Horyu-ji Temple
Horyu-ji Temple
4.5
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Admission tickets
from £71.03
£56.82
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4.5
623 reviews
Excellent
378
Very good
196
Average
41
Poor
7
Terrible
1
Bernard W
Dallas, TX1,914 contributions
Apr 2024 • Couples
Horyu-ji Temple is a large complex which was reconstructed in 1438. Entry fee was 1500 yen cash.The entrance, Nandaimon, is at the South Main Gate. The large complex has a There are cloisters. Photos are not permitted in Daikoda, Great Lecture Hall or the 5-story pagoda or Kondo, the main hall. There are many other buildings on site including Kudara Kannon Hall, the Great Treasury Gallery with interesting exhibits.
Written 5 June 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Martina1888
Inverness, UK506 contributions
Oct 2023 • Solo
This World Heritage Site can easily be accessed by train from Nara (train journey about 10min). From Horyuji train station it's about 20min to walk. The grounds are vast and the entrance fee is absolutely worth it. Make sure you set aside enough time. I recommend paying a visit to Chuguji Temple nearby as well.
Written 26 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
hfot2 🌸🍁🌸
Vermont7,579 contributions
Apr 2014 • Couples
So many words have been written by so many here that I’m going to try to mention only what might be helpful and what has not been described recently by others.
Expensive? yes. Worth it? yes.
This was our second visit to Horyu-ji and we retraced our footsteps from years past to see what has changed (not much) and what we missed (not much)
Goju-no-To (Five-story Pagoda)
Be sure to look in at all four sides of the five-story pagoda to see the large bas reliefs of Buddha’s life. We were told no photography was allowed, though we saw others shooting the sculptures. And, of course, no photo’ing is possible of the central pillar which enshrines a fragment Buddha’s bone. Look up to see the dragons and dwarf carved into the beams and pillars on the pagoda.
Daihozoin (Great Treasure Hall)
Be sure to find the entrance to the Treasure Hall. You will be turned away should you attempt to enter at the exit. The lighting on the displays was no better now than it was on our first visit, though we had hoped it might be.
To-in (Eastern precinct) and the Bell Tower
After leaving the main precinct, be sure to visit the rest of the compound
Chugu-ji
The easternmost component of this complex is entirely separate from Horyu-ji, with yet another admission fee. We skipped this.
Our old favorite tree
On our first trip here we stumbled upon this tree on a little, unused alley off the main pedestrian avenue. We were delighted to see this tenacious veteran still growing well. Others venerate it too. We saw coins left as offerings in one of the knot holes.
Temizuya (Water ablution pavilion)
Before proceeding down the main processional axis to leave, and before you turn your back on the pagoda, take a final (or first) look at the temizuya with its dragon water spout. This Shinto purification font is in front of the Sai-in.
South gate
Walking down the axis for one last time you return to the south gate where you entered and continue to walk down the extension of the axis through the town.
If, you are like us, you will be sad that you are leaving but, if you are like us, you will know that you will probably be back.
Expensive? yes. Worth it? yes.
This was our second visit to Horyu-ji and we retraced our footsteps from years past to see what has changed (not much) and what we missed (not much)
Goju-no-To (Five-story Pagoda)
Be sure to look in at all four sides of the five-story pagoda to see the large bas reliefs of Buddha’s life. We were told no photography was allowed, though we saw others shooting the sculptures. And, of course, no photo’ing is possible of the central pillar which enshrines a fragment Buddha’s bone. Look up to see the dragons and dwarf carved into the beams and pillars on the pagoda.
Daihozoin (Great Treasure Hall)
Be sure to find the entrance to the Treasure Hall. You will be turned away should you attempt to enter at the exit. The lighting on the displays was no better now than it was on our first visit, though we had hoped it might be.
To-in (Eastern precinct) and the Bell Tower
After leaving the main precinct, be sure to visit the rest of the compound
Chugu-ji
The easternmost component of this complex is entirely separate from Horyu-ji, with yet another admission fee. We skipped this.
Our old favorite tree
On our first trip here we stumbled upon this tree on a little, unused alley off the main pedestrian avenue. We were delighted to see this tenacious veteran still growing well. Others venerate it too. We saw coins left as offerings in one of the knot holes.
