Byōdo-in Temple

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Hoshokan Museum: A Modern Reinterpretation of the Treasures Inside the Phoenix Hall
A visit to the Byodoin Gardens is a must-do without a visit to the Hoshokan Museum, located within the grounds. While access to the Phoenix Hall itself is restricted or strictly controlled for the preservation of the building, the Hoshokan displays, using cutting-edge technology, the National Treasures originally housed within the building.
Particularly noteworthy are the original 52 Cloud Offering Bodhisattva Statues (雲中供養菩薩像) that once adorned the ceiling of the Phoenix Hall, as well as the bronze Phoenix statues atop the roof. These Bodhisattvas are depicted as riding on clouds, playing music, and guiding visitors to paradise, recreating the celestial atmosphere within the Phoenix Hall. While safeguarding these treasures, the Hoshokan serves as an important educational space, enabling visitors to deeply understand and appreciate the splendid and idealistic Pure Land world of the time when the Phoenix Hall was founded, in a modern setting.

Post by WandererRamzi | Oct 18, 2025