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Horyu-ji

奈良県

4.5

Tourist Information of This Area

general.prefecture.

Seido Taishi and Empress Suiko founded a Buddhist facility.

As one of the Buddhist buildings in the Horyu-ji area, which boasts many national treasures and important cultural properties, it has been registered as a World Cultural Heritage Site. It is said to be the world's oldest wooden structure. Why does it last so long with wood!? Please visit and feel the power of Horyu-ji.

Features & How to Enjoy

Classic History

Highlights

Point 1

The Majestic Five-Story Pagoda

The five-story pagoda at Horyuji Temple is approximately 32 meters tall and has a very powerful presence. Additionally, the beautiful carvings and decorations on the pagoda are noteworthy. Elaborate carvings depicting Buddhist teachings and mythological stories adorn the walls of the tower. Stepping inside the pagoda, one is enveloped in a serene and sacred atmosphere. Visitors can also see sculptures depicting the scene of Buddha's death. It's possible to feel a sense of inner peace while experiencing the faith of Buddhism.

Point 2

Convenient Access! Visit Horyuji Temple by Bus from Nara City

The nearest station to Horyuji Temple is Horyuji Station on the Yamato Line, which connects Kamo Station and Namba Station on the JR line. The temple grounds are about 1.5 kilometers away from Horyuji Station, and it takes about 20-30 minutes on foot, so it's recommended to use the bus to save time! The bus runs approximately every 20 minutes from 9am to around 4pm, and the fare is 190 yen. The bus stop is located just outside the "South Exit" of Horyuji Station, at bus stop number 2.

Point 3

Collect Temple Stamps with a Goshuincho! Goshuin at Horyu-ji Temple

Horyu-ji Temple is a recommended spot for those who collect goshuin stamps! As a temple with a connection to Prince Shotoku and famous as an Asuka period temple, many people visit Horyu-ji Temple to obtain its goshuin stamps. Goshuin stamps can be obtained by bringing a goshuincho (a notebook for collecting goshuin stamps) to the goshuin office in front of the main gate. Additionally, goshuincho can be purchased at souvenir shops around Horyu-ji Temple, so even those who haven't collected goshuin stamps before can start with a visit to Horyu-ji Temple.

Point 4

Check out Delicious Local Cuisine around Horyuji Temple

When visiting Horyuji Temple, be sure to stop by the nearby shops and enjoy Nara's local cuisine. In the vicinity of Horyuji Temple, there are shops selling Ikaruga's specialty "Tatsuta Age" and "Kakinoha Sushi". Especially at the traditional Nara confectionery shop "Nara Shouka", be sure to try the classic "Rahoutou" and the "Yamato Shibeshi" decorated with Tenpyo patterns. These sweets are perfect as souvenirs.

Point 5

The Majestic Atmosphere of the "Horyuji Temple Golden Hall"

Horyuji Temple has multiple historic buildings, but the most noteworthy is the "Horyuji Temple Golden Hall." Upon entering the hall, you will find numerous Buddha statues enshrined there. The Shaka Sanzon seated in the center is particularly impressive, with its elegant expression and posture. On either side, the Manjusri Bodhisattva and Samantabhadra Bodhisattva statues, which exude the elegance of the Asuka period, are seated, creating a majestic atmosphere throughout the entire hall.

History

The Temple with an Overwhelmingly Long History, Horyuji

Horyuji is an ancient temple known as a symbol of Japanese Buddhism, founded during the Asuka period of the Nara era, and was rebuilt during the Tenpyo era after being engulfed by fire. It is registered as a World Heritage Site, and the vast grounds are home to buildings adorned with intricate carvings and beautiful decorations. Among them, the most famous is the Horyuji Kondo, which is hailed as Japan's oldest wooden building. Sacred Buddhist statues such as the Shaka Sanzon sitting statue are enshrined there, and its magnificent appearance still attracts tourists from all over the world! Horyuji is an important presence as the source of Japan's Buddhist culture, and captivates visitors with the charm of ancient times.

Basic Information

	Address	1-1-1 Horyuji Sannai, Ikaruga-cho, Ikoma-gun, Nara 636-0115
	Business Hours	The Buddhist facility was founded by Prince Shotoku and Empress Suiko.
	TEL	0745-75-2555
	Web Site	http://www.horyuji.or.jp/

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