Hōryū-ji Temple

Welcome to Hōryū-ji, a site of such monumental importance that it was the first in Japan to be designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1993. As you stand here in Nara Prefecture, you are in the presence of the world's…

We begin at the Nandaimon, or the Great South Gate. This current gate was built in 1438 during the Muromachi period, but it stands on the site of the original entrance. …

We stand now before the Goju-no-to, or Five-Story Pagoda. Standing 32.5 meters tall, it is the oldest pagoda of its kind in the world. …

Next to the pagoda is the Kondo, the Main Hall or 'Golden Hall.' This is widely considered the oldest wooden building in the world, dating back to the late 7th century. While we cannot take photographs inside, the treasures…

We move now to the Daihozoin, the Great Treasure House. This modern, high-tech museum was completed in 1998 to house the temple's 3,000 National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties. …

We enter the To-in Garan, or Eastern Precinct, where the center of attention is the Yumedono, the 'Hall of Dreams.' This perfectly octagonal building was built in 739 AD on the site where Prince Shotoku's private palace once…

Adjacent to the Eastern Precinct lies Chuguji, a separate nunnery that was originally the residence of Prince Shotoku’s mother. While Hōryū-ji is grand and masculine, Chuguji offers a more delicate, feminine atmosphere. …

As we conclude our tour of Hōryū-ji, we reflect on the central theme of Prince Shotoku's life: Harmony. Through the world's oldest wooden towers, the mystery of the 'swaying' pagoda, and the silent smile of the Miroku Bosatsu, we…