Kindō (left), Gōjūtō (right) and a typical queue to get in
Nandaimon (南大門, "South Great Gate"). A suitably grand entrance, this National Treasure dates to 1438.
Chūmon (中門, "Center Gate"). This Asuka-era gate marks the entry into the inner sanctum inside the Kairō (回廊). The Kongo-rikishi guardian statues on the sides of the gate are the oldest in Japan.
Kondō (金堂, "Golden Hall"; also Kondō). Dating to c. 700 and purpotedly the oldest wooden building in the world, this squat Asuka-era edifice is also known for the priceless statues and frescoes within ? expect queues to get in. Located in the Kairo.
Gōjūnotō (五重塔, "Five Story Pagoda"). The Laurel to Kindo's Hardy, this graceful five-story pagoda is the oldest in Japan and a much-copied archetype. Located in the Kairo.
Daikōdō (大講堂, "Great Teaching Hall"). On the north side of the Kairo, this hall dating from the Heian era (990) is one of the largest buildings in Horyuji.
Daihōzōden (大宝蔵殿 "Great Treasure Store Hall"). A modern building housing a permanent exhibition of some of the temple's wealth, accumulated over a millennium. Contains many objects which were originally part of Horyuji, including the nationally famous Kudara Kannon.
Tōdaimon (東大門, "East Great Gate"). This stately gate was once another entrance into the temple, but now marks the division between the west and the east halves of the complex.
The Most Frequently Asked Travel Questions about Horyuji
Where To Stay & Best Hotels in Horyuji - updated May 2024
SAVE up to 75% on Last Minute deals! Search for discount Horyuji hotels, motels, apartments, hostels, guest accommodations and vacation resorts. Book now and pay at the hotel. Instant email confirmation!
Horyuji Travel Guide from Wikitravel. Many thanks to all Wikitravel contributors. Text is available under Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0, images are available under various licenses, see each image for details.
