🕊️ Byōdō-in Summer Survival Guide

#summervacay
*"Where the Phoenix Hall shimmers over lotus ponds"*

#### **🌞 Why Visit in Summer?**
✅ **Lotus blooms** (peak July-Aug) in the reflection pond
✅ **Early morning coolness** with mist rising over the Aji River
✅ **10¥ coin come to life** - see Japan’s most famous temple replica
✅ **Nearby Uji cools** with river breezes and matcha treats

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### **🗓️ Half-Day Itinerary (Beat the Heat Edition)**

#### **🌅 7:30 AM - Early Magic**
- Arrive at opening (8:30 AM, ¥600 entry)
- **Phoenix Hall First View** - Morning light on the golden phoenix
- **Lotus Pond Walk** - Dewdrops on summer blooms

#### **🍃 9:00 AM - Cultural Cool-Down**
- **Hoshokan Museum** (AC!) - See the original phoenix statues
- **Jōdo-shū Garden** - Meditate in shaded stone gardens

#### **🍵 10:30 AM - Uji Matcha Break**
- **Tsuen Tea** (oldest teahouse in Japan, since 1160)
- Try *kakigōri* with matcha syrup
- Buy summer-limited *cold brew matcha* bottles

#### **🌊 12:00 PM - Riverfront Lunch**
- **Nakamura Tokichi Honten** - Matcha soba noodles by the river

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### **📌 Summer Pro Tips**
- **Golden Hour**: Return at 4 PM for softer light and fewer crowds
- **Hydration**: Refill at temple’s *kōsui* (holy water station)
- **Dress Code**: Light linen works best (humid but modest)
- **Hidden Spot**: **Fujimidera viewpoint** across the river

**"The Phoenix Hall’s reflection creates a mandala in summer - stand at the pond’s northwest corner for the perfect shot."**