The Byodo-In Temple on Oʻahu is a replica of a temple of the same name in Japan. It was built in honour of the first Japanese immigrants to Hawaiʻi. What makes it so special, and so different to its namesake, is the stunning backdrop of the green Koʻolau Mountains. I’m going to share my photos, some info, and tips on visiting.
Built in 1968, the temple welcomes people of all faiths. Although it hosts all kinds of events, it isn’t actually an active temple like its namesake in the sense that there are no monks.
It has a gift shop, meditation pavilion and a large brass bell. The pond is full of koi. You can buy healthy food for them in the gift shop. They’ll come rushing to it as soon as you drop it in. Inside the Phoenix Hall in the centre is a golden Amida (Lotus) Buddha statue.
The temple is surrounded by beautiful greenery. Look out for hibiscus flowers and hau trees.
It’s quite crowded and definitely feels a bit touristy (because it is a tourist attraction, of course), but not unbearably so.
I’ve been to a LOT of temples, including the original, so I wasn’t sure I’d care for this one. I’m glad I went because of that beautiful contrast between red and green. I loved feeding the koi and admiring the trees and flowers. It’s also locally culturally significant, because those downtrodden Japanese immigrants who came to work on the sugar and pineapple plantations made Hawaiʻi what it is today, along with the Chinese, Portuguese (👋🏼), Filipinos and Koreans.
How long to spend there
It depends what you want to see and do, of course. If you only want to admire the contrast between the red buildings and green mountains, you don’t really need more than 15 minutes.
If you want to feed the koi, allow an extra 10 minutes for buying the food and admiring them as they rush to the food you’ve dropped in.
If you’d like to sit in the meditation pavilion or enjoy the vibe in general, you might want to spend a few hours there.
Entry
The temple is open from 8:30am to 4:30pm.
As of 2026, ticket prices are:
- Adult: $10
- Senior: $8
- Child: $6
Kamaʻāina (resident) prices are a dollar less. Tickets can be bought online or at the temple.
How to get there
- By car: The address is 47-200 Kahekili Hwy Kaneohe, HI 96744. Car parking is $6.
- By public transport: Take the 65 bus to Hui IWA St + Hui Alaiaha Pl. From there, it’s about a mile to the temple on foot.
- By tour: Lots of tours go to the temple. Look for one that includes ‘Byodo-In Temple’ in its itinerary.
Any questions, feel free to ask!
Safe travels! 💖
– Maria
Atlas and a Camera 