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Japan/Things to Do in Kyoto, with kids

Byodoin (with kids)

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How Kids-Friendly is Byodoin?

76%Kids-Friendly
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What makes it 76% Kids-Friendly: School-age children learn history and collect temple stamps, but no play equipment and Phoenix Hall tour requires silence, so interest may fade after an hour.

Google
Reviews4.5/ 5
(from 20,311 reviews)
Uji: 20 Mins from Kyoto, Off the Beaten Path Day Trip!  ⛩️🍵 Byodoin Temple & Matcha Snacks 💚
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Uji: 20 Mins from Kyoto, Off the Beaten Path Day Trip! ⛩️🍵 Byodoin Temple & Matcha Snacks 💚
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uji vlog 🇯🇵 a healing day trip from kyoto, byodoin temple, uji river, land of matcha 🍵
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uji vlog 🇯🇵 a healing day trip from kyoto, byodoin temple, uji river, land of matcha 🍵
13.5K views • 2 years ago
เที่ยวญี่ปุ่น Uji, Kyoto เมืองแห่งมัชฉะ เที่ยววัด Byodoin ชมดอกซากุระ full bloom
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เที่ยวญี่ปุ่น Uji, Kyoto เมืองแห่งมัชฉะ เที่ยววัด Byodoin ชมดอกซากุระ full bloom
7.2K views • 2 years ago
UJI DAY TRIP FROM KYOTO (Eating matcha noodles, matcha grinding, Byodoin Temple) | Japan Diaries
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UJI DAY TRIP FROM KYOTO (Eating matcha noodles, matcha grinding, Byodoin Temple) | Japan Diaries
4.2K views • 1 year ago

Positives:

  • Stroller-Friendly: Gravel paths are mostly smooth and staff can store strollers safely.
  • Cultural Learning: Free audio guide app offers kid-friendly stories about the Phoenix Hall.

Challenges:

  • Uneven Paths: Some garden paths have loose gravel that may be tricky for strollers.
  • Quiet Zones: Kids must stay quiet during the interior tour inside Phoenix Hall.
  • Midday Crowds: Lines at the ticket booth can grow around noon, so plan accordingly.
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What is Byodoin?

  • A Heian-period Buddhist temple complex in Uji, Kyoto, exemplifying Pure Land garden design
  • The Phoenix Hall, completed in 1053, houses a revered Amida Nyorai statue and holds National Treasure status
  • Surviving structures—the Phoenix Hall, Kannon-do, and bell tower—stand within a reflective pond garden inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site

What is so special about Byodoin for with kids?

  1. Photograph Phoenix Hall’s iconic reflection in Aji Pond
  2. Let kids run and play on the Ougi-no Shiba lawn
  3. Join a short interior tour to see the Amida Buddha statue
  4. Collect colorful goshuin stamps as a family keepsake
  5. Enjoy matcha and sweets at a stroller-accessible tea room
  6. Free audio guide and smooth paths enrich the visit

Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours

Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time to see Phoenix Hall, explore gardens, join a short interior tour, and enjoy a tea break without rushing kids.

(View Byodoin on Map)

Kids-Friendly Activities in Byodoin

Phoenix Hall & Pond Reflection:

Walk the pond’s edge to view and photograph Phoenix Hall’s mirrored roof statue.

Tip: Arrive early for calm water and clear reflections.

Ougi-no Shiba Lawn Play:

Let kids run or play on the open grass lawn in front of the hall.

Tip: Bring a small ball or kite for extra fun.

Phoenix Hall Interior Tour:

Join the ¥300 guided tour to see the Amida Nyorai statue up close.

Tip: Book the first slot at 9:30 when the group is smaller and quieter.

Goshuin Stamp Collection:

Collect temple calligraphy stamps for a family keepsake.

Tip: Share one stamp book to reduce costs and let each child choose a design.

Tea & Sweets at Sabo Toka:

Taste Uji matcha and original sweets in a stroller-friendly tea room.

Tip: Order matcha ice cream for kids and sip quietly near the garden view.

When is the best time to visit Byodoin (Kyoto, Japan)?

Spring’s cherry blossoms frame the pond in early April. Summer lotus bloom in July. Autumn leaves peak in late November. Winter visits are quiet and crisp.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Kyoto on Trip.com

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Reviews of Byodoin (Kyoto)

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Duy Tran

Duy Tran

Jun 2025

The temple was very pretty, and because the fact it was in the cherry blossom people there was nothing else that beautiful around. The ancient buddha statue inside of the temple is actually very cool. Near the temple is a lot of (mostly ice cream and dessert) shops, so I got some pretty good snacks.

X Pan

X Pan

Jun 2025

Byodoin is a stunning place to visit, even on a cloudy day. In fact, the overcast weather made the small pond look especially calm and reflective, adding to the peaceful atmosphere. The main temple building is beautifully preserved and looks majestic from across the water—definitely a great spot for photos. The Phoenix Hall is iconic, but honestly, entering it might not be necessary unless you're...

Daniel Toeuk

Daniel Toeuk

May 2025

Nice place to visit, just be aware that there is a 700 yen entry fee and there is an additional fee if you want to see inside the temple (didn't go in, so can't tell you what the price is). There is a small museum, honestly not the best, as there were essentially no English translations, so I was not even sure what I was looking at. The grounds itself were very well maintained, and it is worth v...

Pandu Muhammad

Pandu Muhammad

May 2025

Such well-maintained temple with a picturesque architecture. The reflections on the water adds dramatic effect. There are beautiful patches of wisteria flowers in the temple complex, drawing in quite the crowd. Walking around the temple complex is serene. There are traditional old houses with well-kept gardens you can enjoy. Walking towards and from this temple is also an experience in itself b...

Zainuri Hanif

Zainuri Hanif

Apr 2025

Visiting Byodoin Temple in Uji was one of the most memorable highlights of my trip to Japan. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a breathtaking blend of architectural elegance, natural beauty, and deep historical significance. The iconic Phoenix Hall, with its brilliant vermilion color and graceful symmetry, appears to float above a serene pond. Its reflection in the still water creates a post...

Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Standard admission (2 adults)JPY 1,400
Standard admission (2 children)JPY 600
Phoenix Hall interior tour (3 people)JPY 900
Goshuin stamps (4 people)JPY 1,200
Tea & snacks at Sabo Toka (4 people)JPY 3,200
Total EstimatedJPY 7,300

Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Byodoin

  1. Early Arrival: Get to the temple at 9:00 to avoid lines and enjoy calm reflections.
  2. Pre-Download Audio Guide: Install the free audio guide on your phone before you arrive.
  3. Shared Goshuincho: Use one stamp book for the whole family to save on goshuin fees.
🚗 Planning to explore multiple Kyoto attractions? A rental car often costs less than daily taxi trips. Check Trip.com for deals. New users save up to 8% OFF.

Map of Byodoin

Address: Renge-116 Uji, Kyoto 611-0021, Japan

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About Byodoin

Opening Hours

Monday:8:45 AM – 5:30 PM
Tuesday:8:45 AM – 5:30 PM
Wednesday:8:45 AM – 5:30 PM
Thursday:8:45 AM – 5:30 PM
Friday:8:45 AM – 5:30 PM
Saturday:8:45 AM – 5:30 PM
Sunday:8:45 AM – 5:30 PM

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

Phone Number

+81 774-21-2861

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