What this area is like
Horyu-ji, founded by Prince Shotoku, has buildings regarded as the oldest surviving wooden structures in the world and was Japan’s first World Heritage site with Himeji Castle.
Plan your visit
From JR Horyuji Station, take a bus or walk about 20 minutes.
Choose your next step
Places to see in this area
Horyu-ji Temple
Founded by Prince Shotoku, with the oldest surviving wooden buildings in the world. It was Japan’s first World Heritage Site.
- Access
- From JR Horyuji Station (about 15 minutes from Nara on the Yamatoji Line), take Nara Kotsu bus 72 to Horyuji Sando and walk 5 minutes, or walk about 15 minutes from the station.
- Hours
- 22 February–3 November 8:00–17:00; 4 November–21 February 8:00–16:30.
- Fee
- Adults ¥2,000; junior high ¥1,700; elementary ¥1,000.
- Address
- Horyuji-sannai, Ikaruga-cho, Ikoma District, Nara
The Yumedono hall in the eastern precinct shows its hidden Kannon statue only in spring and autumn special openings.
How to plan your time here
- Allow two to three hours: the western precinct with the pagoda, the treasure galleries and the eastern precinct with Yumedono.
- Horyu-ji is between Nara and Osaka on the JR Yamatoji Line, so it fits on the way from one city to the other.
Information checked 26 October 2026. Plans are JapaLens editorial suggestions, not on-site reviews. Hours and fees can change; check the official page before you go.