17 must-visit tourist spots around Horyuji Temple

When thinking of Ikaruga, the iconic Horyuji Temple immediately comes to mind. However, the surrounding Ikaruga area is also home to numerous other fascinating tourist attractions. While the famous waka poem "When eating persimmons, the bell tolls at Horyuji" might evoke an image of autumn being the perfect time to visit, the area is also rich in stunning flower-viewing spots. Beyond historic landmarks, enjoying tours focused on flowers can be just as fulfilling.

With the recent history boom, Horyuji, Prince Shotoku, and the surrounding shrines and temples have gained even more recognition. Exploring these places on foot offers an enriching experience, distinct from merely seeing them on TV. You’ll feel the profound weight of history firsthand. So, why not embark on a journey to discover the historical wonders of Yamato Road?

1. Horyuji Temple

If you're visiting Ikaruga, the must-see tourist spot is Horyuji Temple Temple. Also known as Ikaruga-dera, this temple was built by Prince Shotoku at the command of Empress Suiko. Even those who aren't particularly interested in history will know about this legend. The Yakushi Nyorai statue, which was created at the same time as the temple was built, is the principal image of the Horyuji Temple. It is still enshrined in the Kondo Hall and can be worshiped as it was at the time.

Many of Horyuji Temple's structures, including the Kondo Hall and the five-story pagoda, are treasured as national treasures. If you're visiting, you can't miss it. The temple grounds surrounding these precious buildings are also beautiful in every season. In spring, the cherry blossoms bloom on the grounds, and in autumn, Japanese silver grass adds a touch of elegance. No matter how many times you visit, this famous temple is filled with pure air that will cleanse your soul.

If you're not satisfied with just sightseeing and would like to get closer to Horyuji Temple, you can participate in the Horyuji Summer University held in the summer. Every year, people of all ages and genders from all over the country gather here to learn about Buddhism, Buddhist history, Buddhist art, etc. It is no exaggeration to say that it is the most famous temple in Japan, and its doors are open to the public.

2. Hokkiji Temple

Hokkiji Temple is an ancient temple that is said to be one of the seven temples built by Prince Shotoku. Prince Shotoku built seven temples in total, including Hokkiji Temple, Chuguji Temple, and Shitennoji Temple. The fact that he built seven temples shows how important Prince Shotoku was in the Buddhist world at that time.

It is said that Hokkiji Temple was converted from Okamoto Palace, where Prince Shotoku preached the Lotus Sutra in the 14th year of the reign of Empress Suiko, into a temple upon the death of Empress Suiko. For this reason, it is also known as Okamoto Temple and Okamoto Nunnery.

The only remaining structure is the three-story pagoda. This three-story pagoda is the oldest and most valuable in the world and was built in 708. It is a tower that has been repaired and preserved for a long time. If you go sightseeing, you should definitely see not only Horyuji Temple but also this three-story pagoda, which is associated with Prince Shotoku. This temple once fell into considerable decline but was restored after the Edo period, so traces of buildings from that time can still be seen.

3. Chuguji Temple

This is one of the seven temples built by Prince Shotoku and was built at the request of Prince Shotoku's mother. The original structure has been lost and the location has changed slightly, but it is said that it was originally built to be a counterpart to the famous Wakakusa Garan at Horyu-ji Temple. As a nunnery, it is the oldest in Japan, dating back to the Asuka period. It is a popular tourist spot, especially for women.

The temple is particularly noteworthy for the splendor of its collection. The principal image, the "Half-seated Bodhisattva," is considered the greatest masterpiece of Asuka period sculpture and is designated as a national treasure. The striking black color and gentle face of this Bodhisattva make it a lasting impression.

Another example is the "Tenjukoku Mandala Embroidery Scroll," which is said to have been created by Prince Shotoku's wife, who mourned his death, and had a scene of Tenjukoku, where the prince would have been, embroidered. Only a small part of it remains, but it is a valuable historical document that reveals a lot about the dyeing techniques, clothing, and Buddhism of the time. The intricacy of the work, which was created in memory of the prince, is overwhelming. The one at Chuguji Temple is a replica, and the real thing is in the Nara National Museum, so why not take a trip there and see it while you're sightseeing?

