Horyu-ji

Horyu-ji is considered to be founded by Shotoku-taishi, a member of an imperial family who adopted and instilled the Buddhist culture in Japan. There are as many as 19 buildings registered as national treasures in its premises. Horyu-ji is the oldest wooden building in Japan and is the first building in Japan which was registered as a World Cultural Heritage Site in 1993. All the buildings and statues inside are valuable treasures. Horyu-ji is one of the most precious temples in Japan that people have protected for more than 1,440 years.

(Source: wikipedia)

Main Hall

Kondo, or the main hall, is located in the center of the premises and considered to be the most important facility since it has the most valuable statue, Honzon, the principal image of Buddha. This main hall itself is the oldest wooden building in Japan. Experience history as you observe the structural genius of the main hall.

(Source: wikipedia)

Five-storied Pagoda

It is believed that there are 11 five-storied pagodas in all of Japan. The five-storied pagoda in Horyu-ji is the oldest of them all. Each floor reduces in size as you go upward. The top roof is half the size of the bottom one. It is almost unbelievable that this was built so long ago in the past considering its sophisticated design.

(Source: longbridgeの徒然ブログ)

Yumeden

Yumeden can be found on the eastern side of the temple grounds and is dedicated to Shotoku-taishi. He and his family are believed to have lived here. Visit this ancient and honorable building associated to the great man who founded Horyu-ji.

(Source: kazukiatuko / PIXTA(ピクスタ))

Address

Horyuji Sannai, Ikaruga, Ikoma-gun, Nara

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Contact No.

+81-745-75-2555

Access

20-min walk from JR Horyu-ji Station. From Horyu-ji station, take a Nara-kotsu bus bound for Horyu-ji monzen. Ride for about 5 minutes and get off at Horyu-ji monzen bus stop.