The chiseled Ko'olau mountains, trying to look rugged but failing because of the luxuriant carpet of multi-textured greenery that clings to the steep slopes, form a stunning backdrop for the Valley of the Temples Memorial Park. Located near Kaneohe, the park is dominated by a majestic Byodo-In Temple. The temple is a replica of the magnificent 900-year-old Byodo-In Temple of Equality in Japan. The original stands in Uji on the outskirts of Kyoto.
The Oahu replica was built in 1968 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the arrival of the first Japanese immigrant to Hawaii. The temple is graced by two acres of ponds stocked with several hundred Japanese carp, brightly feathered peacocks, black swans and other wildlife. An 18-foot meditation Buddha stands above the quiet scene. And a 3-ton temple bell threatens to dispel the stillness, for good luck comes to those who are able to ring it.
