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More temples near Nara

Horyuji Travel Blog › entry 294 of 347 › view all entries

Summary of my travels since starting to travel for work in 2004. Three continents and three jobs later, this blog is an ongoing work in process. All locations are entered through present, will be adding descriptions and pictures as I have the opportunity. Please let me know if you see an entry without info you would like me to upload pictures for and I can take care of adding that location's items sooner.

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World › Asia › Japan › Horyuji

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More temples near Nara

May 29, 2008

Horyuji is located around 15 minutes away from Nara on the JR Yamatoji line towards Osaka. Took the train from Nara and walked to the temple from the station…a little further than I expected, especially since it was a little warm today.

Horyuji Temple is the first of Japan’s UNESCO World Cultural Heritage sights, joining the list in 1993 along with Himeji Castle. The world’s oldest surviving wooden structures are located on the grounds of the temple, dating back to the 6^th century.

Unfortunately, the Kondo (Main Hall) is undergoing some internal restorations and is not open at present, but the temple grounds are open and all other buildings are visible, and quite beautiful to behold. Be sure to take the side path to the left of the main entrance and go up to the Saiendo (Round Hall) for a nice view of the main temple and five-story pagoda.