Difference between revisions of "Hōryū-ji" - New World Encyclopedia

Buddhist Monuments in the Horyu-ji Area
Buddhist Monuments in the Horyu-ji Area*
UNESCO World Heritage Site
State Party	Japan
Type	Cultural
Criteria	i, ii, iv, vi
Reference	660
Region**	Asia-Pacific
	Inscription history
Inscription	1993 (17th Session)
	* Name as inscribed on World Heritage List.; ** Region as classified by UNESCO.

Revision as of 11:12, 17 July 2008

Hōryū-ji| (法隆寺; Temple of the Flourishing Law) is a Buddhist temple in Ikaruga, Nara Prefecture, Japan. Its full name is Hōryū Gakumonji (法隆学問寺), or “Learning Temple of the Flourishing Law,” because the site serves as a seminary as well as a monastery. The temple is widely acknowledged to have some of the oldest wooden buildings in the world, and is one of the most celebrated temples in Japan.^[1]^[2] Hōryū-ji was originally built in 607 by Empress Suiko and Crown Prince Shotoku, to fulfill a vow made by Emperor Yomei during his final illness. A fire in 670 destroyed the original buildings, but a reconstruction was completed in 711 and new structures were continually added to the temple through the 19th century. Hōryū-ji represents 14 centuries of uninterrupted observance of Buddhist tradition, and is considered a living history of the development of Buddhism in Japan.

Hōryū-ji contains over 2,300 important cultural and historical structures, art treasures and artifacts. In 1993, Hōryū-ji was one of 48 Buddhist monuments designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Many of the temple’s 45 buildings are listed as National Treasures by the Japanese government.

History

File:Hōryū-ji Gate0308.jpg

The Gate

The story of Hōryū-ji 's founding is inscribed on the back of the halo of the Yakusi Nyorai Buddha statue, located in the temple's Main Hall, and recorded in an official inventory of Hōryū-ji property prepared in 747. According to these records, shortly before his death in 587, the emperor Yomei made a vow to build a temple and an image of the Buddha as a prayer for his recovery from an illness. In 607, his sister, Empress Suiko, and his son, Crown Prince Shotoku fulfilled Emperor Yomei's deathbed vow by building a temple and erecting a statue of a Buddha, the Yakusi Nyorai (Bhaisajyaguru; literally, "arrival as a healer") to which it was dedicated. ^[2] The temple was named "Ikaruga-dera" (斑鳩寺) for the site where it was located, a name that is still sometimes used.

The ancient Chronicles of Japan (Nihon Shoki) report that on the night of April 30 in the year 670, a great blaze swept through the temple grounds, leaving "not a single building "standing. ^[3] A long controversy, ignited by the architectural historian Sekino in 1905, questioned whether the temple actually burned down at all. Excavations carried out in 1939 confirmed that Prince Shotoku's palace, the Ikaruga-no-miya (斑鳩宮), occupied the eastern part of the current temple complex, where the Tō-in (東院) sits today.^[4] Also discovered were the ruins of a temple complex which was southwest of the prince's palace and not completely within the present temple complex.^[4] The original temple, named Wakakusa-Garan (若草伽藍) by modern historians and archaeologists, was lost, and a reconstruction, slightly reoriented in a northwest position, is believed to have been completed by around 711, before the imperial court moved to Kyoto.^[5] The older temple site includes architectural remains of a Kondo and a pagoda, which are accepted as conclusive proof that the present temple is a reconstruction. There is still a debate as to whether a fire actually occurred in 670, or whether there was another reason for the reconstruction.^[6]

Four structures erected during that reconstruction, including a five-story pagoda, the chu-mon (“middle gate”), part of the enclosing rectangular corridor, and the kondo (“main hall”), have survived and are among the oldest wooden structures in the world.

The temple was repaired and reassembled in the early twelfth century, in 1374, and in 1603.^[7]

Architecture

The Chūmon (Inner Gate) with its entasis columns

The present complex

The current temple grounds occupy 187,000 square meters and are made up of two areas, the Sai-in (西院) in the west, containing the Kon do (金堂, Golden Hall) and the temple's five-story pagoda; and the Tō-in (東院) 122 meters east of the Sai-in area, arranged around the octagonal Yumedono Hall (夢殿, Hall of Dreams). The complex contains 45 buildings, including monk's quarters, lecture halls, libraries, and dining halls.

Hōryū-ji represents 14 centuries of uninterrupted observance of tradition, and the structures, which were added from the 7th through the 19th century, are considered a living history of the development of Buddhism in Japan.

Characteristics

The buildings reconstructed after the first temple burned down embrace a range of architectural influences, from Eastern Han to Northern Wei of China, and the Three Kingdoms of Korea, particularly those of Baekje^[8]The early 7th century reconstruction features a unique fusion of early Asuka period style elements with some distinct elements only found in Hōryū-ji, that were not seen again in the architecture of the following Nara period.

File:Hōryū-ji chumon architecture.jpg

The Chūmon brackets and railings

Certain features suggest that the current precinct of Hōryu-ji is not simply representative of the pure Asuka style, but combines a series of evolving styles.^[9]One of the most notable of these features is Hōryū-ji’s layout. While most Japanese temples built during the Asuka period were arranged like their Chinese and Korean prototypes, with the main gate, a pagoda, the main hall and the lecture hall on a straight line, the reconstructed Hōryū-ji broke from those patterns by arranging the Kondō and pagoda side-by-side in the courtyard.^[9]

Another variation, discovered through the excavations of the Yamada-dera, a lost temple originally dated 643, is a difference in the style of the corridor. Yamada-dera had thick horizontal poles placed close together in the windows, while those at Hōryū-ji are thinner, and spaced at larger intervals.

Major Asuka style characteristics seen in Hōryu-ji, and resembling designs found in the Yungang Grottoes (Northern Wei), are the entasis columns, and the railings, decorated with repeat-patterned Buddhist swastika (卍字崩し高欄 manji kuzushi koran), above inverted "V" shape supports (人字形割束 ninji gata warizuka). Another notable Asuka style element, found only in Japan, is a cloud-shape hybrid bracket supporter (a 組物 kumimono; (hybrid) of 雲斗 kumoto and 雲肘木 kumohijiki). The only surviving originals are in Hōryu-ji. These characteristics of Asuka style are not seen in Nara period temples.

Pagoda

the Pagoda has certain characteristics unique to Hōryū-ji

The five-story pagoda, located in the Sai-in area, stands 32.45 meters in height (122 feet) and is regarded as one of the two oldest wood buildings in the world. A dendrochronological analysis has shown that the tree used in the central pillar of the pagoda was probably felled in 594^[5]. The pillar is set three meters below the surface of the massive foundation stone, extending into the ground. Further below is a hollow for relics, containing a reliquary.^[10] Although the pagoda is five-storied, it is not designed to be ascended from the inside, but is intended to inspire people with its external view.^[11]

Kondo

The Kondō, located beside the Pagoda in Sai-in, is considered to be the other of the two oldest wood buildings extant in the world.^[9] The hall, measuring 18.5 meters by 15.2 meters, is two-storied, with roofs curved in the corners, but only the first story has a double roof (裳階 mokoshi). This was added later in the Nara period, with extra posts to hold up the original first roof, which extended more than four meters past the building.^[12] A fire, caused by a malfunctioning electric heated cushion on January 26, 1949, caused severe damage to the building, primarily to its first floor, and the murals.^[13] As a consequence of the restoration (completed in 1954), it is estimated that about fifteen to twenty percent of the original seventh century Kondo materials is left in the current building. The charred sections were carefully removed and rebuilt in a separate fireproof warehouse for future research.^[11]^[7]^[14]A dendrochronological analysis carried out on the wood salvaged from the fire revealed that some of the trees were felled prior to 670, suggesting a possibility that the current Kondō was already under construction when the fire in 670, recorded in the Nihon Shoki, burned down the former Wakakusa-Garan.^[15]

Though not large, the hall is very impressive, with its multi-layered roof, sweeping eaves, and intricately detailed second floor banister. The hall holds the famous Shaka Triad, together with bronze Yakushi and Amida Nyorai statues, and other national treasures. The wall paintings shown today in the Kondō are mounted reproductions, made in 1967 by artists copying, on white paper, large format color photographs that had been taken of the murals before the fire.

Yumedono (Hall of Dreams)

File:Hōryū-ji Yumedono0363.jpg

Yumedono, a hall associated with Prince Shōtoku

Yumedono (“Hall of Dreams,” or “Hall of Visions”), an elegant octagonal building, is one of the main constructions in the Tō-in area, built on the ground which was once Prince Shōtoku's private palace, Ikaruga no miya. The present incarnation of this hall was built in 739 to assuage the Prince's spirit. The hall acquired its present-day common name in Heian period, from a legend that says a Buddha arrived as Prince Shōtoku and meditated in a hall that existed here. The hall contains the famous Yumedono Kannon (also Guze,- Kuse-, or Guze Kannon); which is only displayed at certain times of the year.^[16] The Tō-in area also contains the Denpodo (a lecture hall), and priests' living quarters dating to the 8th century. The corridor surrounding Yumedono; the Raido (worship hall); and other buildings were rebuilt in the 13th century. ^[17]

Treasures

Hōryū-ji contains over 2,300 important cultural and historical structures and artifacts, including nearly 190 that have been designated by the Japanese government as National Treasures or Important Cultural Properties. In December of 1993, Hōryū-ji , as a unique storehouse of world Buddhist culture, became the first treasure of any kind in Japan to be selected by UNESCO as part of the World Heritage.^[18] The treasures of the temple are considered to be a time capsule of Buddhist art from the sixth and seventh century. Many of the frescoes, statues, and other pieces of art within the temple, as well as the architecture of the temple's buildings themselves, exhibit a strong cultural influence from China, Korea and India, and illustrate the cultural links among the countries of East Asia.^[19]^[20]

A large quantity of these objects were moved in the 1880s to the Horyu-ji Treasure House on the grounds of the Tokyo National Museum. In 1941, commemorating the 1,350th anniversary of the death of Shotoku, a museum was built in Ikaruga to house other works of art, religious objects, and artifacts found in the monuments of the region

The Hōryū-ji Treasure House on the grounds of the Tokyo National Museum holds over 300 objects which were donated to the Imperial Household by Hōryu-ji in 1878. Some of these items are on public display, and all are available for study as part of the museum's digital collection.^[21]

Murals

The murals of Kondō comprise fifty walls; four larger walls, eight mid-sized walls and thirty-eight small wall areas inside the building. The original murals were removed after the fire incident in 1949, and are kept in a treasure house that is not open to the public. Twenty small wall paintings that escaped the 1949 fire, are in their original places, and reproductions have replaced the damaged murals that were removed.