4. Horinji Temple

This temple is located in Mii, the northern tip of Ikaruga, directly north of Horyuji Temple. It is located in a scenic area (a designated area for maintaining historically important places) and stands in a tranquil landscape. It is said that the temple was built by Prince Shotoku's son, Prince Yamashiro no Oe, in hopes of the prince's recovery from illness, and is also called Miidera after the name of the place.

At this temple, you may be able to hear the rare sound of a futaku (wind chimes). A futaku is a bronze bell-shaped bell that is hung as decoration on the four corners of the roof of a hall or tower. Have you ever noticed something hanging on the roof of a temple?

Many old futaku are broken and do not ring, but this futaku was just replaced in 1975 after repairs, so it rings properly when the wind blows. The mechanism that makes it ring is the same as a wind chime, and the sound it makes is said to be... a unique, dry sound. Are you interested in visiting the sounds?

5. Yoshida Temple

Yoshida-dera, also known as "Pokkuri-dera" (Pokkuri Temple), is a historic temple that was built by the imperial order of Emperor Tenchi. The nickname is humorous, so it's easy to feel a sense of familiarity. Within the temple grounds is the tomb of Emperor Tenchi's younger sister, Princess Amida.

It is called Pokkuri-dera because of the legend that Eshin Sozu, the founder of Yoshida-dera, dressed his mother in a sacred robe as she lay on her deathbed and chanted "Namu Amida Butsu," which caused her mother to pass away peacefully. Inspired by this, there is a constant stream of people coming to pray for protection from long-term illness. With the aging society, it seems likely that the number of tourists and worshippers who come to pray will increase in the future.

Here you can experience making your own goshuincho (stamp book), which is currently a big hit. Once you have made your own original goshuincho (stamp book), chant the Nembutsu, listen to a sermon, and receive the Yoshida-dera goshuin (stamp) on the first page. Reservations are required, so please apply at least 10 days in advance. Having an original goshuincho (stamp book) will add another layer of enjoyment to your sightseeing trips to shrines and temples.

6. Matsuo-ji Temple

As it claims to be "Japan's oldest sacred place for warding off evil," this temple is famous for warding off evil. In 718, Emperor Tenmu's son Prince Toneri was in the middle of compiling the Nihon Shoki, but since it was his unlucky year, he built this temple so that the Nihon Shoki would be completed safely and to ward off evil himself.

When the temple was built, the prince went to Mt. Matsuo for training, and on the very day he prayed, he saw a purple cloud said to be an auspicious cloud on the eastern mountain, and the Thousand-Armed Thousand-Eyed Kannon Bodhisattva descended. The Thousand-Armed Thousand-Eyed Kannon Bodhisattva that descended at this time is the principal image of the temple, the Kannon Bodhisattva for warding off evil.

What is impressive about this temple, as a temple for warding off evil, is the aftercare provided to those who have drawn a bad or very bad fortune in their fortune slips. The head priest writes a written message for them. If you draw a very bad fortune, it can be quite damaging. This kind of way of extending a helping hand is a perfect example of the spirit of warding off evil spirits. If you come here for sightseeing, you can draw your fortune with peace of mind.

7. Tatsuta Shrine

Fujin Tatsuta Taisha is a shrine that enshrines the god of wind. It is said that the shrine was founded 2100 years ago, during the reign of Emperor Sujin, to save the people from poor harvests and epidemics. Its blessings, which have continued since the age of myths, are something you would want to receive.

What catches your eye at this shrine is the eight-leaf maple mark. It is called a "Goshinmon". It is like a family crest, or in modern terms, an icon. This Goshinmon has a meaning, and since the god of wind worshipped at Tatsuta Taisha corresponds to wood energy in the Yin-Yang and Five Elements, the character for wind and wood is used to write "kaede", and the double-petaled maple leaf was chosen to spread the refreshing energy of the god of wind in all eight directions. It is not only a nod to this symbol, but also a cute one. If you come to see it, try to see how many you can find.

There are also seasonal events, and the Fujin Festival held in July is a must-see, with the Fujin fireworks on display. The sight of hand-held fireworks lined up and scattering sparks into the sky is beautiful and impressive. This is definitely a time to visit. The cherry blossoms that decorate the temple grounds in spring are also magnificent.

8. Ikaruga Shrine

If you go sightseeing at Horyuji Temple, this is also recommended. Ikaruga Shrine, located northeast of Horyuji Temple and near Tenman Pond, is said to be the shrine that protects Horyuji Temple. To us today, Buddhism and Shintoism seem like completely separate things, but was Shintoism in the position of protecting Buddhism at that time...? This is a rather difficult question, so let's leave it aside for now.