Temizuya (Water ablution pavilion)
Before proceeding down the main processional axis to leave, and before you turn your back on the pagoda, take a final (or first) look at the temizuya with its dragon water spout. This Shinto purification font is in front of the Sai-in.
South gate
Walking down the axis for one last time you return to the south gate where you entered and continue to walk down the extension of the axis through the town.
If, you are like us, you will be sad that you are leaving but, if you are like us, you will know that you will probably be back.
Written 7 March 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Romain S
Paris, France85 contributions
Jan 2015 • Family
Let me put it straight. This temple is pleasant to visit and historically important, sure. But 1500 yen for the combined entrance fee is WAY to expansive. A significant part of the grounds are free to visit, and from there (especially from the Saiendo - the elevated building on the north west corner), you can get beautiful views on the buildings of the main area (the pagoda, the daikodo, and the kondo). IMHO, the museum (Daihozodoen) is dispensable if you're not an expert in buddhist iconography (also, the explanation panels inside are in Japanese only). And finally, you can enter the part on the east (the yumedono) for 300 yen only (be informed that it's beautiful, like the rest, but there is not much to see). Sure, if you don't go past the Chumon gate, you will not see some carvings and statues inside the kondo and the pagoda. But are those worth 1500 yen? For me they weren't - there are plenty of more beautiful and cheaper temples in Kyoto for example - but you can decide that for yourself, depending on how much of a history buff you are.
Written 4 January 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Yobeekool
Tokyo, Japan24,091 contributions
Jan 2011 • Solo
Horyuji (lit. Temple of the Flourishing Law) is arguably the most celebrated temple in Japan, serving as seminary and monastery. In December of 1993, Horyuji together with Hokkiji became the first UNESCO World Heritage in Japan. The five-story pagoda, located in Sai-in area, stands at 32.45 meters in height and is believed to be the oldest wooden building in the world. Horyuji contains over 2,300 important cultural and historical structures and articles, including nearly 190 that have been designated as National Treasures or Important Cultural Properties.
The original Ikaruga-dera commissioned by Prince Shotoku was probably lost after being hit by lightning in 670. The temple was reconstructed but slightly reoriented in a northwest position, which is believed to have been completed by around 711. The temple was repaired and reassembled in the early twelfth century, in 1374, and 1603.
The original Ikaruga-dera commissioned by Prince Shotoku was probably lost after being hit by lightning in 670. The temple was reconstructed but slightly reoriented in a northwest position, which is believed to have been completed by around 711. The temple was repaired and reassembled in the early twelfth century, in 1374, and 1603.
Written 13 December 2011
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
markoboston
Boston, MA1,699 contributions
Oct 2017 • Friends
Certainly Horyuji is a cultural treasure, an amazingly well-preserved and ancient site. It may be worth visiting if you are deeply interested in architectural or art history and have a relaxed schedule. But if your time or budget are tight, or if you have had your fill of historic temples in Nara and Kyoto, you might want to skip this one.
I came here with two friends after spending most of the day at Nara on a day trip from Kyoto. They have an average level of interest in historic architecture and enjoyed the sights in Nara. The train ride from Nara is not too long, but the station is at least a 20-minute walk from Horyuji, and my friends were tired, so we took a taxi. When we finally reached Horyuji, we found that tickets would cost ¥1500 per person. That was too steep for my friends, who had had their fill of historic architecture in Nara. They agreed to wait for me while I, somewhat more interested in art and architectural history than they, quickly toured the complex. While I was there, a steady stream of Japanese schoolchildren arrived, numbering in the hundreds. The site quickly became too crowded and noisy to really appreciate and focus on the cultural treasures.
When I exited the site and rejoined my friends, we found a taxi, returned to the station, and then found that we faced a journey of 90 minutes, including 45 minutes standing on a crowded rush-hour train, to get back to Kyoto. Even for me, despite my interest in Japanese history and art, I felt that this site was not worth the time, trouble, and expense.