It is generally believed that the paintings on the large walls represent the Pure Land (浄土　jodo) with Shaka, Amida, Miroku and Yakushi Nyorai Bhuddas. Some of the features and clothing in the paintings bear similarities with murals found in the Ajanta Caves (India) or in Dunhuang (China). Tang and Indian influences can be observed in the Bosatsu and Kannon painted alongside the Amida.

Based on the evidence of early Tang influences, present-day consensus is that these paintings were created at the end of 7th century. This rules out the possibility that they were painted by the early 7th century figures who were once believed to be their creators, such as Tori or Doncho (a Goguryeo monk Tamjing, who lived in Ikaruga). No person is clearly credited as the painter of these works.^[12]^[22]^[23]

Kudara Kannon

Replica of Kudara Kannon in the British Museum.

The Kudara Kannon is a statue of Kannon, 210 centimeters in height, made of gilded camphor wood^[24] and shouldering a halo. The slender, graceful statue is unique in Japanese art,^[25] and is regarded as one of the most important works of Buddhist art from ancient Japan.

The statue is very thin, creating the illusion of height. “Kudara” was the Japanese name for the Baekje Kingdom. The statue was first described in a text written in 1698, although its origin is still unknown. Its name was given in the Meiji period, because its style resembled traditional Korean statues; prior to this the statue was called Kokuzo Bosatsu (Akasagarbha|). Some art critics believe it to be a Korean creation^[26]and another source suggests that the statue was carved in Japan.^[24] Japanese art historians believe that the statue was carved in late 7th century and influenced by the Southern Dynasties style.

Yakushi Nyorai

The statue of Yakushi Nyorai (Buddha of Healing) to which the original temple was dedicated, was saved during the fire of 670.^[27] While the temple was being rebuilt, the Shaka Triad was commissioned or had been already cast.

Yumedono (Guze) Kannon

This Kannon is supposedly a representation of Prince Shotoku. It is 197 centimeters (6 feet, 1 inch) in height, and some sources believe that was the height of Prince Shotoku. ^[24] The kannon is made of gilded wood. It is suggested that the statue was made to assuage the dead prince's spirit, based on the fact that the halo was attached to the statue by a nail driven through the head. The statue bears a close resemblance to extant portraiture of the prince.

The Kannon retains most of its gilt. It is in superb condition because it was kept in the Dream Hall, wrapped in five hundred meters of cloth, and never viewed in sunlight. The statue was considered sacred, and was never seen until it was unwrapped at the demand of Ernest Fenollosa (later a curator at the Boston Museum), who had been charged by the Japanese government to catalogue the art of the state. ^[25] Art historians suggest that this figure is based on the Tori style. ^[24]

Shaka Triad

The Kondō is dominated by the Shaka Triad, a statue of Gautama Buddha (Sakyamuni), attended by two Bodhisattvas, Bhaisajyaguru to his right and Amitābha to his left.

Tori Busshi is credited with the casting of this massive bronze Buddhist statue, dedicated to Prince Shotoku, in 623. The style has its origins in the art of Northern Wei.^[24] The style of the statue, also known as Tori style, is characterized by the two-dimensionality of the figure and the repetitive pattern-like depictions of the cloth the triad sits upon.^[24]The two Boddhistvas still bear some of the original gold leaf. ^[28]

The Yakushi Nyorai (Buddha of Healing) stands to the right of the Shaka Triad, and on its left is Amida Buddha, commemorating Prince Shotoku’s mother. At each corner of the platform stands a statue of one of the Four Heavenly Kings (Shitennō), carved of camphor wood at the end of the Asuka period (538 – 710). They are the oldest examples of Shitennō statues in Japan.^[29]

Relationship with Baekje

The Chronicles of Japan records the arrival of a carpenter and a Buddhist sculptor in Japan in 577, along with monks from the Baekje kingdom of Korea. These artisans are recorded to have been stationed in Naniwa, or present-day Osaka, where the Shitennō-ji was built.^[30]There is no record of exactly who the builders of the Hōryu-ji were, although The Chronicles records the existence of 46 temples in 624.^[6]

The bracket work of Hōryū-ji resembles that on the remaining portion of a miniature Baekje gilt bronze pagoda.^[31] Since there is no extant architecture from the same period in Korea, and Hōryu-ji is the only wooden structure to have survived from that time, it may offer insights into what 7th century Baekje temples looked like. The Korean book Samguk Sagi (Chronicles of the Three Kingdoms), chronicling the affairs of Baekje, records that Prince Shotoku commissioned Baekje craftsmen to create the Yakushi, as an offering to ensure the recovery of his father from an illness.

Hōryū-ji Statue0321.jpg

Statue of guardian god at Hōryū-ji
Reido
The way to the saiendo
Hōryū-ji Grounds0311Print.jpg

The Horyu-ji complex

Notes

↑ Buddhist Monuments in the Horyu-ji Area, UNESCO World Heritage. Retrieved 2007-04-02.
↑ ^2.0 ^2.1 June Kinoshita, Nicholas Palevsky (1998). Gateway to Japan, "A Japanese Prince and his temple". Kodansha International. Retrieved 2007-04-02.
↑ Hōryū-ji .or .or.jp/Hōryū-ji _e.htm Japan’s First World Cultural Heritage Retrieved July 15, 2008
↑ ^4.0 ^4.1 John Whitney Hall (1988). The Cambridge history of Japan "The Asuka Enlightenment" p.175. Cambridge University. Retrieved 2008-07-15.
↑ ^5.0 ^5.1 Web Japan, sponsored by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Japan. One hundred years older than supposed?: World Heritage Pagoda. Retrieved 2008-07-15.
↑ ^6.0 ^6.1 Ryōshin Takada 高田良信 (2007). sekai bunka isan Hōryū-ji o kataru 世界文化遺産法隆寺を語る　(Hōryū-ji , a World Heritage described). Yanagihara Shuppan 柳原出版, 34-37. Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name "978-4-8409-5016-9" defined multiple times with different content
↑ ^7.0 ^7.1 Marstein, Nils and Knut Einar Larsen (2000). Conservation of Historic Timber Structures: an ecological approach[1]. Elsevier, 22. ISBN 0750634340 Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name "ISBN0750634340" defined multiple times with different content
↑ index.htm Oriental Architecture Retrieved July 15, 2008.
↑ ^9.0 ^9.1 ^9.2 Banister Fletcher, Sir, Dan (EDT) Cruickshank (1996). &sig=Se-8aUtgnkPUuhEru_R7HxYp4qE Banister Fletcher's A History of Architecture, p731. Architectural Press. Retrieved 2007-04-03.
↑ Ryōshin Takada 高田良信 (2007). sekai bunka isan Hōryū-ji o kataru 世界文化遺産法隆寺を語る　(Hōryū-ji , a World Heritage described). Yanagihara Shuppan 柳原出版, 185-190. The reliquary was briefly salvaged from the hollow, then replaced during a reconstruction of the pagoda for reconditioning in the 1950s.
↑ ^11.0 ^11.1 Seiroku Noma (2003). The Arts of Japan, p40. John Rosenfeld (Trans.). Kodansha International. Retrieved 2007-04-03.
↑ ^12.0 ^12.1 ISBN0195088913 p20. Retrieved July 15, 2008.
↑ f/Hōryū-ji e.html Fire Disaster of Hōryū-ji Reiji Yamashina, Retrieved July 15, 2008.
↑ Niels Gutschow, Siegfried RCT Enders (1998). Hozon: architectural and urban conservation in Japan, p48. Edition Axel Menges. Retrieved 2007-04-03.
↑ "Find rekindles debate over Hōryū-ji Temple", The Japan Times Ltd., 2004-07-20. Retrieved 2007-04-04.
↑ Usually in spring and autumn, for about a month period each.
↑ The Yamasa Institute andchoguji.html Hōryū-ji and Chuguji Japan Travel Guide. Retrieved July 15, 2008
↑ .or.jp/Hōryū-ji _e.htm Retrieved July 15, 2008
↑ The Archeology of Korea and Cultural Features. Retrieved 2008-07-15.
↑ John Whitney Hall (1988). The Cambridge history of Japan "The Asuka Enlightenment" p.176. Cambridge University. Retrieved 2007-04-03.
↑ Tokyo National Museum ...gallery of Hōryu-ji Treasures at Toyko National Museum Retrieved July 15, 2008.
↑ James Huntley Grayson (2002). Korea: A Religious History "Early Korea" p36. Routledge. Retrieved 2007-04-03.
↑ Takada, Ryoshin (1998). Horyu-ji no nazo 法隆寺の謎 Mysteries of Horyu-ji. Shogakukan, pp. 131-132. ISBN 4-09-387265-1.
↑ ^24.0 ^24.1 ^24.2 ^24.3 ^24.4 ^24.5 Tsuneko S. Sadao, Stephanie Wada (2003). Discovering the Arts of Japan: A Historical Overview, p42-44. Kodansha International. Retrieved 2007-04-03. Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name "ISBN477002939X" defined multiple times with different content
↑ ^25.0 ^25.1 Kinoshita, June and Nicholas Palevsky (1998). Gateway to Japan. Kodansha, pp. 587-588. ISBN 477002018X.
↑ Chatfield Pier, Garrett (2005). Temple Treasures of Japan[2]. Kessinger Publishing, p.15. ISBN 141796569X. Retrieved 2007-04-03.
↑ Robert Treat Paine (1981). &sig=sAXpZvB2RN8cVWVCZlrWkhS4jJI The Art and Architecture of Japan , p300. Yale University Press. Retrieved 2007-04-03.
↑ The Yamasa Institute andchoguji.html Hōryū-ji and Chuguji Japan Travel Guide. Retrieved July 15, 2008
↑ (2007) Hōryūji　(tourist brochure). Kyoto, Japan: Benrido Co., Ltd., pp. 11-12.
↑ index.htm Asian Historical Architecture, Hōryū-ji Temple. Retrieved 2007-04-02.
↑ Shin Young-hoon. Audio/Slide Program for Use in Korean Studies, ARCHITECTURE, Indiana University. Indiana University. Retrieved 2008-07-15.