This shrine enshrines Sugawara no Michizane. In other words, Tenmangu Shrine. Tenmangu Shrines are known for their cows, but this shrine also has Koma-ushi, not lion dogs. It is a shrine located on a small hill and has a very comfortable old feel.

In mid-October, this shrine holds a dedication of "Futon Taiko". Futon Taiko is a large drum stand, a type of float, but it is characterized by the fact that many large futons are piled up on the roof of the float. It is a brave festival in which the large, heavy floats are carried. It is said that as many as five Futon Taiko appear in the festival at Ikaruga Shrine. This festival has become rare these days, but if you are visiting during the autumn tourist season, it is definitely something you should see.

9. Fujinoki Tomb

If you are visiting Horyuji Temple, be sure to check this out. Fujinoki Tomb is located just to the west of Horyuji Temple and can be reached in just a few minutes on foot. It was a big topic when it was discovered as it was an ancient tomb that had not been looted. On the contrary, when it was opened, many grave goods of the national treasure class were excavated from inside, far exceeding expectations, and it surprised those involved. You can imagine the excitement at the time.

Now that the maintenance is complete, tourists can look inside the stone chamber from outside. There is one stone coffin, but it contains the remains of two people. Since it is still unclear whose tomb it is, it is called the person buried in Kitakawa and the person buried in the south. It seems that couples are often buried in such communal tombs, but since both of these bodies have male-like skeletons, it is still a source of controversy. I can't wait for the day when it is solved.

10. Nishizato Townscape

For those who enjoy sightseeing and strolling through old townscapes, we recommend the Nishizato Streets. Located on the west side of Horyu-ji Temple, the earthen walls of old houses continue on and on. In fact, this place is very closely related to Horyu-ji Temple.

This area is close to the west gate of Horyu-ji Temple, where many of the carpenters who worked on the temple's construction lived. There is also a similar place called Higashizato on the east side, and both were places where people who supported Horyu-ji Temple lived. Horyu-ji Temple is a large structure, so many different people probably came and went on a daily basis.

The streets lined with white plaster walls are a place that conveys to the present day the breath of the people who lived around Horyu-ji Temple at that time. Why not take a sightseeing stroll with your camera in hand?

11. Cosmos in Ikaruga Village

Ikaruga Village, that is, the area around Horyu-ji Temple, Hoki-ji Temple, Horin-ji Temple, etc., is popular with tourists as a hiking course.

Not only is it charming with old temples scattered around, but there are few buildings that ruin the atmosphere, so it is a very pleasant place to walk. The absence of buildings allows a pleasant breeze to pass through. Cosmos are actively planted in the fallow fields near Hoki-ji Temple. Cosmos are surprisingly hardy, and they will grow back even if you pull them out. You wouldn't imagine this from their delicate appearance.

Cosmos look delicate but have a strong life force, and the sight of the pink flowers swaying in the wind is cute. Take a photo with Japan's oldest three-story pagoda at Hoki-ji Temple. The three-story pagoda is not too tall, so it will be nicely framed with flowers. This is a special photo that you can only take here, and it will be a good memory of your trip.

12. Nara Prefectural Tatsuta Park

Tatsuta Park is a prefectural park developed on the banks of the Tatsuta River. The Kokin Wakashu also contains a poem by Ariwara no Narihira about the autumn leaves of Tatsuta, and the park has been known as a famous spot for autumn leaves since ancient times. The best time to see the leaves is from late November to early December. The beauty of the autumn leaves reflected on the surface of the river on a sunny day is exceptional.

The park stretches along the river, so you can stroll around the park along the river. Along the way, there is a bridge with a cute red balustrade called "Momijibashi" and tiles on the bank with a maple leaf pattern, so there are many spots where you can take photos. If you are one of those people who want to take lots of photos as a souvenir, then if you come to visit Horyuji Temple in the fall, you should also visit Tatsuta Park.

The best time to see the autumn leaves is in the fall, but the river is shallow and you can go down to the water's edge, so it might be nice to come and play in the water with your children in the summer. A place to relax by the water is a place you'll want to visit regardless of the season.

13. Old Cloth Gallery Otani

Do you know what kogire is? It seems to be a word used in various ways, with some saying it means valuable imported textiles, and others saying it means old fabrics from before the war. There is no doubt that it means old textiles.

