Hōryū-ji, also known as the Temple of the Flourishing Dharma, is a Buddhist temple located in Ikaruga, Nara Prefecture, Japan1. Founded in 607 by Prince Shotoku, who is credited with the early promotion of Buddhism in Japan, Hōryū-ji is one of the country’s oldest temples and contains the world’s oldest surviving wooden structures. It was designated a world heritage site in 1993.
The temple grounds are spacious and separated into two main precincts, the Western Precinct (Saiin Garan) and the Eastern Precinct (Toin Garan). The Western Precinct is home to the world’s oldest surviving wooden structures: the central gate (Chumon), the main hall (Kondo) and a five-story pagoda. The central gate is guarded by Japan’s two oldest statues of Kongo Rikishi, the pair of muscular deities often seen flanking large temple gates. The main hall houses some of Japan’s oldest statues of Buddha, rare creations surviving from the Asuka Period.
The Eastern Precinct is centered around the octagonally-shaped Yumedono (Hall of Visions), which is dedicated to Prince Shotoku and houses a life-sized statue of the prince surrounded by statues of Buddha and various monks. Between the two precincts stands the Gallery of Temple Treasures, which exhibits a part of the temple’s huge art collection.
Hōryū-ji is a unique storehouse of world Buddhist culture and boasts an illustrious 14 centuries of continuous observance of tradition since established by Prince Shōtoku. It contains over 2,300 important cultural and historical structures and articles, including nearly 190 that have been designated as National Treasures or Important Cultural Properties.
Visiting Hōryū-ji is a must for anyone interested in Japanese history and culture. The temple’s ancient wooden structures, beautiful statues, and rich history make it a truly unforgettable experience.
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Visited places in this video
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[1st Place]
Fujinoki Tumulus, Nationally Designated Historic Site / 藤ノ木古墳
– Location – https://goo.gl/maps/wv7unNaDnDUtYbK97
– WebSite – https://www.town.ikaruga.nara.jp/0000000045.html
[2nd Place]
Horyuji Temple / 法隆寺
– Location – https://goo.gl/maps/NarZhsySikVZaF918
– WebSite – http://www.horyuji.or.jp/
[3rd Place]
Hoki-ji / 法起寺
– Location – https://goo.gl/maps/YuAanUpytKdMu6uV7
– WebSite – http://www.horyuji.or.jp/hokiji/
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