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Horyu-ji

📕 Goshuin from visitors

Horyu-ji

日本、〒636-0115 奈良県生駒郡斑鳩町法隆寺山内1−1−1

4.5(7520)

A temple associated with Prince Shotoku, featuring the Saiin Garan (West Courtyard) complex, which includes the world's oldest surviving wooden architectural structures, and the Toin Garan (East Courtyard) complex centered around the Yumedono (Dream Hall).

History

Prince Shotoku vowed to construct a statue of the Medicine Buddha (Yakushi Butsu), and the temple was completed in 607 CE (Suiko 15). It burned down in 668 CE (Tenji 9) but was rebuilt by imperial decree in 701 CE (Wado 1). As the head temple of the Shotoku-shu sect, it is a Buddhist facility that preserves the appearance of ancient temples to the present day.

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What visitors say

The vast temple grounds are dotted with historic structures, including the Five-Story Pagoda and the Golden Hall (Kondo), which are considered the world's oldest wooden buildings. A quiet and solemn atmosphere pervades the site, providing a calm environment for worship. The Treasure House exhibits rare Buddhist statues and cultural properties, allowing visitors to leisurely appreciate the weight of history.

Opening hours

  • Monday: 8:00 – 16:30
  • Tuesday: 8:00 – 16:30
  • Wednesday: 8:00 – 16:30
  • Thursday: 8:00 – 16:30
  • Friday: 8:00 – 16:30
  • Saturday: 8:00 – 16:30
  • Sunday: 8:00 – 16:30

Annual events & festivals

  • January 1 onwardHatsumode (First Shrine Visit of the Year)

    The world's oldest wooden architectural complex. Japan's first World Heritage site.

    A complex of the world's oldest wooden buildings associated with Prince Shotoku, and the first site in Japan to be registered as a World Heritage site. It is bustling with worshippers during the New Year.

    Highlights
    • World's oldest wooden architecture
    • Japan's first World Heritage site
    • Associated with Prince Shotoku
  • March 22-24Seirei-e (Saintly Spirit Memorial Service)

    A Buddhist memorial service dedicated to the memory of Prince Shotoku, featuring dedicatory offerings of Bugaku (court music and dance).

    From March 22 to 24, a memorial service is held to honor the legacy of Prince Shotoku. A statue of the Prince is enshrined, and Bugaku performances are offered as dedicatory rites. A large-scale grand ceremony is held every other year.

    Highlights
    • Commemoration of Prince Shotoku
    • Dedicatory Bugaku performances

Dates can shift from year to year. Please check the official information before you go.

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