References
ISBN links support NWE through referral fees

Davis Digital Images. 2003. Japanese Architecture. Worcester, Mass: Davis Digital Images.
Hōryūji (Ikaruga-chō, Nara-ken, Japan). 1936. The frescoe paintings of the Hōryū-ji monastery. [Ikaruga, Nara Pref.]: Hōryū-ji.
Kidder, J. Edward. 1999. The lucky seventh: early Horyu-ji and its time. Tokyo, Japan: International Christian University, Hachiro Yuasa Memorial Museum.
Kuno, Takeshi. 1964. Ancient sculpture in the Hōryū-ji. Tokyo: Chuo-Koron Bijutsu Shuppan.
Kurata, Bunsaku. 1981. Hōryū-ji, temple of the exalted law: early Buddhist art from Japan. [New York]: Japan Society.
Mizuno, Seiichi. 1974. Asuka Buddhist art: Horyu-ji. The Heibonsha survey of Japanese art, v. 4. New York: Weatherhill. ISBN:0834810204 9780834810204
Vecchia, Stefano. 2007. Japanese art: [masterpieces in painting, sculpture and architecture]. New York: Barnes & Noble. ISBN:0760788847 9780760788844
Yoshioka, Tsuneo, and Noriko Tomita. 1986. Shōsō-in and Hōryū-ji gire: 7th and 8th century textiles from Shōsō-in and Hōryū-ji. Kyoto, Japan: Takashi Yanagi.

External links

All links retrieved July 15, 2008-07-17

.or.jp/Hōryū-ji _e.htm Hōryū-ji
Travel guide to Hōryū-ji from Wikitravel

Maps and aerial photos Coordinates: 34.614275° 135.734236°
Japan Mint: Hōryū-ji Temple Silver Medallion

[WHH.C5.8Dry.C5.AB-ji-1] Buddhist Monuments in the Horyu-ji Area, UNESCO World Heritage. Retrieved 2007-04-02.

[GW2JPN-2] 2.0 ^2.1 June Kinoshita, Nicholas Palevsky (1998). Gateway to Japan, "A Japanese Prince and his temple". Kodansha International. Retrieved 2007-04-02.

[3] Hōryū-ji .or .or.jp/Hōryū-ji _e.htm Japan’s First World Cultural Heritage Retrieved July 15, 2008

[ISBN0521223520-4] 4.0 ^4.1 John Whitney Hall (1988). The Cambridge history of Japan "The Asuka Enlightenment" p.175. Cambridge University. Retrieved 2008-07-15.

[100years-5] 5.0 ^5.1 Web Japan, sponsored by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Japan. One hundred years older than supposed?: World Heritage Pagoda. Retrieved 2008-07-15.

[978-4-8409-5016-9-6] 6.0 ^6.1 Ryōshin Takada 高田良信 (2007). sekai bunka isan Hōryū-ji o kataru 世界文化遺産法隆寺を語る　(Hōryū-ji , a World Heritage described). Yanagihara Shuppan 柳原出版, 34-37. Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name "978-4-8409-5016-9" defined multiple times with different content

[ISBN0750634340-7] 7.0 ^7.1 Marstein, Nils and Knut Einar Larsen (2000). Conservation of Historic Timber Structures: an ecological approach[1]. Elsevier, 22. ISBN 0750634340 Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name "ISBN0750634340" defined multiple times with different content

[8] x.htm Oriental Architecture Retrieved July 15, 2008.

[ISBN0750622679-9] 9.0 ^9.1 ^9.2 Banister Fletcher, Sir, Dan (EDT) Cruickshank (1996). &sig=Se-8aUtgnkPUuhEru_R7HxYp4qE Banister Fletcher's A History of Architecture, p731. Architectural Press. Retrieved 2007-04-03.

[10] Ryōshin Takada 高田良信 (2007). sekai bunka isan Hōryū-ji o kataru 世界文化遺産法隆寺を語る　(Hōryū-ji , a World Heritage described). Yanagihara Shuppan 柳原出版, 185-190. The reliquary was briefly salvaged from the hollow, then replaced during a reconstruction of the pagoda for reconditioning in the 1950s.

[ISBN4770029772-11] 11.0 ^11.1 Seiroku Noma (2003). The Arts of Japan, p40. John Rosenfeld (Trans.). Kodansha International. Retrieved 2007-04-03.

[ISBN0195088913-12] 12.0 ^12.1 ISBN0195088913 p20. Retrieved July 15, 2008.

[13] /Hōryū-ji e.html Fire Disaster of Hōryū-ji Reiji Yamashina, Retrieved July 15, 2008.

[ISBN3930698986-14] Niels Gutschow, Siegfried RCT Enders (1998). Hozon: architectural and urban conservation in Japan, p48. Edition Axel Menges. Retrieved 2007-04-03.

[15] "Find rekindles debate over Hōryū-ji Temple", The Japan Times Ltd., 2004-07-20. Retrieved 2007-04-04.

[16] Usually in spring and autumn, for about a month period each.

[17] The Yamasa Institute andchoguji.html Hōryū-ji and Chuguji Japan Travel Guide. Retrieved July 15, 2008

[18] .or.jp/Hōryū-ji _e.htm Retrieved July 15, 2008

[19] The Archeology of Korea and Cultural Features. Retrieved 2008-07-15.

[ISBN0521223520_2-20] John Whitney Hall (1988). The Cambridge history of Japan "The Asuka Enlightenment" p.176. Cambridge University. Retrieved 2007-04-03.

[21] Tokyo National Museum ...gallery of Hōryu-ji Treasures at Toyko National Museum Retrieved July 15, 2008.

[KoreaReligious-22] James Huntley Grayson (2002). Korea: A Religious History "Early Korea" p36. Routledge. Retrieved 2007-04-03.

[23] Takada, Ryoshin (1998). Horyu-ji no nazo 法隆寺の謎 Mysteries of Horyu-ji. Shogakukan, pp. 131-132. ISBN 4-09-387265-1.

[ISBN477002939X-24] 24.0 ^24.1 ^24.2 ^24.3 ^24.4 ^24.5 Tsuneko S. Sadao, Stephanie Wada (2003). Discovering the Arts of Japan: A Historical Overview, p42-44. Kodansha International. Retrieved 2007-04-03. Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name "ISBN477002939X" defined multiple times with different content

[ISBN477002018Xp587-25] 25.0 ^25.1 Kinoshita, June and Nicholas Palevsky (1998). Gateway to Japan. Kodansha, pp. 587-588. ISBN 477002018X.

[ISBN141796569X-26] Chatfield Pier, Garrett (2005). Temple Treasures of Japan[2]. Kessinger Publishing, p.15. ISBN 141796569X. Retrieved 2007-04-03.

[ISBN0300053339-27] Robert Treat Paine (1981). &sig=sAXpZvB2RN8cVWVCZlrWkhS4jJI The Art and Architecture of Japan , p300. Yale University Press. Retrieved 2007-04-03.

[28] The Yamasa Institute andchoguji.html Hōryū-ji and Chuguji Japan Travel Guide. Retrieved July 15, 2008

[29] (2007) Hōryūji　(tourist brochure). Kyoto, Japan: Benrido Co., Ltd., pp. 11-12.

[30] x.htm Asian Historical Architecture, Hōryū-ji Temple. Retrieved 2007-04-02.

[Indiana-31] Shin Young-hoon. Audio/Slide Program for Use in Korean Studies, ARCHITECTURE, Indiana University. Indiana University. Retrieved 2008-07-15.

