Planning Your Visit
A Complete Guide to Visiting Oahu's Sacred Sanctuary
Written by a Local Expert
Jade KawanuiFinding Your Way to Paradise
The Byodo-In Temple is located at 47-200 Kahekili Highway, Kaneohe, HI 96744, on the Windward side of Oahu. It sits within the Valley of the Temples Memorial Park.
From Waikiki/Honolulu
The most common routes involve taking either the Likelike Highway (HI-63 N) or the Pali Highway (HI-61 N) eastbound through the Ko'olau Mountains. Both routes offer stunning scenic views. Once through the mountains, connect to Kahekili Highway (HI-83). The entrance to the Valley of the Temples Memorial Park will be on your left if heading north on Kahekili Highway.
The drive itself, particularly through the lush H-3 freeway or the historic Pali, can feel like an adventure, with tropical greenery cascading down steep mountainsides.
Parking
Plenty of parking is available on-site. Upon entering the Valley of the Temples Memorial Park, follow the signs for the Byodo-In Temple. It's a short drive past the main cemetery areas to reach the temple's dedicated parking lot. Some visitors initially feel they've made a wrong turn due to driving through the memorial park, but this is the correct route.
When to Visit: Hours and Best Times
Temple Grounds & Gift Shop Hours: The Byodo-In Temple grounds and gift shop are open daily from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. The last entrance to the temple grounds is at 4:15 pm.
Holiday Hours: The temple has special holiday hours. It's typically CLOSED on Thanksgiving Day. For Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve, hours are often reduced (9:00 am – 4:00 pm), and it's CLOSED on Christmas Day. New Year's Day may have later opening hours (10:00 am – 4:00 pm). Always check the official website for the most current holiday schedule.
⏰ Best Time to Arrive
Arrive by 3:30 pm to have plenty of time to enjoy the entire experience before closing.
🌅 Peaceful Hours
Early morning visits and weekdays offer quieter experiences with smaller crowds.
Recommended Visit Duration
The temple administration recommends a minimum of 30 minutes to one hour to enjoy the entire experience. However, to truly soak in the peace, explore the gardens, observe the wildlife, and perhaps spend some time in quiet reflection at the Meditation Pavilion, you might easily wish to linger longer.
For those keen on photography or simply wishing to escape the everyday hustle, allowing 1.5 to 2 hours would provide a more unhurried and fulfilling visit.
📍 Essential Info
- Address: 47-200 Kahekili Hwy, Kaneohe, HI 96744
- Hours: 8:30am-4:30pm
- Last Entry: 4:15pm
- Parking: Free on-site
💳 Admission Fees
- General (13-64): $7.00
- Senior (65+): $6.00
- Child (2-12): $4.00
- Kama'āina Adult: $4.00
- Under 2: Free
*Cash not accepted. Credit/debit cards only.
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Admission: Fees and Tickets
A small admission fee is charged to visit the Byodo-In Temple grounds, which helps with the upkeep and maintenance of this privately owned landmark.
Payment Methods: The temple accepts credit cards, debit cards, and other contactless payment for admission. Cash is not accepted.
Online Tickets: Individual and group tickets can be purchased online in advance at https://tickets.byodo-in.com/. Tickets purchased online don't need to be used on the specific day of purchase and don't expire. Tickets can also be purchased at the admissions booth upon arrival.
Admission Fees
*Valid Hawaii Driver's License or State ID required
Temple Manners: Respecting Sacred Ground
The Byodo-In Temple is a place of prayer, meditation, and remembrance. Visitors are asked to behave with respect, as they would in any place of worship, to preserve its sacred and calm atmosphere.
👗 Dress Code
Dress appropriately. Beach attire is not suitable. If wearing swimwear, please cover up before entering the temple grounds.
🤫 Behavior
Maintain a quiet manner. Avoid running, yelling, or disturbing the wildlife. Keep conversations at a low volume.
Important Guidelines
- Removing Shoes: Required before entering the main temple building (Phoenix Hall). Shelves are provided at the entrance.
- Photography: Personal photography is welcomed. Permits required for planned photo shoots, weddings, or commercial use. Drones not allowed.
- Fish Food: Only purchase koi food from the gift shop to prevent overfeeding and maintain fish health.
- Pets: Only service animals meeting ADA requirements are allowed. Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) are not permitted.
Photography Tips for Perfect Shots
As a photographer, I'm always looking for that perfect angle, that unique perspective. At Byodo-In, beauty is truly everywhere, just waiting to be captured! Here are a few of my favorite spots and tips:
The Classic Bridge Shot
The gracefully arched bridge leading to the temple entrance is a classic. Frame the temple perfectly through its railings.
Frontal Beauty
Stand directly in front of the Phoenix Hall to capture its balanced beauty against the Ko'olau mountains.
Reflections
The pond is your best friend! On a calm day, the reflections of the temple are stunning. Get low to the water level.
Wildlife Portraits
Be patient and ready to capture the peacocks displaying their trains, the black swans gliding, or the colorful koi.
Lighting is Key
Early morning light can be soft and magical. Late afternoon light offers a warm glow. Avoid harsh midday sun.
Respectful Clicks
Remember, it's a sacred space. Be discreet and avoid intrusive photography, especially if people are meditating.
Amenities for Comfort
🛍️ Gift Shop
Tea House Gift Shop offers souvenirs, omikuji (fortunes), omamori (charms), and koi food.
🚻 Restrooms
Restroom facilities are available for visitors on the temple grounds.
ℹ️ Information
Informational signs throughout the grounds allow for a complete self-guided experience.