Horyuji

World's Oldest Wooden Buildings

Horyuji is a temple from the Asuka period built by Prince Shotoku, with most current buildings constructed around the 7th century as the world's oldest wooden building group. The entire complex was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993 as "Buddhist Monuments in the Horyuji Area."

Sai-in Temple Complex

The five-story pagoda (built around 607) and Golden Hall are Horyuji's symbols. Inside the pagoda are clay sculptures depicting Buddha's nirvana, and the Golden Hall enshrines the Shaka Triad (National Treasure), a masterpiece of Asuka Buddhist sculpture.

Yumedono (Hall of Dreams)

Yumedono (National Treasure), the center of the To-in Temple Complex, is an octagonal building conveying Prince Shotoku's visions. During special opening periods in spring and autumn, the "Guze Kannon" said to be modeled on the Prince's form is displayed.

Kudara Kannon Statue

The "Kudara Kannon" enshrined in Horyuji's Daihozoin treasury is a 7th century Buddhist statue characterized by its slender form, reportedly called "the world's greatest artwork" by France's Rodin.