Travel Back 1,400 Years! Discover the Oldest Wooden Architecture at Horyu-ji Temple

As Japan's first UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site, Horyu-ji Temple, located in Ikaruga, Nara, boasts the world's oldest surviving wooden structures. Bearing witness to over 1,300 years of history since the Asuka period, it is often referred to as the "Gateway to Time."

🕊 The Origin of the Temple｜A Fulfilled Wish
Horyu-ji was built in 607 by Prince Shotoku to honor his father, Emperor Yomei's, unfulfilled wish. Although it was destroyed by lightning in 670, the reconstructed buildings have preserved the Asuka period's architectural style. In 1993, Horyu-ji became Japan's first UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site.

🌟 Must-See Highlights of Horyu-ji
🏯 1｜The Asuka Gate That Stands the Test of Time—Chumon (Central Gate)
The first sight upon entering Horyu-ji is the "Chumon," a prime example of Asuka period architecture. Flanked by Japan's oldest Nio guardian statues, this gate has weathered a millennium and remains majestic, making it a perfect photo spot!

🛕 2｜The World's Oldest Wooden Buddha Hall—Kondo (Main Hall)
The "Kondo," which enshrines the Shaka Triad Buddha statues, is considered one of the world's oldest wooden structures. The statues, preserved since 623, are the soul of Horyu-ji and the core of its spiritual faith.

🗼 3｜Japan's Oldest Pagoda—Five-Story Pagoda
Standing 32 meters tall, the Five-Story Pagoda is Japan's oldest wooden pagoda. Its earthquake-resistant design is a testament to ancient craftsmanship. Inside, you'll find a rare collection of statues inspired by the Buddhist scripture "Vimalakirti Sutra."

🪔 4｜The Rebuilt Lecture Hall—Daikodo
The Daikodo, a place for monks to study, houses the Yakushi Triad statues. Although it was once destroyed by fire, the current reconstruction remains grand and solemn, offering a great vantage point to view the temple's layout.

🏺 5｜A Treasure Trove of Buddhist Art—The Great Treasure Hall
Built in 1998, this treasure hall was designed to preserve numerous national treasures. From the Baekje Kannon to the Tamamushi Shrine and the Nine-Faced Kannon, each exhibit tells the story of Japan's Buddhist art heritage.

🛕 6｜The Octagonal Hall of Prince Shotoku's Faith—Yumedono
Located on the site of Prince Shotoku's former residence, Yumedono enshrines a life-sized statue of the prince, radiating golden light and exuding mystery and solemnity. Its octagonal design makes it a standout feature and the centerpiece of the Eastern Precinct.

🚌 How to Get There｜Traveling to Ikaruga
Getting there from Osaka is convenient. Take the JR Yamatoji Line → Alight at Horyu-ji Station, then choose:
A 20-minute walk or take the "Horyu-ji Sando" bus (⚠️ Limited bus services! Walking offers more flexibility).
Address: Ikaruga, Ikoma District, Nara Prefecture
⏰ Opening Hours: Spring/Summer 8:00-17:00｜Winter 8:00-16:30
🎫 Admission: Adults ¥2,000 (A priceless ticket to a thousand-year-old treasure!)

❤️ Final Thoughts
If you're looking for a journey that truly "transcends time," Horyu-ji is a must-visit. Here, you can almost hear the whispers of ancient wood and feel the original warmth of Japanese Buddhist culture.