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What to Expect in the Valley of the Temples
Nestled in the lush Koʻolau Mountains, the Valley of the Temples Memorial Park is a serene and sacred place that offers comfort, reflection, and a deep connection to the past. Inspired by ancient Asian traditions, this extraordinary memorial park is where visitors pay tribute to their loved ones while surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. Step into a world of peace and tranquility, and let yourself be captivated by its unique atmosphere.
The Valley of the Temples was established in 1963 by Paul Trousdale. A large portion of the park serves as a cemetery, but what makes it remarkable is that it welcomes people of all faiths. Impressive statues of the Virgin Mary and the Passion of Christ represent Christianity. You’ll also find striking crypts and mausoleums, as well as Shinto and Protestant influences.
The most famous and impressive structure here is the Byodo-In Temple, built in 1968 to honor Hawaii’s first Japanese immigrants. It is a replica of the more than 950-year-old Byodo-In Temple in Uji, Japan. Not a single nail was used in its construction. If you are seeking peace and stillness, you will find it here – a place both fascinating and deeply calming.
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The Valley of the Temples in Action
Location on the Map
Oahu Highlights Tour with Valley of the Temples
Our Honest Review & Rating
At first, visiting a cemetery may seem a bit unusual. Yet this site is deeply meaningful and offers insight into the history of the island and its people. If you are searching for quiet reflection, you will love this valley. As an active burial site, the atmosphere is deeply peaceful.
Your visit is largely weather-independent, since most of the park can be explored by car. You only need to step outside if you choose, for example, to visit the Byodo-In Temple. The entire site is stroller- and wheelchair-friendly.
Weather Independent
Spontaneous Booking
For all Fitness Levels
Accessibility
Tour Options, Duration & Cost
Organized Tour
Duration: You have a huge choice of fantastic day tours, whose duration can range from 4 to 10 hours – depending on how you like it.
Cost: The best-combined tours start from 5 hours and start at around 125 dollars.
Discover Valley of the Temples on an Oahu Day Tour
Self-Organized Tour
Duration: Most visitors spend around 2 to 3 hours here as they are fascinated by the peaceful surroundings. If you want to visit the valley and the temple at your leisure, plan on around 1.5 hours. Valley of the Temples Memorial Park is open around the clock, and Byodo-In Temple is open daily from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm; the last admission is at 4:15 pm.
Cost: There is no entrance fee to Valley of the Temples Memorial Park. To visit Byodo-In Temple, you must pay 7 dollars for adults and 4 dollars for children.
Is the Valley of the Temples Memorial Park Worth It?
For us, it was a definite yes, but primarily as the setting for the incredible Byodo-In Temple. While the entire valley is peaceful and beautiful, the temple is the undeniable star of the show.
Here’s our take on who will enjoy the Valley of the Temples:
- Anyone Visiting the Byodo-In Temple: You have to drive through the Valley of the Temples to get to the temple itself. We recommend taking a slow drive through the park before or after your temple visit to appreciate the stunning mountain backdrop and serene atmosphere.
- Those Seeking a Quiet, Reflective Drive: The park is incredibly peaceful. Driving through the beautifully maintained grounds with the majestic Koʻolau Mountains towering above is a very calming experience, far from the crowds of Honolulu.
On the other hand, it might not be a top priority if:
- You're not planning to visit the Byodo-In Temple. While the park is beautiful, without the temple as a destination, it's essentially a very scenic cemetery. As a tourist attraction on its own, it might not be compelling enough to warrant a special trip.
- You're short on time. If your itinerary is packed, your time is better spent focusing on the Byodo-In Temple itself, which is the main reason most visitors come to this valley.
Our Final Word:
Consider the Valley of the Temples as the beautiful frame for the masterpiece that is the Byodo-In Temple. Absolutely make the trip to see the temple, and take a few extra minutes to appreciate the serene beauty of the valley that surrounds it.
Where to Stay Near the Valley of the Temples? - Book Your Accommodation in Oahu
How to Get to the Valley of the Temples
With an Organized Tour
A tour is perfect because you don't have to worry about anything organizational and can fully concentrate on the day. You can ask any of your questions directly and have an experienced guide who will gladly answer everything.
On Your Own (Self-Organized)
Arrive comfortably by car, drive at your own pace through the valley and stop wherever you like. You can also get to the valley by The Bus from Waikiki (line 55/65), but it takes about an hour each way.
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What to Pack & Prepare
- Money
- Sunscreen
- Camera
- Sun Hat / Cap Women/Men
- Water
- Mosquito Repellent
Valley of the Temples Memorial Park: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I have to pay to enter the Valley of the Temples?
Entering the Valley of the Temples Memorial Park itself is free of charge. You can drive through the beautiful, sprawling grounds and see the various statues and crypts at your own pace.
However, the park's main attraction, the stunning Byodo-In Temple, does have a small, separate admission fee (usually $7 for adults). You'll pay this directly at the temple entrance, and it's highly recommended to have cash on hand.
Is it strange to visit a cemetery as a tourist?
Not at all, especially a place like this! While it is an active memorial park where people come to pay respects, it was designed to be a place of beauty, peace, and reflection for everyone. Its breathtaking location at the foot of the Koʻolau Mountains, combined with its unique, multi-faith art and architecture, makes it feel more like a serene sculpture garden than a traditional cemetery. Visitors are very welcome, as long as they are respectful of the sacred grounds.
What's the difference between the Valley of the Temples and the Byodo-In Temple?
It's easy to get them confused! The Valley of the Temples is the name of the entire memorial park. The Byodo-In Temple is the most famous and spectacular landmark located inside the Valley of the Temples. So, when you visit the park, you can also choose to pay the separate entrance fee to explore the beautiful Japanese temple, ring its sacred bell, and feed the koi fish in the pond.
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