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 | Link        = http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/660
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-'''{{nihongo|Hōryū-ji|法隆寺|lit. Temple of the Flourishing Law}}''' is a [[Buddhism|Buddhist]] temple in [[Ikaruga, Nara|Ikaruga]], [[Nara Prefecture]], [[Japan]].  Its full name is ''Hōryū Gakumonji'' (法隆学問寺), or Learning Temple of the Flourishing Law, named as such because the site serves as a seminary as well as a monastery.  The temple is widely acknowledged to have some of the oldest wooden buildings existing in the world, and is one of the most celebrated temples in Japan.<ref name="WHHoryuji">{{Cite web|url=http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/660|title=Buddhist Monuments in the Horyu-ji Area, UNESCO World Heritage|accessdate=2007-04-02}}</ref><ref name="GW2JPN">{{Cite web|url=http://books.google.com/books?vid=ISBN477002018X&id=D7_MSioiABQC&pg=PA47&lpg=PA47&dq=horyu+ji&sig=rCzslyeVelQqIdoGPlEuJDDhxzU|title=Gateway to Japan, "A Japanese Prince and his temple"|accessdate=2007-04-02|publisher=Kodansha International|year=1998|author=June Kinoshita, Nicholas Palevsky}}</ref>  In [[1993]], Hōryū-ji was inscribed as a [[United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization|UNESCO]] [[World Heritage Site]] and the Japanese government lists it as a [[National Treasure (Japan)|National Treasure]].
+'''Hōryū-ji| (法隆寺; Temple of the Flourishing Law)''' is a [[Buddhism|Buddhist]] temple in [[Ikaruga, Nara|Ikaruga]], [[Nara Prefecture]], [[Japan]].  Its full name is ''Hōryū Gakumonji'' (法隆学問寺), or “Learning Temple of the Flourishing Law,” because the site serves as a seminary as well as a monastery.  The temple is widely acknowledged to have some of the oldest wooden buildings in the world, and is one of the most celebrated temples in Japan.<ref name="WHHōryū-ji ">{{Cite web|url=http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/660|title=Buddhist Monuments in the Horyu-ji Area, UNESCO World Heritage|accessdate=2007-04-02}}</ref><ref name="GW2JPN">{{Cite web|url=http://books.google.com/books?vid=ISBN477002018X&id=D7_MSioiABQC&pg=PA47&lpg=PA47&dq=horyu+ji&sig=rCzslyeVelQqIdoGPlEuJDDhxzU|title=Gateway to Japan, "A Japanese Prince and his temple"|accessdate=2007-04-02|publisher=Kodansha International|year=1998|author=June Kinoshita, Nicholas Palevsky}}</ref> Hōryū-ji was originally built in 607 by Empress Suiko and Crown Prince Shotoku, to fulfill a vow made by Emperor Yomei during his final illness. A fire in 670 destroyed the original buildings, but a reconstruction was completed in 711 and new structures were continually added to the temple through the 19th century. Hōryū-ji  represents 14 centuries of uninterrupted observance of Buddhist tradition, and is considered a living history of the development of Buddhism in Japan.
+Hōryū-ji  contains over 2,300 important cultural and historical structures, art treasures and artifacts.  In [[1993]], Hōryū-ji was one of 48 Buddhist monuments designated a [[United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization|UNESCO]] [[World Heritage Site]]. Many of the temple’s 45 buildings are listed as National Treasures by the Japanese government.
 == History ==
-[[Image:HoryujiGate0308.jpg|thumb|right|250px|The Gate]]
+[[Image:Hōryū-ji Gate0308.jpg|thumb|right|250px|The Gate]]
-The temple was originally commissioned by [[Prince Shotoku]]; at the time it was called "Ikaruga-dera"(斑鳩寺), a name that is still sometimes used. This first temple is believed to have been completed by 607. Hōryū-ji was dedicated to [[Bhaisajyaguru|Yakushi Nyorai]], the [[Buddhahood|Buddha]] of healing and in honor of the prince's father.<ref name="GW2JPN"/> Excavations done in 1939 confirmed that Prince Shotoku's palace, the Ikaruga-no-miya (斑鳩宮), occupied the eastern part of the current temple complex, where the Tō-in (東院) sits today.<ref name="ISBN0521223520">{{Cite web|url=http://books.google.com/books?vid=ISBN0521223520&id=x5mwgfPXK1kC&pg=PA175&lpg=PA175&dq=horyu+ji&sig=By1En3KeXjbvBKO1vuggU7mU0Lo|title=The Cambridge history of Japan "The Asuka Enlightenment" p.175|accessdate=2007-04-03|publisher=Cambridge University|year=1988|author=John Whitney Hall}}</ref> Also discovered were the ruins of a temple complex which was southwest of the prince's palace and not completely within the present temple complex.<ref name="ISBN0521223520"/> The original temple, named by modern historians and archaeologists Wakakusa-Garan (若草伽藍), was lost, probably burned to the ground 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.<ref name="100years">{{cite web
+The story of Hōryū-ji 's founding is inscribed on the back of the halo of the Yakusi Nyorai Buddha statue, located in the temple's Main Hall, and recorded in an official inventory of Hōryū-ji  property prepared in 747. According to these records, shortly before his death in 587, the emperor Yomei made a vow to build a temple and an image of the Buddha as a prayer for his recovery from an illness. In 607, his sister, Empress Suiko, and his son, Crown Prince Shotoku fulfilled Emperor Yomei's deathbed vow by building a temple and erecting a statue of a Buddha, the Yakusi Nyorai (Bhaisajyaguru; literally, "arrival as a healer") to which it was dedicated. <ref name="GW2JPN"/> The temple was named "Ikaruga-dera" (斑鳩寺) for the site where it was located, a name that is still sometimes used.
+The ancient Chronicles of Japan (Nihon Shoki) report that on the night of April 30 in the year 670, a great blaze swept through the temple grounds, leaving "not a single building "standing. <ref>Hōryū-ji .or  [http://www.Hōryū-ji .or.jp/Hōryū-ji _e.htm  Japan’s First World Cultural Heritage] Retrieved July 15, 2008</ref>
+A long controversy, ignited by the architectural historian Sekino in 1905, questioned whether the temple actually burned down at all. Excavations carried out in 1939 confirmed that Prince Shotoku's palace, the Ikaruga-no-miya (斑鳩宮), occupied the eastern part of the current temple complex, where the Tō-in (東院) sits today.<ref name="ISBN0521223520">{{Cite web|url=http://books.google.com/books?vid=ISBN0521223520&id=x5mwgfPXK1kC&pg=PA175&lpg=PA175&dq=horyu+ji&sig=By1En3KeXjbvBKO1vuggU7mU0Lo|title=The Cambridge history of Japan "The Asuka Enlightenment" p.175|accessdate=2008-07-15|publisher=Cambridge University|year=1988|author=John Whitney Hall}}</ref> Also discovered were the ruins of a temple complex which was southwest of the prince's palace and not completely within the present temple complex.<ref name="ISBN0521223520"/> The original temple, named Wakakusa-Garan (若草伽藍) by modern historians and archaeologists, was lost, and a reconstruction, slightly reoriented in a northwest position, is believed to have been completed by around 711, before the imperial court moved to Kyoto.<ref name="100years">{{cite web
    | last = Web Japan
    | first = sponsored by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Japan
    | title = One hundred years older than supposed?: World Heritage Pagoda
    | url=http://web-japan.org/trends00/honbun/tj010330.html
-   | accessdate = 2007-04-04 }}</ref> The temple has been repaired and reassembled in the early twelfth century, in 1374, and 1603.<ref name="ISBN0750634340">{{cite book | title=Conservation of Historic Timber Structures: an ecological approach[http://books.google.com/books?vid=ISBN0750634340&id=wVk7s0W8IT8C&pg=PA22&lpg=PA20&dq=horyu+ji&sig=9BaILwCHspQcsoUcYN5Cf8CYE9E]| last=Marstein| first=Nils| coauthors=Knut Einar Larsen| date=2000| pages=22| publisher=Elsevier}}ISBN 0750634340</ref>
+   | accessdate = 2008-07-15 }}</ref> The older temple site includes architectural remains of a Kondo and a pagoda, which are accepted as conclusive proof that the present temple is a reconstruction. There is still a debate as to whether a fire actually occurred in 670, or whether there was another reason for the reconstruction.<ref name="978-4-8409-5016-9">{{cite book | title=''sekai bunka isan Hōryū-ji  o kataru'' 世界文化遺産法隆寺を語る　(Hōryū-ji , a World Heritage described)| last=Ryōshin Takada 高田良信| date=2007| pages=34-37| publisher=Yanagihara Shuppan 柳原出版}}</ref>
-=== Reconstruction controversy ===
+Four structures erected during that reconstruction, including a five-story pagoda, the chu-mon (“middle gate”), part of the enclosing rectangular corridor, and the kondo (“main hall”), have survived and are among the oldest wooden structures in the world.
-After the long controversy ignited by architecture historian Sekino in 1905, the majority consensus view as of 2006 is that the current precinct is a reconstruction. The excavations in 1939 that uncovered the older temple site including architectural remains of a Kondo and a pagoda, are accepted as conclusive proof. The original complex, Wakakusa-Garan, probably burned down, but there is still a debate as to whether a fire actually occurred in 670, as recorded on ''[[Nihon Shoki|the Chronicles]]'', or whether there was another reason.<ref name="978-4-8409-5016-9">{{cite book | title=''sekai bunka isan Horyuji o kataru'' 世界文化遺産法隆寺を語る　(Horyuji, a World Heritage described)| last=Ryōshin Takada 高田良信| date=2007| pages=34-37| publisher=Yanagihara Shuppan 柳原出版}}</ref>
+The temple was repaired and reassembled in the early twelfth century, in 1374, and in 1603.<ref name="ISBN0750634340">{{cite book | title=Conservation of Historic Timber Structures: an ecological approach[http://books.google.com/books?vid=ISBN0750634340&id=wVk7s0W8IT8C&pg=PA22&lpg=PA20&dq=horyu+ji&sig=9BaILwCHspQcsoUcYN5Cf8CYE9E]| last=Marstein| first=Nils| coauthors=Knut Einar Larsen| date=2000| pages=22| publisher=Elsevier}}ISBN 0750634340</ref>
 == Architecture ==
 [[Image:Houryu-ji chumon.JPG|thumb|right|The Chūmon (Inner Gate) with its entasis columns]]
 === The present complex ===
