The
serene Byodo-In Temple, on Oahu's windward side, is a
replica of the famous temple by the same name in Kyoto,
Japan. The hall resembles the "ho-o," a mythological
bird of Chinese origin. Both ends of the roof are decorated
with images of these phoenix-like birds, and the building
is also called the Ho-o-do, or Phoenix Hall. A 7-ton bronze
bell is on the structure, built of termite-proof cement.
The beautiful grounds include a two-acre reflecting lake,
peacocks, swans, ducks, meditation niches, and little
waterfalls. The mountains in the background and the lush
gardens complete the scene.
