Note: This is a provisional (unofficial) English translation of the Japanese page published on our Japanese site (Japanese original). The Japanese original takes precedence. The translation may be revised without notice.
Ikaruga-san Horyu Gakumon-ji (斑鳩山 法隆学問寺), commonly known as Horyu-ji, is a temple in Ikaruga Town, Ikoma District, Nara Prefecture. This article covers its sect, principal image, history, access and more.
Basic information
| Temple name | Ikaruga-san Horyu Gakumon-ji (commonly Horyu-ji) |
|---|---|
| Sect | Shotoku sect |
| Principal image (honzon) | Shaka Nyorai (National Treasure) |
| Address | 1-1 Horyu-ji Sannai, Ikaruga Town, Ikoma District, Nara Prefecture |
History
- 607 (Suiko 15): The temple is traditionally said to have been founded by Empress Suiko and Prince Shotoku.
- 670 (Tenji 9): The main compound burned down.
- 708 (Wado 1): Rebuilding began by imperial edict.
- 739 (Tenpyo 11): Priest Gyoshin built the Eastern Precinct (Yumedono).
- 1878 (Meiji 11): Over 300 treasures were donated to the Imperial Household.
- 1949 (Showa 24): A fire in the Golden Hall led to the enactment of the Cultural Properties Protection Law.
- 1993 (Heisei 5): Registered as a World Heritage Site under the name “Buddhist Monuments in the Horyu-ji Area.”
Visitor tips
The Western Precinct (Saiin Garan), which includes the Golden Hall (Kondo), the five-storied pagoda and the Middle Gate (Chumon), is said to be the oldest existing group of wooden buildings in the world. Other highlights include Yumedono in the Eastern Precinct, the Kudara Kannon in the Daihozo-in treasure hall (about 209 cm tall, with an elegant eight-head proportion), and the Yumechigai Kannon.
Visiting guide (fees, hours, parking, etc.)
| Visiting hours | February 22 to November 3: 8:00–17:00 (entry to the five-storied pagoda and Golden Hall closes at 15:55). November 4 to February 21: 8:00–16:30 (entry closes at 15:25). The Eastern Precinct, including Yumedono, follows the same schedule. |
|---|---|
| Parking | The Horyu-ji Sightseeing Parking lot is about a 2-minute walk from the temple. |
This guide is based on information from each source as of September 19, 2026. Fees, hours and events may change. Please check the latest information with the temple or tourism association before visiting.
Map
Other temples in Nara Prefecture
- Todai-ji (東大寺)
- Kofuku-ji (興福寺)
- Yakushi-ji (薬師寺)
- Toshodai-ji (唐招提寺)
- Gango-ji (元興寺)
- Shin-yakushi-ji (新薬師寺)
For ancestor researchers
If you are looking for a family temple (bodai-ji) or a necrology register (kakocho), see also the list of temples in Nara Prefecture (by municipality).
