Michi-no-Eki "Kyoda" | Review by BobbyJenny

At Byodoin Temple in Uji, besides the famous Phoenix Hall, I also recommend stopping by the Hoshokan Museum. The museum building itself is very distinctive, making use of underground space. Once inside, the atmosphere is quiet and solemn, creating a very different feeling from the gardens outside.

The museum displays Buddhist art and cultural properties from Byodoin’s collection. What fascinated me most were the phoenix statues from the roof and the Cloud-Borne Bodhisattvas, each in a different pose. Seeing them up close, I realized how intricate the carvings are, with each figure having its own unique features.

Visiting the Hoshokan Museum also gave me a deeper understanding of Byodoin. It’s not just about taking photos of Phoenix Hall and looking around the gardens. Through the museum’s collection, you can experience the history and artistic beauty of the Heian period.

GRANDE RIVIERE Hakone rusks are a souvenir that easily catches your eye when visiting Hakone! The bread is sliced and baked until thin and crispy, with a light buttery aroma and a satisfying crunch. They’re not overly sweet and go well with coffee or black tea.

I really like how light and easy they are to carry, and the packaging also feels like a classic Hakone souvenir. They’re great for afternoon tea or as a snack when you’re craving something. Before you know it, you’ve eaten one after another and finished them all. If you’re visiting Hakone and like crispy cookies, give them a try!

At Chion-ji Temple in Kyoto, what caught my eye most was the Sanmon Gate, known as the “Golden Pavilion.” The gate has a historic appearance, and its wooden architecture exudes a strong sense of history. Standing in front of it, you can feel the solemn atmosphere unique to Kyoto temples.

The Sanmon Gate, also called the “Golden Pavilion,” is one of Chion-ji Temple’s most iconic structures. Looking closely at the roof, wooden pillars, and overall structure, you can really see the character of traditional Japanese architecture. Although I didn’t stay long, just taking photos in front of the gate and admiring the architecture made the visit feel worthwhile.