-The current temple is made up of two areas, the Sai-in (西院) in the west and the Tō-in (東院) in the east. The western part of the temple contains the Kondo (金堂, Golden Hall) and the temple's five-story pagoda.  The Tō-in area holds the octagonal Yumedono Hall (夢殿, Hall of Dreams) and sits 122 meters east of the Sai-in area. The complex also contains monk's quarters, lecture halls, libraries, and dining halls.
+The current temple grounds occupy 187,000 square meters and are made up of two areas, the Sai-in (西院) in the west, containing the Kon do (金堂, Golden Hall) and the temple's five-story pagoda; and the Tō-in (東院) 122 meters east of the Sai-in area,  arranged around the octagonal Yumedono Hall (夢殿, Hall of Dreams). The complex contains 45 buildings, including monk's quarters, lecture halls, libraries, and dining halls.
+Hōryū-ji  represents 14 centuries of uninterrupted observance of tradition, and the structures, which were added from the 7th through the 19th century, are considered a living history of the development of Buddhism in Japan.
 === Characteristics ===
-The reconstructed buildings embraces the architectural influences ranging from [[Eastern Han]] to [[Northern Wei]] of China, as well as from the [[Three Kingdoms of Korea]], particularly those of [[Baekje]][http://www.orientalarchitecture.com/nara/horyujiindex.htm]. With its origin dating back to early 7th century, the reconstruction has allowed Hōryū-ji to absorb and feature a unique fusion of early Asuka period style elements, added with some distinct ones only seen in Hōryū-ji, that were not found again in the architecture of the following Nara period.
+The buildings reconstructed  after the first temple burned down embrace a range of architectural influences, from [[Eastern Han]] to [[Northern Wei]] of China, and the [[Three Kingdoms of Korea]], particularly those of [[Baekje]]<ref> [http://www.orientalarchitecture.com/nara/Hōryū-ji index.htm  Oriental Architecture] Retrieved July 15, 2008. </ref>The early 7th century reconstruction features a unique fusion of early Asuka period style elements with some distinct elements only found in Hōryū-ji, that were not seen again in the architecture of the following Nara period.
-[[Image:Horyuji chumon architecture.jpg|thumb|right|The Chūmon brackets and railings]]
+[[Image:Hōryū-ji  chumon architecture.jpg|thumb|right|The Chūmon brackets and railings]]
-There are certain features that suggest the current precinct of Hōryu-ji is not simply representative of the pure Asuka style.<ref name="ISBN0750622679">{{Cite web|url=http://books.google.com/books?vid=ISBN0750622679&id=Gt1jTpXAThwC&pg=PA731&lpg=PA731&dq=horyuji&sig=Se-8aUtgnkPUuhEru_R7HxYp4qE|title=Banister Fletcher's A History of Architecture, p731|accessdate=2007-04-03|publisher=Architectural Press|year=1996|author=Banister Fletcher, Sir, Dan (EDT) Cruickshank}}</ref>
+Certain features suggest that the current precinct of Hōryu-ji is not simply representative of the pure Asuka style, but combines a series of evolving styles.<ref name="ISBN0750622679">{{Cite web|url=http://books.google.com/books?vid=ISBN0750622679&id=Gt1jTpXAThwC&pg=PA731&lpg=PA731&dq=Hōryū-ji &sig=Se-8aUtgnkPUuhEru_R7HxYp4qE|title=Banister Fletcher's A History of Architecture, p731|accessdate=2007-04-03|publisher=Architectural Press|year=1996|author=Banister Fletcher, Sir, Dan (EDT) Cruickshank}}</ref>One of the most notable of these features is Hōryū-ji’s layout. While most Japanese temples built during the Asuka period were arranged like their Chinese and Korean prototypes, with the main gate, a pagoda, the main hall and the lecture hall on a straight line, the reconstructed Hōryū-ji broke from those patterns by arranging the Kondō and pagoda side-by-side in the courtyard.<ref name="ISBN0750622679"/>
-One of the most notable is its layout. While most Japanese temples built during the Asuka period were arranged like their Chinese and Korean prototypes—the main gate, a pagoda, the main hall and the lecture hall on a straight line—the reconstructed Hōryū-ji breaks from those patterns by arranging the Kondō and pagoda side-by-side in the courtyard.<ref name="ISBN0750622679"/>
+Another variation, discovered through the excavations of the Yamada-dera, a lost temple originally dated 643, is a difference in the style of the corridor. Yamada-dera had thick horizontal poles placed close together in the windows, while those at Hōryū-ji are thinner, and spaced at larger intervals.
-Another example found through the excavations at Yamada-dera, a lost temple originally dated 643, is the difference in the style of the corridor. Whereas Yamada-dera had thicker horizontal poles placed much more densely in the windows, those at Hōryū-ji are thinner, and placed at larger intervals.
+Major Asuka style characteristics seen in Hōryu-ji, and resembling designs found in the [[Yungang Grottoes]] (Northern Wei), are the [[entasis]] columns, and the railings, decorated with repeat-patterned Buddhist [[swastika]] (卍字崩し高欄 ''manji kuzushi koran''), above inverted "V" shape supports (人字形割束 ''ninji gata warizuka''). Another notable Asuka style element, found only in Japan, is a cloud-shape hybrid bracket supporter (a 組物 ''kumimono;'' (hybrid) of 雲斗 ''kumoto'' and 雲肘木 ''kumohijiki''). The only surviving originals are in Hōryu-ji. These characteristics of Asuka style are not seen in Nara period temples.
-On the other hand, major Asuka style characteristics seen in Hōryu-ji, and resembling designs found in the [[Yungang Grottoes]] (Northern Wei) are:
-* the railings, decorated with repeat-patterned [[swastika]] (卍字崩し高欄 ''manji kuzushi koran''), and placed below are the inverted "V" shape support (人字形割束 ''ninji gata warizuka'')
-* the [[entasis]] columns
-The other notable Asuka style element that is only found in Japan to-date, and with the only surviving originals in Hōryu-ji is:
-* the cloud-shape hybrid bracket supporter (a 組物 ''kumimono'' (hybrid) of 雲斗 ''kumoto'' and 雲肘木 ''kumohijiki'')
-These Asuka characteristics are not seen in Nara period temples.
 === Pagoda ===
 [[Image:Horyu-ji09s3200.jpg|thumb|right|the Pagoda has certain characteristics unique to Hōryū-ji]]
-The five-story pagoda, located in Sai-in area, stands at 32.45 meters in height (122 feet) and is widely regarded as one of the two oldest wood buildings in the world. The wood used in the center pillar of the pagoda is estimated to have been felled in 594, found through a dendrochronological analysis.<ref name="100years"/> The pillar is set three meters below the surface of the massive foundation stone, stretching into the ground. Further below is a hollow for relics, where a reliquary is placed.<ref>{{cite book | title=''sekai bunka isan Horyuji o kataru'' 世界文化遺産法隆寺を語る　(Horyuji, a World Heritage described)| last=Ryōshin Takada 高田良信| date=2007| pages=185-190| publisher=Yanagihara Shuppan 柳原出版}} The reliquary was shortly salvaged from the hollow, then placed back during the reconstruction of the pagoda in the 1950s, for the purpose of reconditioning.</ref> Although the pagoda is five-storied, it does not function as such to allow one to climb up inside but it is rather designed to inspire people with its external view.<ref name="ISBN4770029772">{{Cite web|url=http://books.google.com/books?vid=ISBN4770029772&id=RfswGk-C0ykC&pg=RA3-PA40&lpg=RA3-PA40&dq=horyu+ji&sig=azV2EbBEiX5K0MtY4Sx_mNEibks|title=The Arts of Japan, p40|accessdate=2007-04-03|publisher=Kodansha International|year=2003|author=Seiroku Noma|work=John Rosenfeld (Trans.)}}</ref>
+The five-story [[pagoda]], located in the Sai-in area, stands 32.45 meters in height (122 feet) and is regarded as one of the two oldest wood buildings in the world. A dendrochronological analysis has shown that the tree used in the central pillar of the pagoda was probably felled in 594<ref name="100years"/>. The pillar is set three meters below the surface of the massive foundation stone, extending into the ground. Further below is a hollow for relics, containing a reliquary.<ref>{{cite book | title=''sekai bunka isan Hōryū-ji  o kataru'' 世界文化遺産法隆寺を語る　(Hōryū-ji , a World Heritage described)| last=Ryōshin Takada 高田良信| date=2007| pages=185-190| publisher=Yanagihara Shuppan 柳原出版}} The reliquary was briefly salvaged from the hollow, then replaced during a reconstruction of the pagoda for reconditioning in the 1950s.</ref> Although the pagoda is five-storied, it is not designed to be ascended from the inside, but is intended to inspire people with its external view.<ref name="ISBN4770029772">{{Cite web|url=http://books.google.com/books?vid=ISBN4770029772&id=RfswGk-C0ykC&pg=RA3-PA40&lpg=RA3-PA40&dq=horyu+ji&sig=azV2EbBEiX5K0MtY4Sx_mNEibks|title=The Arts of Japan, p40|accessdate=2007-04-03|publisher=Kodansha International|year=2003|author=Seiroku Noma|work=John Rosenfeld (Trans.)}}</ref>
 === Kondo ===
-The Kondō, located side-by-side to the Pagoda in Sai-in, is widely regarded as the other oldest wood building extant in the world. The hall measures 18.5 meters by 15.2 meters.<ref name="ISBN0750622679"/> The hall is two storied, with roofs curved in the corners but only the first story has a double roof (裳階 ''mokoshi''). This was added later in the Nara period with extra posts to hold up the original first roof because it extended more than four meters past the building.<ref name="ISBN0195088913">{{Cite web|url=http://books.google.com/books?vid=ISBN0195088913&id=cSxV9fhu-CYC&pg=PA20&lpg=PA20&dq=horyu+ji&sig=_xOG-470aiJaLfPxkKceoaKgdus|title=ISBN0195088913 p20|accessdate= }} Not retrievable on the web as of April 2nd, 2007</ref>
+The Kondō, located beside the Pagoda in Sai-in, is considered to be the other of the two oldest wood buildings extant in the world.<ref name="ISBN0750622679"/> The hall, measuring 18.5 meters by 15.2 meters, is two-storied, with roofs curved in the corners, but only the first story has a double roof (裳階 ''mokoshi''). This was added later in the Nara period, with extra posts to hold up the original first roof, which extended more than four meters past the building.<ref name="ISBN0195088913">{{Cite web|url=http://books.google.com/books?vid=ISBN0195088913&id=cSxV9fhu-CYC&pg=PA20&lpg=PA20&dq=horyu+ji&sig=_xOG-470aiJaLfPxkKceoaKgdus|title=ISBN0195088913 p20|accessdate= }} Retrieved July 15, 2008.</ref>
