The Byodo-in temple originally was a Fujiwara villa. The Fujiwara were a Japanese political family who dominated the imperial court from the 9th to the 12th centuries. In 1052 it was converted into a Buddhist temple. Its ‘Phoenix Hall ‘ was built in 1053. This hall is the only original building remaining. Rest of the temple has been completely renovated. This main hall of the temple was built to depict Buddha’s palace in paradise.
The temple’s architecture is unique. The warm red and white architecture has sweeping lines and the appearance of a majestic bird spreading its wings. The reflection of the temple in the large water pond in front of it gives the impression of gliding above the Earth. This view is one of the most famous scenes in Japan, and it has been replicated on the back of the 10 yen coin since 1951.
The temple has the statue of Amida Buddha (Sanskrit: Sukhāvatī), which means Buddha of immeasurable light and limitless life. This statue is also called as Amitabha Tathagata statue and is designated as National Treasure of Kyoto. Bodhisattvas in a variety of poses, playing instruments or reading sutras are around the main statue. All of these are very lively statues. Many elements of the temple are now in the Hosho-kan Museum including the temple bell and ornaments of the Phoenix roof. It is one of the few surviving examples of Heian Period (794-1185) architecture. Uji City, where this temple is located is a town famous for tea, tea ceremony, and its picturesque riverside areas. Small tea pouches are sold as souvenirs in the shops at the entrance of the temple.
Earth, water, fire, wind, and sky are the five elements of nature revered by mankind since ages. These elements find place in temples and places of worship across all cultures. Bharatiya philosophy has been woven around these five elements. In temples of Japan, the integration of these five elements is not only rich and vivid but also gives a distinct definition of Japanese aesthetics.