The items sold here are all from before the Meiji period, before chemical dyes and machine weaving were introduced, so they are quite old. This gallery is lined with beautiful textiles woven for high-ranking women in the Edo period, and allows you to experience the splendor of Japanese textile culture.

This shop is visited by kimono lovers and it seems to be popular with foreign tourists as well. Even for some people, there is no opportunity to see such old things, and since it is a gallery that has a rare collection nationwide, it is definitely worth stopping by when you are sightseeing at Horyuji Temple. It is just a short walk from Horyuji Temple.

14. Horyuji Country Club

I discovered a golf course named after Horyuji Temple in Ikaruga, a land of historical tourism. If you like golf and history, you'll want to play at a golf course with a name like this at least once. You'll feel like Prince Shotoku. This golf course is separated by pine forests, and it is a very beautiful course with outstanding scenery with many ponds along the way. The mountains of Nara are in the background. Nara is characterized by low altitudes and round-topped mountains, as represented by Yoshino.

The course overlooking the mountains of Nara is open and in a great location. It's a luxurious environment where you can enjoy golf while sightseeing in the nature of Nara. However, the pine forests and ponds may be a problem when playing?! It depends on your skill.

It's nice to travel to a tourist city and experience history, but if you want a change of scenery, this is the place to go. An exhilarating sports experience is a great feeling. Let's go and wash off a refreshing sweat.

15. Ikaruga Town Cultural Assets Utilization Center

There are many historical buildings and ancient tombs in the area around Horyuji Temple and Ikaruga. You can of course see them on site, but this is a facility where you can learn more about them. If you are going on a historical tour, this is a must-visit facility.

In particular, you can leave the displays and explanations related to the Fujinoki Tomb to us. Replicas of the many excavated grave goods are on permanent display. The real ones are permanently exhibited at the Kashihara Archaeological Institute Museum as national treasures, but if you go to the tomb, you'll want to know what the grave goods were like near the site. This place will satisfy your desire. You can enjoy the state of the burials at the time, which is more colorful than the real thing because it is a replica.

In the video hall, you can learn about the history of the Fujinoki Tomb and Ikaruga. In the garden of the facility, there is also an object modeled after the stone coffin that was inside the tomb. It is a place where you can learn in detail while sightseeing casually.

16. Yamatoji Heguri Roadside Station

This is a multi-purpose facility in Heguri Town that is popular among locals. Everyone from adults to children can have fun here. For shopping, head to the roadside station Heguri Kumagashi Station. You can enjoy the local feel that is unique to roadside stations, such as local vegetables and handmade daifuku. You may discover some unexpected local specialties, so why not give it a visit

17. Matsumotoya

After sightseeing at Horyuji Temple, one of the best parts of sightseeing is looking for souvenirs. This is the largest town in front of Horyuji Temple, and you can find all kinds of souvenirs from Horyuji Temple and Ikaruga here. Popular items are local products such as warabimochi and narazuke. Matsumotoya's original "persimmon udon" is also popular, named after the Japanese poem "If you eat persimmons...".

There is also a restaurant inside the building. You can also eat the persimmon udon introduced as a souvenir here. The persimmon udon served in a zaru udon bowl has a light orange persimmon color. A little green udon is placed on top of the round, mounded persimmon udon, creating a persimmon shape out of the udon. You must take a photo of this as a souvenir of your trip!

There are other menu items that use persimmons, and the persimmon soft serve is also popular. This is also a faint persimmon color. It really makes you feel like you're at Horyuji Temple. After enjoying a leisurely meal and shopping in the large building, it's time to head out for your next sightseeing trip.

◎Summary

The area around Horyu-ji Temple and the surrounding Ikaruga area is an attractive tourist destination that has retained an ancient atmosphere while also being fun to revitalize the town. There are so many places to visit that you may not be able to see them all in one sightseeing trip. There are also rare events, so it's nice to go there multiple times and become an Ikaruga expert. It's rare to find a place that you can enjoy no matter when you visit.

If you went to Horyu-ji Temple on a school trip, you may not be able to appreciate the true beauty of Horyu-ji Temple unless you go again as an adult. First, go on a trip to visit Horyu-ji Temple, the most important of all sightseeing trips. I'm sure it will be a wonderful sightseeing trip.

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17 must-visit tourist spots around Horyuji Temple