In 1502, a Heian (平安) period Regent Yorimichi Fujiwara (藤原頼通) received a villa in Uji (宇治) city from his father, Michinaga (道長), and converted it into a Buddhist temple. The temple has been referred to as Gokurakujyodo (極楽浄土, Buddhism Pure Land) since then thanks to its heavenly scenery.
If you wish to see beautiful Wisteria flowers, Byodoin is the place to visit. The number of Wisteria flower clusters this year at Byodoin amounts to almost 20 thousands. In front of Hou-oh-doh (鳳凰堂, Phoenix Hall), Wisteria flowers in light purple are gorgeously blooming. The grace must have been loved by the Heian noblemen too. I guess what brings the flowers into prominence is the view of Hou-oh-doh. The sweet scent is also wonderful. I agree that Byodoin in the Wisteria season can be a real reemergence of Gokurakujyodo. Akane Kibune
Kyoto Certificate 1st Grade
URL:
https://www.byodoin.or.jp/
Access:
10 mins. on foot from Uji station, Keihan Uji line
MAP:
