When visiting Uji, Kyoto, you definitely can’t miss the famous Byodoin Temple! The most impressive part is Phoenix Hall. Not only is the building elegant, but it’s also the design on the back of the Japanese JPY 10 coin. Seeing the coin I usually hold in my hand become a real-life view right in front of me was really interesting.
Standing in front of the pond and looking at Phoenix Hall, with its reflection on the water, the whole scene had the feel of classical Japanese architecture. If you look closely, you can also see the phoenix ornaments on the roof. Comparing them with the design on the coin really gives you that feeling of, “So this is the place!”
It wasn’t until I actually walked around Byodoin Temple this time that I realized the design on the JPY 10 coin is only a small part of it. It looks even more magnificent in person.