I came here with two friends after spending most of the day at Nara on a day trip from Kyoto. They have an average level of interest in historic architecture and enjoyed the sights in Nara. The train ride from Nara is not too long, but the station is at least a 20-minute walk from Horyuji, and my friends were tired, so we took a taxi. When we finally reached Horyuji, we found that tickets would cost ¥1500 per person. That was too steep for my friends, who had had their fill of historic architecture in Nara. They agreed to wait for me while I, somewhat more interested in art and architectural history than they, quickly toured the complex. While I was there, a steady stream of Japanese schoolchildren arrived, numbering in the hundreds. The site quickly became too crowded and noisy to really appreciate and focus on the cultural treasures.
When I exited the site and rejoined my friends, we found a taxi, returned to the station, and then found that we faced a journey of 90 minutes, including 45 minutes standing on a crowded rush-hour train, to get back to Kyoto. Even for me, despite my interest in Japanese history and art, I felt that this site was not worth the time, trouble, and expense.
Written 5 October 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
LaBu
San Francisco, California247 contributions
May 2013 • Couples
If you enjoy travel that takes you back in time and plops you in the middle of another era, the Horyu-ji is a must-see. This is the oldest major sight in Japan, the place where Japanese art and history began. Among the Horyu-ji’s attractions are the three oldest wood buildings in the world, the oldest oil paintings in the world, and many of the oldest and finest works of Japanese sculpture. And fortunately, the Horyu-ji isn’t just a dry academic exercise; it’s a fascinating place filled with strikingly beautiful art and architecture.
Warning: The Horyu-ji complex is vast, larger than you probably expect. It includes two monasteries, a sizable museum, and a nunnery. We allotted a half day to the Horyu-ji (we scheduled the Horyu-ji in the morning, the Toshodai-ji and Yakushi-ji in the afternoon). A half-day wasn’t enough, at least for us; we felt rushed. We’d like to go back and spend most of a day there.
For our visit to the Horyu-ji we were able to obtain the services of a volunteer guide from the Nara Guide Club (http://web1.kcn.jp/nara-guide-club/). Given how large and dense with meaning the temple complex is, this made a huge difference. Our guide was Seiichi Ozawa. He was excellent, and you might ask for him by name.
Warning: The Horyu-ji complex is vast, larger than you probably expect. It includes two monasteries, a sizable museum, and a nunnery. We allotted a half day to the Horyu-ji (we scheduled the Horyu-ji in the morning, the Toshodai-ji and Yakushi-ji in the afternoon). A half-day wasn’t enough, at least for us; we felt rushed. We’d like to go back and spend most of a day there.
For our visit to the Horyu-ji we were able to obtain the services of a volunteer guide from the Nara Guide Club (http://web1.kcn.jp/nara-guide-club/). Given how large and dense with meaning the temple complex is, this made a huge difference. Our guide was Seiichi Ozawa. He was excellent, and you might ask for him by name.
Written 16 June 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
dhhtravel
Hong Kong21 contributions
It was heavy rain when my family visited Horyuji Temple. My wife and I carried my little daughter in BB cart. When I bought the ticket in Ticket Office, the staff not just gave us the tickets. They tried their best to find out some materials to cover the lower part of the BB cart. They tied pieces of black rubbish bag on the BB cart to protect my baby not getting wet.
The most impressive moment was not visiting a heritage but I could feel the warm, heartful and kindness in the temple lively.
The most impressive moment was not visiting a heritage but I could feel the warm, heartful and kindness in the temple lively.
Written 8 February 2010
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Gemini6_tadvisor
Lyon, France407 contributions
Aug 2017 • Couples
As we were staying in a hotel in Umeda, Osaka, we took JR Yamatoji rapid service train from Osaka station to Horyuji station (640 yen, 40 minutes, direct service without changing trains) and then, a small bus from Horyuji station to Horyuji-mon mae (190 yen, 4 or 5 stops, 10 minutes, leaving every 20 minutes).
The entry to Horyuji cost JPY 1500, but includes three "places", Saiin Garan, Daiho Zoin and Toin Garan.
Unfortunately, one structure in Saiin Garan was in renovation and covered in sheets, but all other structures were visible.
The oldest wooden structure in the world, the five-story pagoda is in Saiin Garan, as almost 1400 years ago!! And it was nice to take a picture of us standing in front of the pagoda. (Like in many temples, the use of a tripod is forbidden. So, I asked one of the employees to take a picture of us.)
