Byodoin

Uji,situated between Kyoto and Nara is the location of the famous "Byodoin"temples,which appear
s on the 10yen coin and a registered world heritage site.Built in the 11th century it's original colorful decorations have faded but it was built in the 11th century by the Fujiwara's to show off their wealth and power,so at that time it was richly decorated with gorgeous paint and gilding topped by 2 bronze phoenix which were believed world attract more wealth.

Nowadays,Byodoin has lost some of it's lavish splendour,the colors having faded over the years,but the phoenix remain and it retains it's ancient atmosphere.

The surrounding gardens are in the traditional Japanese style,rich in natural themes.There is a big pond,rock,gravel and shaped pine trees but the most famous garden exhibit is huge wisteria covered trellis way which was in full bloom when I went there last week.