Konnnggg. 

The log swung back from the bronze bell, into my hands, and I pushed it forward again to send another echo up to the mountains. The sound of the bell brings good fortune and blessings, so visitors are encouraged to ring it before entering the Byodo-in Buddhist temple.

Japan has a long, storied, and sometimes complicated presence in Hawaii, and arguably the crowning jewel of this presence is Byodo-In, nestled in the Valley of the Temples Memorial Park. The temple is a non-denominational replica of a centuries-old temple in Uji, Japan, and welcomes all people to visit and feel peace. The quiet temple valley houses bamboo groves, swans, native birds (who love to be fed; there are vending machines for their food), koi ponds, and gardens. On ordinary days the temple offers respite from the bustle of the busiest island, but on festival days the grounds spring to life with lanterns, floating lotus flowers, and cultural demonstrations such as Edo-period music and martial arts. The temple always gives education and rest, but those who plan ahead may also find some fun. Byodo-In’s website includes a calendar of upcoming events: https://byodo-in.com/. Culture enthusiasts will enjoy the gift shop, which sells artwork, stoneware teapots, and home goods such as chopsticks.

I always recommend a visit if possible to do so. Oahu is crowded and it can be harder to enjoy the natural surroundings compared to other islands. Tourists staying in the chaos that is Waikiki could especially use the respite, so if there is any way to block out a couple of hours for the Valley of the Temples park, you should. As an added bonus, if you post a photo of the temple on social media you’re going to get a lot of people asking when you went to Japan. How long you keep the joke going is up to you!