Hōryū-ji

The temple complex contains over 45 wooden buildings, including a five-story pagoda and the main Golden Hall displaying Buddhist statues and ancient murals.

Prince Shōtoku and Empress Suiko established Hōryū-ji in 607, creating what would become one of the oldest surviving wooden structures in the world.

The temple maintains a collection of Buddhist art from the Asuka period, including sculptures, textiles, paintings, and ceremonial objects from the 7th century.

Visitors can access the temple grounds daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM between March and November, with winter hours ending at 4:30 PM.

The temple houses a specific architectural element called masugata, a rectangular entrance path that makes two 90-degree turns before reaching the main gate.

Location: Ikaruga

Inception: 607

Founders: Suiko, Prince Shōtoku

Fee: Yes

Charge: 1500 JPY;750 JPY

Made from material: wood

Part of: Buddhist Monuments in the Hōryū-ji Area, Nanto Shichi Daiji, Historical Sites of Prince Shōtoku, Shinbutsu Reijō Junpai no Michi, seven great temples founded by Prince Shōtoku

Address: 奈良県生駒郡斑鳩町法隆寺山内1-1 636-0115 斑鳩町

Opening Hours: November 04-February 21 Monday-Sunday 08:00-16:30; February 22-November 03 Monday-Sunday 08:30-17:00

Phone: +81745752555

Website: http://horyuji.or.jp

GPS coordinates: 34.61444,135.73417

Latest update: May 27, 2025 20:45