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

Amida or Lotus Buddha

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.

• Brief History of the Temple
• Entrance and Wooden Bridge
• The Peace Bell
• Temple Grounds
• Meditation Pavilion
• Koi Ponds
• Koi
• Temple Building
• Amida or Lotus Buddha
• Closeup of Amida Buddha
• Getting to the Byodo-In Temple