+A fire, caused by a malfunctioning electric heated cushion on January 26, 1949, caused severe damage to the building, primarily to its first floor, and the murals.<ref> [http://reijiy.hp.infoseek.co.jp/Hōryū-ji f/Hōryū-ji e.html  Fire Disaster of Hōryū-ji ] Reiji Yamashina, Retrieved July 15, 2008.</ref>  As a consequence of the restoration (completed in 1954), it is estimated that about fifteen to twenty percent of the original seventh century Kondo materials is left in the current building. The charred sections were carefully removed and rebuilt in a separate fireproof warehouse for future research.<ref name="ISBN4770029772"/><ref name="ISBN0750634340">{{Cite web|url=http://books.google.com/books?vid=ISBN0750634340&id=wVk7s0W8IT8C&pg=PA21&lpg=PA20&dq=horyu+ji&sig=3zHPceHkNlgbgWHJm0j6YaAQhFc|title=Conservation of Historic Timber Structures: an ecological approach p21|accessdate=2007-04-03|publisher=Elsevier|year=Elsevier|author=Nils Marstein, Knut Einar Larsen}}</ref><ref name="ISBN3930698986">{{Cite web|url=http://books.google.com/books?vid=ISBN3930698986&id=zh88TftnTsYC&pg=RA1-PA48&lpg=RA1-PA48&dq=horyu+ji&sig=HYcSBPUOgCMJ8bZclmkZ1Zin-k8|title=Hozon: architectural and urban conservation in Japan, p48|accessdate=2007-04-03|publisher=Edition Axel Menges|year=1998|author=Niels Gutschow, Siegfried RCT Enders}}</ref>A dendrochronological analysis carried out on the wood salvaged from the fire revealed that some of the trees were felled prior to 670, suggesting a possibility that the current Kondō was already under construction when the fire in 670, recorded in the Nihon Shoki, burned down the former Wakakusa-Garan.<ref>{{cite news
-Due to a fire incident that broke out on January 26, 1949, severe damage was caused to the building, mainly its first floor, and the murals. As a result of the restoration (completed in 1954), it is estimated that about fifteen to twenty percent of the original seventh century Kondo materials is left in the current building, while the charred members were carefully removed and rebuilt to a separate fireproof warehouse for future research.<ref name="ISBN4770029772"/><ref name="ISBN0750634340">{{Cite web|url=http://books.google.com/books?vid=ISBN0750634340&id=wVk7s0W8IT8C&pg=PA21&lpg=PA20&dq=horyu+ji&sig=3zHPceHkNlgbgWHJm0j6YaAQhFc|title=Conservation of Historic Timber Structures: an ecological approach p21|accessdate=2007-04-03|publisher=Elsevier|year=Elsevier|author=Nils Marstein, Knut Einar Larsen}}</ref><ref name="ISBN3930698986">{{Cite web|url=http://books.google.com/books?vid=ISBN3930698986&id=zh88TftnTsYC&pg=RA1-PA48&lpg=RA1-PA48&dq=horyu+ji&sig=HYcSBPUOgCMJ8bZclmkZ1Zin-k8|title=Hozon: architectural and urban conservation in Japan, p48|accessdate=2007-04-03|publisher=Edition Axel Menges|year=1998|author=Niels Gutschow, Siegfried RCT Enders}}</ref>
-Through a recent dendrochronological analysis carried out using the materials preserved during the restorations done in the 1950s, it has turned out that some of them were felled prior to 670, suggesting a possibility that the current Kondō was already under construction when "the fire in 670", as recorded in ''the Chronicles'', burned the former Wakakusa-Garan down.<ref>{{cite news
    | last =
    | first =
-   | title = Find rekindles debate over Horyuji Temple
+   | title = Find rekindles debate over Hōryū-ji  Temple
    | url=http://search.japantimes.co.jp/member/member.html?nn20040720f1.htm
    | publisher = The Japan Times Ltd.
@@ Line 68: / Line 65: @@
    | accessdate = 2007-04-04 }}</ref>
-The hall holds the famous Shaka Triad, together with also bronze Yakushi and Amida Nyorai statues, and other national treasures. The wall paintings shown today in the Kondō is a reproduction from 1967.
+Though not large, the hall is very impressive, with its multi-layered roof, sweeping eaves, and intricately detailed second floor banister. The hall holds the famous Shaka Triad, together with bronze Yakushi and Amida Nyorai statues, and other national treasures. The wall paintings shown today in the Kondō are mounted reproductions, made in 1967 by artists copying, on white paper, large format color photographs that had been taken of the murals before the fire.
 === Yumedono (Hall of Dreams)===
-[[Image:HoryujiYumedono0363.jpg|thumb|Yumedono, a hall associated with Prince Shōtoku]]
+[[Image:Hōryū-ji Yumedono0363.jpg|thumb|Yumedono, a hall associated with Prince Shōtoku]]
-Yumedono is one of the main constructions in the Tō-in area, built on the ground which was once Prince Shōtoku's private palace, ''Ikaruga no miya''. The present incarnation of this hall was built in 739 to assuage the Prince's spirit. The hall has acquired its present-day common name in Heian period, after a legend that says a Buddha arrived as Prince Shōtoku and meditated in a hall that existed here. The hall also contains the famous Yumedono Kannon (also Guze,- Kuse-, or Guze Kannon); which is only displayed at certain times of the year.<ref>Usually in spring and autumn, for about a month period each. Planned Apr 11-May 18 for [[2007]].</ref>
+Yumedono (“Hall of Dreams,” or “Hall of Visions”), an elegant octagonal building, is one of the main constructions in the Tō-in area, built on the ground which was once Prince Shōtoku's private palace, ''Ikaruga no miya''. The present incarnation of this hall was built in 739 to assuage the Prince's spirit. The hall acquired its present-day common name in Heian period, from a legend that says a Buddha arrived as Prince Shōtoku and meditated in a hall that existed here. The hall contains the famous Yumedono Kannon (also Guze,- Kuse-, or Guze Kannon); which is only displayed at certain times of the year.<ref>Usually in spring and autumn, for about a month period each.</ref>
+The Tō-in area also contains the Denpodo (a lecture hall), and priests' living quarters dating to the 8th century. The corridor surrounding Yumedono; the Raido (worship hall); and other buildings were rebuilt in the 13th century. <ref> The Yamasa Institute [http://www.yamasa.org/japan/english/destinations/nara/Hōryū-ji andchoguji.html  Hōryū-ji  and Chuguji] Japan Travel Guide. Retrieved July 15, 2008</ref>
+== Treasures ==
+Hōryū-ji  contains over 2,300 important cultural and historical structures and artifacts, including nearly 190 that have been designated by the Japanese government as National Treasures or Important Cultural Properties. In December of 1993, Hōryū-ji , as a unique storehouse of world Buddhist culture, became the first treasure of any kind in Japan to be selected by UNESCO as part of the World Heritage.<ref> [http://www.Hōryū-ji .or.jp/Hōryū-ji _e.htm] Retrieved July 15, 2008</ref>
+The treasures of the temple are considered to be a time capsule of Buddhist art from the sixth and seventh century.  Many of the frescoes, statues, and other pieces of art within the temple, as well as the architecture of the temple's buildings themselves, exhibit a strong cultural influence from China, Korea and India, and illustrate the cultural links among the countries of East Asia.<ref> {{cite web|url=http://scienceview.berkeley.edu/VI/handbooks_archaeology.html |title=The Archeology of Korea and Cultural Features |accessdate=2008-07-15 }}</ref><ref name="ISBN0521223520_2">{{Cite web|url=http://books.google.com/books?vid=ISBN0521223520&id=x5mwgfPXK1kC&pg=PA176&lpg=PA176&vq=horyu+ji&dq=koguryo+murals&sig=ow1Y90TINIbWvqWtWekfJi_2qkI|title=The Cambridge history of Japan "The Asuka Enlightenment" p.176|accessdate=2007-04-03|publisher=Cambridge University|year=1988|author=John Whitney Hall}}</ref>
-== Treasures ==
+A large quantity of these objects were moved in the 1880s to the Horyu-ji Treasure House on the grounds of the Tokyo National Museum. In 1941, commemorating the 1,350th anniversary of the death of Shotoku, a museum was built in Ikaruga to house other works of art, religious objects, and artifacts found in the monuments of the region
-The treasures of the temple are considered to be a time capsule of Buddhist art from the sixth and seventh century.  Much of the frescoes, statues, and other pieces of art within the temple, as well as the architecture of the temple's buildings themselves show the strong cultural influence from China, Korea and India and demonstrated the international connection of the countries of East Asia.<ref> {{cite web|url=http://scienceview.berkeley.edu/VI/handbooks_archaeology.html |title=The Archeology of Korea and Cultural Features |accessdate=2007-04-02 }}</ref><ref name="ISBN0521223520_2">{{Cite web|url=http://books.google.com/books?vid=ISBN0521223520&id=x5mwgfPXK1kC&pg=PA176&lpg=PA176&vq=horyu+ji&dq=koguryo+murals&sig=ow1Y90TINIbWvqWtWekfJi_2qkI|title=The Cambridge history of Japan "The Asuka Enlightenment" p.176|accessdate=2007-04-03|publisher=Cambridge University|year=1988|author=John Whitney Hall}}</ref>
-The Tokyo National Museum holds over 300 objects which were donated to the Imperial Household by Hōryu-ji in 1878.  Some of these itmes are on public display, and all are available for study as part of the museum's digital collection.[http://www.tnm.go.jp/en/servlet/Con?pageId=B01&processId=00&mansion_id=M4 ...link to Hōryu-ji Treasures at Toyko National Museum]
+The Hōryū-ji Treasure House on the grounds of the Tokyo National Museum holds over 300 objects which were donated to the Imperial Household by Hōryu-ji in 1878.  Some of these items are on public display, and all are available for study as part of the museum's digital collection.<ref>Tokyo National Museum [http://www.tnm.go.jp/en/servlet/Con?pageId=B01&processId=00&mansion_id=M4 ...gallery of Hōryu-ji Treasures at Toyko National Museum] Retrieved July 15, 2008.</ref>
