While in the North Shore of Oahu I wanted to do something different. I had a strange hunch that they may have a temple on the island. After reading a few spiritual books lately I’ve been extremely intrigued with the Buddhist practice. I did some research and thanks to Pinterest I found exactly what I was hoping for! To the east of the island away from all of Honolulu’s madness, almost hidden behind the Valley of  the Temples Memorial Park (cemetery) stands the Byodo-In Temple. The temple is an exact replica (only smaller) of a 900+ year old Buddhist temple in Japan. It was built in 1968 to honor the 100 year anniversary of the first Japanese immigrants in Hawaii. How awesome right?!?
The scenic view of this temple is outstandingly breathtaking. The temple itself covers 11,000 sq ft. with an abundance of nature including trees and mountains behind it, not to mention this time of year the fog above the mountain’s peak made it all the more gorgeous. The pond in-front of the temple is home to black swans gifted from Australia along with hundreds of koi fish coming in all sizes and said to live to over 100 year old! Frogs, peacocks, birds, turtles and cats are among the other animals calling Byodo-In their home.
To the right of the temple you can walk through a Japanese style zen garden. To the left is a huge peace bell said to bring happiness and push away negativity.
Upon entering the temple there is a shoe rack to place your shoes as a sign of respect before entering and in the center stands an 18 ft tall Lotus Buddha with an incense tray you can burn used to purify your space and meditation.
I am ecstatic I found the Byodo-In Temple during my stay in Oahu (especially since it doesn’t really get advertised on normal activity searches online. If you’re heading to Oahu I strongly suggest stopping by to visit the peaceful serenity of the temple. Anyone and everyone is welcome including kids. (Gift shop sells fish food for the koi). Parking is free and entrance is only $5 per person. Donations greatly appriciated:). Hope you enjoyed this post!!
xo,
Carmen
