Horyu-ji (Horyu-ji Temple)
ほうりゅうじ
The world's oldest group of wooden structures, associated with Prince Shotoku. It was Japan's first World Heritage site.
Overview
Founded by Empress Suiko and Prince Shotoku, it serves as the head temple of the Shotoku-shu sect. It was registered as a World Heritage site in 1993 as the 'Buddhist Monuments in the Horyu-ji Area.' The Kondo (Golden Hall) and Goju-no-to (Five-Story Pagoda) of the Saiin Garan (Western Precinct) are the world's oldest surviving wooden structures (late 7th to early 8th century). The Yumed<audio|> (Dream Hall) in the Toin Garan (Eastern Precinct) is an octagonal circular hall housing the hidden deity, the Kyuse Kannon statue (said to be a life-sized statue of Prince Shotoku). The site contains numerous masterpieces from the Asuka and Hakuhou periods, such as the Baekje Kannon and Tamamushi Zushi.
Enshrined deity / legend
Shaka Nyorai (Shaka Sanzon statue as the main deity of the Kondo)
Highlights
- ・World's oldest group of wooden structures (Kondo and Goju-no-to)
- ・Yumedden and the hidden deity Kyuse Kannon statue
- ・Baekje Kannon (the pinnacle of Asuka period Buddhist art)
- ・Japan's first World Heritage site
Details may change. Please check official sources before visiting.