Temple · Ikaruga

Horyu-ji Temple 法隆寺

Temple founded by Prince Shotoku in 607 whose Western Precinct contains the world's oldest surviving wooden buildings; Japan's first UNESCO World Heritage site (1993).

Hours8:00-17:00 (until 16:30 early Nov-late Feb)

PriceAdult: ¥2,000

Getting thereJR Horyuji Station, 20 min walk or bus to Horyuji-sando

Time needed2-3 hours

Best timeWeekday mornings; spring and autumn

Address1-1 Horyuji Sannai, Ikaruga-cho, Ikoma-gun, Nara 636-0115

Websitehoryuji.or.jp

About

Horyu-ji in Ikaruga is one of Japan's oldest temples and preserves Asuka-period halls, including the Kondo main hall, five-storied pagoda and central gate. The Eastern Precinct centres on the octagonal Yumedono hall, and the Great Treasure Hall displays Buddhist art. It is about 30 minutes by train from Nara and makes a good half-day trip together with neighbouring Chugu-ji.

Highlights

Kondo and five-storied pagoda, among the oldest wooden structures in the world
Central gate guarded by Japan's oldest Nio statues
Octagonal Yumedono Hall in the Eastern Precinct
Daihozoin treasure hall with the Kudara Kannon

Tips

Allow 2 hours; the grounds are large
Bus from JR Horyuji Station saves a 20 min walk
Combine with Chugu-ji next to the Eastern Precinct (discount ticket available there)

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Horyu-ji Temple 法隆寺

About

Highlights

Tips

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