Understand

The captivating town of Horyuji has flourished around its namesake temple, known as the "Temple of the Flourishing Law." This ancient Buddhist temple dates back to 607 when it was commissioned by Prince Shotoku. Its purpose was to house a sacred image of the Yakushi (Medicine) Buddha. Horyuji Temple holds tremendous historical significance, being designated as one of Japan's earliest UNESCO World Heritage sites. Astonishingly, it proudly stands as the oldest surviving wooden structure in the world, carrying tales and wisdom from centuries past.

Get in

If you're in Nara or Osaka and looking for an adventure, make your way to JR Horyuji station! This station is conveniently located on the Yamatoji line, just a short 12-minute train ride from Nara and 23 minutes from Osaka. You can also easily access it from Oji station in just 2 minutes. Once you arrive, get ready to explore the magnificent Horyuji temple. This ancient temple is a 20-minute walk from the station, but if walking isn't your thing, no worries! There are frequent buses that can take you directly to the temple, departing right in front of Oji station. Don't miss the chance to discover the rich history and beauty of Horyuji temple. From its stunning architecture to its serene surroundings, this hidden gem is waiting to be explored!

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Sushi: Sushi is a traditional Japanese dish consisting of vinegared rice served with various toppings, typically fish or seafood. The rice is usually accompanied by a small piece of nori (seaweed) and sometimes features a dab of wasabi, pickled ginger, or soy sauce. There are many variations, including nigiri (hand-pressed sushi), maki (rolled sushi), and sashimi (slices of raw fish).

Ramen: Ramen is a widely popular soup dish in Japan that includes Chinese-style wheat noodles served in a meat or fish-based broth. It is often garnished with ingredients such as pork, dried seaweed, menma (fermented soybean paste), scallions, and miso paste. The dish can be found in various styles, including tonkotsu (pork bone broth), shoyu (soy sauce broth), and miso.

Tempura: Tempura is a deep-fried dish where seafood, vegetables, or mushrooms are battered and then cooked in hot oil. The light, crispy batter turns golden brown and creates a contrast with the soft textures of the ingredients inside. Traditional tempura elements include shrimp, sweet potato, pumpkin, spinach, and green beans. It is typically served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, Mirin, and dashi.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing