In 1502, a Regent Fujiwara Yorimichi (藤原頼通) succeeded to his father's villa in Uji (宇治) city, and reformed it into a Buddhist temple. Ever since then, the temple has been referred to as Gokurakujyodo (極楽浄土, Buddhism Pure Land) thanks to its heavenly scenery.
If you wish to see beautiful Wisteria flowers in Kyoto, Byodoin is the place to visit. This year, almost 20 thousands of clusters are blooming and the view is just gorgeous. The graceful scenery must have been loved by many Heian nobles too. The combination of the Hou-oh-doh (鳳凰堂, the Phonix Hall) and the flowers creates this incredibly beautiful atmosphere.
The sweet scent of the flowers is also wonderful. I agree that Byodoin in this 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:
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