Shakyamuni and two attendants of Golden Hall, Hōryū-ji

Shakyamuni and two attendants form the central group in the Golden Hall, with the bronze Buddha figure seated in the middle and measuring 87.5 centimeters (34 inches) tall. The three gold-plated sculptures stand together as a traditional Buddhist arrangement, with the attendants positioned on either side of the central figure.

Master sculptor Tori Busshi completed this group in 623 under the commission of imperial sponsors during the Asuka period. The work followed the introduction of Buddhism to Japan and helped establish religious sculpture traditions in the country.

These figures show characteristics of early continental Buddhist art with stylized facial features and symmetrical arrangement. Visitors can see traces of centuries of worship on the sculptures, which still serve as religious objects in the temple today.

Visitors can view the group through the open front sides of the Golden Hall but should expect dim lighting to protect the ancient bronzes. Photography inside is typically not permitted, but exterior views are possible from the temple courtyard.

An inscription on the back of the halo contains 14 Chinese characters in 14 lines, documenting the creation date and circumstances. This record is one of the oldest surviving written sources on early Buddhist art in Japan.

Location: Ikaruga

Inception: 623

Creator: Tori Busshi

Address: 奈良県生駒郡斑鳩町法隆寺山内1-1

Website: http://horyuji.or.jp/en/garan/kondo/detail/#kondodetail01

GPS coordinates: 34.61470,135.73430

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:23