1. Travel

Discuss in my forum

Byodo-In Temple in the Valley of the Temples, Oahu, Hawaii

By , About.com Guide

9 of 11

Amida or Lotus Buddha
Lotus Buddha, Amida Buddha, Byodo-In Temple, Kahaluu, Oahu, Hawaii

Lotus Buddha, Byodo-In Temple, Kahaluu, Oahu, Hawaii

Photo by John Fischer, licensed to About.com

The highlight of the temple is the nine-foot Amida or "Lotus" Buddha so named because he sits upon a lotus flower.

This is the largest wooden Buddha carved in over 900 years. It is stained in a black lacquer and decorated in gold leaf.

Around the Buddha are 52 smaller sculptures depicting Boddhisattvas (enlightened beings) floating on clouds, dancing, and playing musical instruments.

©2012 About.com. All rights reserved.

A part of The New York Times Company.