was my second favorite activity/place in Hawaii. My favorite, best, number one place in Hawaii is up next!