About Horyuji(Temple)

Located in Ikaruga-cho, Ikoma-gun, Nara Prefecture, Horyu-ji Temple is Japan's oldest Buddhist temple with a group of wooden buildings, and was reportedly founded in the Asuka Period. It is believed that Prince Shotoku was involved in its construction, and it is registered as a World Heritage site. Horyu-ji Temple is divided into two areas, the To-in and Sei-in Temples, and is known as the location of many important cultural properties and national treasures.

The most distinctive features of Horyu-ji are Kondo and the five-story pagoda, the oldest surviving wooden structures in the world. Kondo houses a group of Buddhist statues from the Asuka period (710-794), of which the three images of Shakyamuni are particularly famous. The statues are highly regarded as masterpieces of early Japanese Buddhist art. The five-story pagoda also attracts many tourists with its graceful appearance.

Horyu-ji is also home to many valuable cultural assets. There are many Buddhist statues and sculptures of great historical value, such as the Kongorikishi statue at the central gate and the Salvation Avalokitesvara statue enshrined in the Yume-den. These cultural assets tell the story of the development of Buddhist art in Japan and its transition.

When visiting Horyu-ji, the To-in Temple Complex is not to be missed. Here, there is the Octagonal Endo (Dream Hall), a hall dedicated to the spirit of Prince Shotoku. The temple is especially popular during special openings held in spring and fall, when the Salvation Kannon statue, which is normally closed to the public, can be seen, attracting many Buddhist believers and history buffs.

Furthermore, Horyu-ji Temple has a beautiful garden within its vast grounds, where visitors can enjoy the beauty of nature in each of the four seasons. Cherry blossoms in the spring and autumn leaves in the fall provide visitors with a relaxing atmosphere.

Horyu-ji Temple is an attractive tourist destination for its historical value, beautiful architecture, and abundant cultural assets. Visitors will be deeply moved and respectful as they experience firsthand the legacy of Japan's Buddhist culture from ancient to medieval times. When visiting Nara, be sure to visit Horyu-ji Temple and appreciate the depth of its history and culture.