No doubt the visit to Byodo In Temple was one of the highlights of our recent visit to Oahu. As we rented a car to run around the island, which we consider the best option, the temple is easily accessible and surely leave a mark on your hawaiian experience. Feed the fish, ring the bell, admire the view and light incense to the Buddha and your day will be lighter.

On the Kahekili Hwy (83) on North Oahu is an unlikely attraction. In the back of the Valley of Temples, which is a cemetery, is a replica of the 950 year-old temple in Uji, Japan. This replica was built in the 1960’s to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Japanese immigrant workers arriving in Hawaii.

The temple and grounds are like taking a mini-trip to Japan. The background of the Ko’olau mountain range and the large pond filled with koi and swans lull you into serenity. The temple is still used by worshipers, and the custom is to ring the large bell before entering.

There is a $3 entry fee with is collected before you enter the grounds. At the entry to the cemetery, just let them know you are going to the Byodo-In.

Insiders tip: Across the street from the entrance to the Valley of the Temples is Ninja Sushi, we had very good and reasonably priced sushi there. It’s just a strip mall restaurant, but the food was great.

I've lived in Oahu for over a year and would have never guessed this beautiful temple was located in the back of a cemetary. It backs up to the mountain and is in a beautiful setting with a really large coy pond.

So glad we read the reviews otherwise we might have overlooked this little gem. Loved the beauty, the temple, the setting, and the ponds with the huge koi. Took only 1 hour to view including seeing the temple, giftshop, and feeding the fish.