Japan

Horyuji Temple, Japan

About Horyuji Temple

Although the temple was damaged in a fire and was later rebuilt, the main buildings continue to have influence from the three kingdoms of Korea, eastern Han and Greek architecture too. From the frescoes and statues to other art works in the museum, many have their influence from China, Korea, and India. In fact the Tokyo National Museum has over 300 objects that were donated to the Horyu ji imperial household in the 1870s and many are on display.

Day Wise Timings

Burj Khalifa opening hours through the week.

Open 7 days a week

Paid entry

Monday08:00 – 16:30

Tuesday08:00 – 16:30

Wednesday08:00 – 16:30

Thursday08:00 – 16:30

Friday08:00 – 16:30

Saturday08:00 – 16:30

Sunday08:00 – 16:30

Hours are seasonal — confirm your date at checkout. Special events may extend closing time.

Horyuji Temple Highlights

• Take a guided tour of the temple and check out the architecture and sculpture dating back to the 700s
• Visit the Hall of Visions and check out the life sized statue of Prince Shotoku which is open to the public twice a year.
• Explore the Gallery of Temple Treasures and check out the important temple relics like statues and masks.
• Stroll through the great lecture hall and check to get a glimpse of Yakushi Niorai and the two Bodhisattvas.
• Climb to the top of the five storeys pagoda and admire the views from the top while you check out the different types of dragon sculptures.

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Point of Interest for Horyuji Temple

Visit the Kondo

Alternatively known as the Main Hall, the Kondo is one of the oldest living structures in the temple. This building has two floors and is filled with dragon sculptures and they date back to the Asuka period. Once you enter the hall, you will find some of the most important treasures of the temple, ranging from Shaka Nyorai and the Amida Nyorai. You will also find the wooden statues of the Four Heavenly Kings and prominent manifestations of the Buddha, so don't miss out on this place.

Visit the Pagoda

The Pagoda or the temple tower in this temple is the oldest of its kind. It is 32 metres tall and is filled with traditional designs dating back to the Asuka period. Inside the pagoda, you will find different statues made from clay dating back to the early 700s. Many of these statues depict scenes from the Buddha’s life. In fact, it is interesting to know that the pagoda has five storeys and is the oldest in the world.

Visit the Hall of visions

The hall of visions is alternatively known as Yumedono and is easily recognizable through its octagon shaped structure. This is a structure dedicated to Prince Shotoku and houses a life sized gold foil statue of Prince Shotoku. This statue is known as Kuse Kannon and was originally wrapped in silk and hidden for centuries. However, the statue was unveiled to the public in the late 1880s and is not available for public viewing.

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