 === Murals ===
-The murals of Kondō comprise fifty walls; four larger walls, eight mid-sized walls and thirty-eight small wall areas inside the building. The original murals were removed after the fire incident in 1949 and is kept in a non-public treasure house. Twenty small wall paints, escaping from the 1949 fire, are in its original place while reproductions replaced the parts that were removed due to damage.
+The murals of Kondō comprise fifty walls; four larger walls, eight mid-sized walls and thirty-eight small wall areas inside the building. The original murals were removed after the fire incident in 1949, and are kept in a treasure house that is not open to the public. Twenty small wall paintings that escaped the 1949 fire, are in their original places, and reproductions have replaced the damaged murals that were removed.
-It is generally believed that the paints on the large walls represents the [[Pure Land]] (浄土　''jodo'') with Shaka, Amida, Miroku and Yakushi Nyorai Bhuddas. Some of the looks and clothing drawn carries certain similarities with murals found in [[Ajanta Caves]] (India) or [[Dunhuang]] (China.) Also observed are Tang and Inidian flavors of the [[Bodhisattva|Bosatsu]] and [[Guan Yin|Kannon]] drawn on the sides of the [[Amida]].
+It is generally believed that the paintings on the large walls represent the [[Pure Land]] (浄土　''jodo'') with Shaka, Amida, Miroku and Yakushi Nyorai Bhuddas. Some of the features and clothing in the paintings bear similarities with murals found in the [[Ajanta Caves]] (India) or in [[Dunhuang]] (China). Tang and Indian influences can be observed in the [[Bodhisattva|Bosatsu]] and [[Guan Yin|Kannon]] painted alongside the [[Amida]].
-Judging from the early Tang influences, the present day consensus on the time of creation of the paintings is end of 7th century. Thus ruling out the possibilities of authorship by those early 7th century figures who were once believed to be the creator, eg. Tori or Doncho (a Goguryeo monk Tamjing, who lived in Ikaruga), there is no one clearly credited to this work.<ref name="ISBN0195088913"/><ref name="KoreaReligious">{{Cite web|url=http://books.google.com/books?vid=ISBN070071605X&id=e1BzL2lwPqEC&pg=PA36&lpg=PA36&dq=koguryo+monk+murals&sig=H-hMYviQ5vUlVYqaGbYtJxSU2WU|title=Korea: A Religious History "Early Korea" p36|accessdate=2007-04-03|publisher=Routledge|year=2002|author=James Huntley Grayson}}</ref><ref>{{cite book
+Based on the evidence of early Tang influences, present-day consensus is that these paintings were created at the end of 7th century. This rules out the possibility that they were painted by the early 7th century figures who were once believed to be their creators, such as Tori or Doncho (a Goguryeo monk Tamjing, who lived in Ikaruga). No person is clearly credited as the painter of these works.<ref name="ISBN0195088913"/><ref name="KoreaReligious">{{Cite web|url=http://books.google.com/books?vid=ISBN070071605X&id=e1BzL2lwPqEC&pg=PA36&lpg=PA36&dq=koguryo+monk+murals&sig=H-hMYviQ5vUlVYqaGbYtJxSU2WU|title=Korea: A Religious History "Early Korea" p36|accessdate=2007-04-03|publisher=Routledge|year=2002|author=James Huntley Grayson}}</ref><ref>{{cite book
    | last = Takada
    | first = Ryoshin
@@ Line 98: / Line 98: @@
 === Kudara Kannon ===
 [[Image:Geishaboy500.jpg|thumb|right|Replica of Kudara Kannon in the [[British Museum]].]]
-The Kudara Kannon is a statue of [[Kannon]] and made of gilded camphor wood.  It is 210 centimeters in height<ref name="ISBN477002939X">{{Cite web|url=http://books.google.com/books?vid=ISBN477002939X&id=zMC4RMXQkn0C&pg=PA44&lpg=PA44&vq=kannon&dq=chuguji+miroku&sig=pzb3G7smVtJacAiAnXvXOFuBhxs|title=Discovering the Arts of Japan: A Historical Overview, p42-44|accessdate=2007-04-03|publisher=Kodansha International|year=2003|author=Tsuneko S. Sadao, Stephanie Wada}}</ref> and shoulderuing the [[Halo (religious iconography)|halo]]. The statue is unique in Japanese art,<ref name="ISBN477002018Xp587">{{cite book  | last = Kinoshita| first = June| authorlink = | coauthors = Nicholas Palevsky| title = Gateway to Japan| publisher = Kodansha| date = 1998| pages = pp. 587-588| month = | isbn = 477002018X }}</ref> and regarded as one of the most important works in the ancient Japan.
+The Kudara Kannon is a statue of [[Kannon]], 210 centimeters in height, made of gilded camphor wood<ref name="ISBN477002939X">{{Cite web|url=http://books.google.com/books?vid=ISBN477002939X&id=zMC4RMXQkn0C&pg=PA44&lpg=PA44&vq=kannon&dq=chuguji+miroku&sig=pzb3G7smVtJacAiAnXvXOFuBhxs|title=Discovering the Arts of Japan: A Historical Overview, p42-44|accessdate=2007-04-03|publisher=Kodansha International|year=2003|author=Tsuneko S. Sadao, Stephanie Wada}}</ref> and shouldering a [[Halo (religious iconography)|halo]]. The slender, graceful statue is unique in Japanese art,<ref name="ISBN477002018Xp587">{{cite book  | last = Kinoshita| first = June| authorlink = | coauthors = Nicholas Palevsky| title = Gateway to Japan| publisher = Kodansha| date = 1998| pages = pp. 587-588| month = | isbn = 477002018X }}</ref> and is regarded as one of the most important works of Buddhist art from ancient Japan.
-The statue is very thin which also creates the illusion of height.  The word Kudara is the Japanese for the [[Baekje]] Kingdom. The statue was first described in the text written in 1698, although its origin is still unknown. The name was given in the [[Meiji period]], because its style resembled traditional Korean statues, and prior to this the statue was called as [[Akasagarbha|Kokuzo Bosatsu]]. Some art critics believe it to be a Korean creation<ref name="ISBN141796569X">{{Cite book | title=Temple Treasures of Japan[http://books.google.com/books?vid=ISBN141796569X&id=s_S4NqCg4iMC&pg=PA15&lpg=PA15&vq=korean&dq=korean+sculpture&sig=KQapTXiFzRxAco28wt9Y9QjVc_U]| pages = p.15 |accessdate=2007-04-03|publisher=Kessinger Publishing|date=2005|first = Garrett | last = Chatfield Pier | isbn = 141796569X}}</ref>and another source suggests that the statue was carved in Japan.<ref name="ISBN477002939X"/> Japanese art historians indicate that the statue was carved in late 7th century and influenced from the [[Southern Dynasties]] styles.
+The statue is very thin, creating the illusion of height.  “Kudara” was the Japanese name for the [[Baekje]] Kingdom. The statue was first described in a text written in 1698, although its origin is still unknown. Its name was given in the [[Meiji period]], because its style resembled traditional Korean statues; prior to this the statue was called Kokuzo Bosatsu (Akasagarbha|). Some art critics believe it to be a Korean creation<ref name="ISBN141796569X">{{Cite book | title=Temple Treasures of Japan[http://books.google.com/books?vid=ISBN141796569X&id=s_S4NqCg4iMC&pg=PA15&lpg=PA15&vq=korean&dq=korean+sculpture&sig=KQapTXiFzRxAco28wt9Y9QjVc_U]| pages = p.15 |accessdate=2007-04-03|publisher=Kessinger Publishing|date=2005|first = Garrett | last = Chatfield Pier | isbn = 141796569X}}</ref>and another source suggests that the statue was carved in Japan.<ref name="ISBN477002939X"/> Japanese art historians believe that the statue was carved in late 7th century and influenced by the [[Southern Dynasties]] style.
 === Yakushi Nyorai ===
-The statue of Yakushi of the original temple was saved during the fire of 670.<ref name="ISBN0300053339">{{Cite web|url=http://books.google.com/books?vid=ISBN0300053339&id=pO6ErY9hE7gC&pg=PA300&lpg=PA300&dq=horyuji&sig=sAXpZvB2RN8cVWVCZlrWkhS4jJI|title=The Art and Architecture of Japan , p300|accessdate=2007-04-03|publisher=Yale University Press|year=1981|author=Robert Treat Paine}}</ref> While the temple was being rebuilt the Shaka Triad was commissioned or had been already cast.
+The statue of Yakushi Nyorai (Buddha of Healing) to which the original temple was dedicated, was saved during the fire of 670.<ref name="ISBN0300053339">{{Cite web|url=http://books.google.com/books?vid=ISBN0300053339&id=pO6ErY9hE7gC&pg=PA300&lpg=PA300&dq=Hōryū-ji &sig=sAXpZvB2RN8cVWVCZlrWkhS4jJI|title=The Art and Architecture of Japan , p300|accessdate=2007-04-03|publisher=Yale University Press|year=1981|author=Robert Treat Paine}}</ref> While the temple was being rebuilt, the Shaka Triad was commissioned or had been already cast.
 === Yumedono (Guze) Kannon ===
-This Kannon is a statue that supposedly is the representation of Prince Shotoku.  It is approximate six feet and one inch and some sources believe that Shotoku was that height.  It is 197 centimeters in height.<ref name="ISBN477002939X"/> The kannon is made of gilded wood.  It is suggested that the statue was made to assuage the dead prince's spirit based on the fact that the halo was attached to the statue by a nail driven through the head. The statue bears a close resemblance to extant portraiture of the prince.
+This Kannon is supposedly a representation of Prince Shotoku.  It is 197 centimeters (6 feet, 1 inch) in height, and some sources believe that was the height of Prince Shotoku. <ref name="ISBN477002939X"/> The kannon is made of gilded wood.  It is suggested that the statue was made to assuage the dead prince's spirit, based on the fact that the halo was attached to the statue by a nail driven through the head. The statue bears a close resemblance to extant portraiture of the prince.
-The Kannon retains most of its' gilt.  It is in superb condition because it was kept in the Dream Hall and wrapped in five hundred meters of cloth and never viewed in sunlight.  The statue was held to be sacred and was never seen until it was unwrapped at the demand of [[Ernest Fenollosa]], who was charged by the Japanese government to catalogue the art of the state and later became a curator at the Boston Museum.<ref name="ISBN477002018Xp587"/> Art historians suggest that this figure is based on the Tori style.  <ref name="ISBN477002939X"/>