The inside of Daiho Zoin (2nd place) was air-conditioned (what a releaf!! on a hot summer day), and many old objects were exhibited (including Statues of Shotoku taishi, paintings, etc.)
Just outside of the entry to the temple, there are several restaurants and souvenir shops. So, we took a lunch in one of the restaurants.
Maybe because it was a week day, there were not so many tourists, and we could enjoy the quiet atmosphere in this very old temple.
By the way, with a ticket for Horyuji, you get a 100 yen discount to visit an adjacent temple, Chuguji.
We got the impression that Horyuji is much less touristic than the Big Buhdda temple (Todaiji). and we think it is well worth a visit, as the construction of this temple was decided or ordered by Shotoku Taishi, who contributed to the foundation of Japan as a nation.
The entry to Horyuji cost JPY 1500, but includes three "places", Saiin Garan, Daiho Zoin and Toin Garan.
Unfortunately, one structure in Saiin Garan was in renovation and covered in sheets, but all other structures were visible.
The oldest wooden structure in the world, the five-story pagoda is in Saiin Garan, as almost 1400 years ago!! And it was nice to take a picture of us standing in front of the pagoda. (Like in many temples, the use of a tripod is forbidden. So, I asked one of the employees to take a picture of us.)
The inside of Daiho Zoin (2nd place) was air-conditioned (what a releaf!! on a hot summer day), and many old objects were exhibited (including Statues of Shotoku taishi, paintings, etc.)
Just outside of the entry to the temple, there are several restaurants and souvenir shops. So, we took a lunch in one of the restaurants.
Maybe because it was a week day, there were not so many tourists, and we could enjoy the quiet atmosphere in this very old temple.
By the way, with a ticket for Horyuji, you get a 100 yen discount to visit an adjacent temple, Chuguji.
We got the impression that Horyuji is much less touristic than the Big Buhdda temple (Todaiji). and we think it is well worth a visit, as the construction of this temple was decided or ordered by Shotoku Taishi, who contributed to the foundation of Japan as a nation.
Written 4 August 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Leo R
Singapore, Singapore312 contributions
Oct 2016 • Couples
Located by train (JR line) approximately 15 minutes from Nara station (3 stops). You can then access the temple by bus or taxi or it is a fifteen minute walk which is well signed in English. The entry fee is 1,500 yen for adults but you are entitled to a free guide.
We spent a good two hours walking the various sections of the temple which date back to 609AD. The original wood structure to the main temple till stands proudly today. Inside the various sub temples we were introduced to the Buddist way of life from the 600AD to about 900AD and to how Buddism was first introduced to Japan from Korea.
All in all a very interesting and informative visit. This is also Japan's first world cultural heritage site.
We spent a good two hours walking the various sections of the temple which date back to 609AD. The original wood structure to the main temple till stands proudly today. Inside the various sub temples we were introduced to the Buddist way of life from the 600AD to about 900AD and to how Buddism was first introduced to Japan from Korea.
All in all a very interesting and informative visit. This is also Japan's first world cultural heritage site.
Written 18 October 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Is there free parking for a car?
Written 16 January 2020
Hi there you can catch the bus directly there about an hour ride, no need for tour you can self guide very easily. there is tourist info centre outside kinetsu nara station the staff are very helpful and can give you the bus details which you also catch from outside.
Written 20 July 2017
A Tripadvisor member
Prospect Heights, Illinois
Hello, thank you for a great review of Horyuji Temple. I'm going to visit it next year. I hope you can answer my question. Actually - two questions. I am an avid photographer and also an amateur movie maker. Please, let me know if photography and video is allowed at this temple. Have you seen people taking photos? Second - I'd like to bring in a camera tripod. Have you seen anybody using those? Some places don't allow tripods. Thanks, Albert
Written 16 November 2016
Some areas allow photography and filming...other areas do not. If I were you, I would contact them ahead of time and explain what it is you would like to do to see if they may make an exception for you. I did see people with tripods, but I also remember signs prohibiting them in places. I hope this helps. It is a wonderful and fascinating place to visit. Enjoy!
Written 17 January 2017
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