When I was in Hawaii some years ago I really wanted to go see the replica of this temple there, but never got a chance. So I went to see the real thing instead. It is kind of inconvenient, being located about 30 minutes outside Kyoto in Uji. The grounds were somewhat less extensive than I had imagined, being pretty much just the Phoenix Hall. Still picturesque, though, and it looks just like the back of the 10 yen coin.

Uji is also known for its green tea, so if you are into Japanese green tea, you can pick up some here. Uji is also known for its connections to the famous early Japanese serial novel The Tale of Genji.