+The Kannon retains most of its gilt.  It is in superb condition because it was kept in the Dream Hall, wrapped in five hundred meters of cloth, and never viewed in sunlight. The statue was considered sacred, and was never seen until it was unwrapped at the demand of [[Ernest Fenollosa]] (later a curator at the Boston Museum), who had been charged by the Japanese government to catalogue the art of the state. <ref name="ISBN477002018Xp587"/> Art historians suggest that this figure is based on the Tori style.  <ref name="ISBN477002939X"/>
 === Shaka Triad ===
+The Kondō is dominated by the Shaka Triad, a statue of  Gautama Buddha (Sakyamuni), attended by two Bodhisattvas, [[Bhaisajyaguru]] to his right and [[Amitabha|Amitābha]] to his left.
-[[Tori Busshi]] is credited with the casting of this massive Buddhist statue. It is a triad and so [[Gautama Buddha|Sakyamuni]], the center Buddha, is attended by two other figures, [[Bhaisajyaguru]] to its right and [[Amitabha|Amitābha]] to its left. The statues are dated to 623 and the style originates in [[Northern Wei]] art.<ref name="ISBN477002939X">{{Cite web|url=http://books.google.com/books?vid=ISBN477002939X&id=zMC4RMXQkn0C&pg=PA42&lpg=PA42&vq=kannon&dq=chuguji+miroku&sig=Z5IBZpP5m89CZxi3XUnwfbEBsh4|title=Discovering the Arts of Japan: A Historical Overview, p42|accessdate=2007-04-03|publisher=Kodansha International|year=2003|author=Tsuneko S. Sadao, Stephanie Wada}}</ref> The style of the statue is also known as Tori style and is characterized by the two-dimensionality of the figure and the repetitive pattern-like depictions of the cloth the triad sits upon.<ref name="ISBN477002939X"/> At each corner of the triad stand four wooden [[Four Heavenly Kings|Shitennō]] statues from the end of the [[Asuka period]]. They are the oldest examples of Shitennō statues in Japan.<ref name="">{{cite book | title=''Hōryūji''　(tourist brochure)| last=| date=2007| pages=pp. 11-12| publisher=Benrido Co., Ltd.| location=Kyoto, Japan}}</ref>
+[[Tori Busshi]] is credited with the casting of this massive bronze Buddhist statue, dedicated to Prince Shotoku, in 623. The style has its origins in the art of [[Northern Wei]].<ref name="ISBN477002939X">{{Cite web|url=http://books.google.com/books?vid=ISBN477002939X&id=zMC4RMXQkn0C&pg=PA42&lpg=PA42&vq=kannon&dq=chuguji+miroku&sig=Z5IBZpP5m89CZxi3XUnwfbEBsh4|title=Discovering the Arts of Japan: A Historical Overview, p42|accessdate=2007-04-03|publisher=Kodansha International|year=2003|author=Tsuneko S. Sadao, Stephanie Wada}}</ref> The style of the statue, also known as Tori style, is characterized by the two-dimensionality of the figure and the repetitive pattern-like depictions of the cloth the triad sits upon.<ref name="ISBN477002939X"/>The two Boddhistvas still bear some of the original gold leaf. <ref> The Yamasa Institute [http://www.yamasa.org/japan/english/destinations/nara/Hōryū-ji andchoguji.html  Hōryū-ji  and Chuguji] Japan Travel Guide. Retrieved July 15, 2008</ref>
-== Serving the needs of architectural research ==
+The Yakushi Nyorai (Buddha of Healing) stands to the right of the Shaka Triad, and  on its left is Amida Buddha, commemorating Prince Shotoku’s  mother. At each corner of the platform stands a statue of one of the Four Heavenly Kings (Shitennō), carved of camphor wood at the end of the [[Asuka period]] (538 – 710). They are the oldest examples of Shitennō statues in Japan.<ref name="">{{cite book | title=''Hōryūji''　(tourist brochure)| last=| date=2007| pages=pp. 11-12| publisher=Benrido Co., Ltd.| location=Kyoto, Japan}}</ref>
-[[Nihon Shoki|''The Chronicles of Japan'']] records the arrival of a carpenter and a buddhist sculptor in 577, along with the monks, from [[Baekje]] to Japan, which is an underlying fact of importing the mainland expertise through this Korean kingdom with whom Japan enjoyed close relations, in order to build temples locally. These experts are recorded to have stationed in Naniwa, or present-day [[Osaka, Osaka|Osaka]], where the [[Shitennō-ji]] was built.<ref> {{cite web|url=http://www.orientalarchitecture.com/nara/horyujiindex.htm |title=Asian Historical Architecture, Horyuji Temple |accessdate=2007-04-02 |first=www.orientalarchitecture.com }}</ref>
-There is no record, on the other hand, as to who exactly were the people that have engaged in the constructing of Hōryu-ji, although ''The Chronicles'' records the existence of 46 temples in 624.<ref name="978-4-8409-5016-9">{{cite book | title=世界文化遺産法隆寺を語る ''sekai bunka isan Horyuji o kataru" (Horyuji, a World Heritage described)| url=www.yanagiharashoten.co.jp/| last=Ryoshin Takada| date=2007| pages=76-77| publisher=Yanagihara Shoten}}</ref> The bracket work of Hōryū-ji resembles that of the partial remainder of a miniature Baekje gilt bronze pagoda.<ref name="Indiana">{{Cite web|url=http://www.indiana.edu/~easc/resources/korea_slides/architecture/3-2.htm|title=Audio/Slide Program for Use in Korean Studies, ARCHITECTURE, Indiana University|accessdate=2007-04-03|publisher=Indiana University|author=Shin Young-hoon}}</ref> Since there is no surviving architecture of the same period in Korea, Hōryu-ji, being the only wooden structure extant even partially from such time, is a living hint for estimating what Baekje temples would have looked like.{{Fact|date=July 2007}} In the book of Samguk Sagi concerning the affairs of Baekje, it is recorded that the Yakushi was created by a Baekje craftsmen by Prince Shotoku to assist the recovery of his father, who, as it turned out, passed away before the completion of the temple complex.{{Fact|date=April 2007}}
+== Relationship with Baekje ==
+[[Nihon Shoki|''The Chronicles of Japan'']] records the arrival of a carpenter and a Buddhist sculptor in Japan in 577, along with monks from the [[Baekje]] kingdom of Korea. These artisans are recorded to have been stationed in Naniwa, or present-day [[Osaka, Osaka|Osaka]], where the [[Shitennō-ji]] was built.<ref> {{cite web|url=http://www.orientalarchitecture.com/nara/Hōryū-ji index.htm |title=Asian Historical Architecture, Hōryū-ji  Temple |accessdate=2007-04-02 |first=www.orientalarchitecture.com }}</ref>There is no record of exactly who the builders of the Hōryu-ji were, although ''The Chronicles'' records the existence of 46 temples in 624.<ref name="978-4-8409-5016-9">{{cite book | title=世界文化遺産法隆寺を語る ''sekai bunka isan Hōryū-ji  o kataru" (Hōryū-ji , a World Heritage described)| url=www.yanagiharashoten.co.jp/| last=Ryoshin Takada| date=2007| pages=76-77| publisher=Yanagihara Shoten}}</ref>
+The bracket work of Hōryū-ji resembles that on the remaining portion of a miniature Baekje gilt bronze pagoda.<ref name="Indiana">{{Cite web|url=http://www.indiana.edu/~easc/resources/korea_slides/architecture/3-2.htm|title=Audio/Slide Program for Use in Korean Studies, ARCHITECTURE, Indiana University|accessdate=2008-07-15|publisher=Indiana University|author=Shin Young-hoon}}</ref> Since there is no extant architecture from the same period in Korea, and Hōryu-ji is the only wooden structure to have survived from that time, it may offer insights into what 7th century Baekje temples looked like. The Korean book Samguk Sagi (Chronicles of the Three Kingdoms), chronicling the affairs of Baekje, records that Prince Shotoku commissioned Baekje craftsmen to create the Yakushi, as an offering to ensure the recovery of his father from an illness.
 <gallery>
-Image:HoryujiStatue0321.jpg|Statue of guardian god at Horyuji
+Image:Hōryū-ji Statue0321.jpg|Statue of guardian god at Hōryū-ji
 Image:Horyu-ji34s3200.jpg|Reido
 Image:Horyu-ji20s3200.jpg|The way to the saiendo
-Image:HoryujiGrounds0311Print.jpg|The Horyu-ji complex
+Image:Hōryū-ji Grounds0311Print.jpg|The Horyu-ji complex
 </gallery>
+==Notes==
+{{reflist}}
 ==References==
-{{reflist}}
+*Davis Digital Images. 2003. Japanese Architecture. Worcester, Mass: Davis Digital Images.
+*Hōryūji (Ikaruga-chō, Nara-ken, Japan). 1936. The frescoe paintings of the Hōryū-ji monastery. [Ikaruga, Nara Pref.]: Hōryū-ji.
+*Kidder, J. Edward. 1999. The lucky seventh: early Horyu-ji and its time. Tokyo, Japan: International Christian University, Hachiro Yuasa Memorial Museum.
+*Kuno, Takeshi. 1964. Ancient sculpture in the Hōryū-ji. Tokyo: Chuo-Koron Bijutsu Shuppan.
+*Kurata, Bunsaku. 1981. Hōryū-ji, temple of the exalted law: early Buddhist art from Japan. [New York]: Japan Society.
+*Mizuno, Seiichi. 1974. Asuka Buddhist art: Horyu-ji. The Heibonsha survey of Japanese art, v. 4. New York: Weatherhill. ISBN:0834810204 9780834810204
+*Vecchia, Stefano. 2007. Japanese art: [masterpieces in painting, sculpture and architecture]. New York: Barnes & Noble. ISBN:0760788847 9780760788844
+*Yoshioka, Tsuneo, and Noriko Tomita. 1986. Shōsō-in and Hōryū-ji gire: 7th and 8th century textiles from Shōsō-in and Hōryū-ji. Kyoto, Japan: Takashi Yanagi.
 ==See also==
-{{commonscat|Horyu-ji}}
 *[[Hokki-ji]]
 *[[Masaoka Shiki]]
 ==External links==
-* [http://www.horyuji.or.jp/horyuji_e.htm Horyuji]
+All links retrieved July 15, 2008-07-17
-* {{wikitravelpar|Horyuji}}
+* [http://www.Hōryū-ji .or.jp/Hōryū-ji _e.htm Hōryū-ji ]
+* {{wikitravelpar|Hōryū-ji }}
 {{Geolinks-US-buildingscale|34.614275|135.734236}}
-* Japan Mint: [http://www.mint.go.jp/eng/coin/international/metallic_11.html Horyuji Temple Silver Medallion]
+* Japan Mint: [http://www.mint.go.jp/eng/coin/international/metallic_11.html Hōryū-ji  Temple Silver Medallion]
 {{World Heritage Sites in Japan}}
@@ Line 151: / Line 166: @@
-[[credits|Hōryū-ji|222793312|}}
+{{|credits|Hōryū-ji|222793312|}}

Buddhist Monuments in the Horyu-ji Area*
UNESCO World Heritage Site

State Party	Japan
Type	Cultural
Criteria	i, ii, iv, vi
Reference	660
Region**	Asia-Pacific
Inscription history
Inscription	1993 (17th Session)
* Name as inscribed on World Heritage List. ** Region as classified by UNESCO.