Horyuji

One of the most beautiful temple complexes in Japan is located in Ikagura Township, 15 km south-west of Nara City. The jewel in the crown is the Horyuji Temple, which is home to masterpieces of architecture, sculpture and painting in Japan.

Places to visit

Horyuji Temple

This temple was founded in 607 by Prince Shotoku, great protector of Buddhism. It includes around 50 buildings, some of which are the oldest wooden buildings in the world. The main points of interest in Horyuji are the Nandaimon (Great South Gate), the Kondo (main building), the Shoryoin (the pavilion of the Holy Spirit), the five-story pagoda, the Daikodo (the reading pavilion) and the Yumenodo (the pavilion of Dreams).
Unesco World Heritage Site

• 20 minute walk from JR Horyuji Station, 5 minute walk from Horyuji Mi Mae bus stop (bus 52, 97 or 98).
  http://www.horyuji.or.jp/horyuji_e.htm

Chuguji Temple

Located near the East Horyuji Temple, the monastery houses a magnificent 6th or 7th century wooden statue depicting the Bodhisattva Nyorin Kannon (Miroku Bosatsu). The sweetness of her smile makes her known as the most beautiful smile in Japan.

• 5 minute walk from Chuguji Mae bus stop (bus 60, 63 or 92).

Horinji Temple

To the northeast of the Horyuji Temple rises this ancient temple founded in 622. It is especially famous for a wooden statue of Yakushi Nyorai, the Bodhisattva protector against disease.

• 15 minute walk from Chuguji Mae bus stop (bus 60, 63 or 92).

Hojiki Temple

This temple was founded in 638. There is a three-story pagoda that dates back to AD 706, and is generally regarded as the oldest pagoda in Japan.
Unesco World Heritage Site

• 10 minute walk from Hokijiguchi bus stop (bus 60 or 63); Hokiji Mae stop (bus 50 or 97).

Transport

• 40 minutes by bus from Nara Kintetsu Station or 18 minutes from JR Nara Station by bus (Nara Kotsu Bus Lines No. 52 or 97)> Toshodaiji Temple

JR Nara Station> (JR Nara Line)> JR Horyuji Station