Horyuji Temple

It is said that Horyuji Temple was built by Prince Shotoku in 607 to pray for his father's recovery from illness. This old temple was burnt down in 670, but was soon reconstructed. The temple consist of several buildings; the main hall, five-storied pagoda, lecture hall, bell tower, sutra library, monks' dormitory, dining hall and so on. The main hall is the oldest wooden building in the world, and houses many famous, intricate Buddhas. Many famous national treasures can be seen here.
In December 1993, Horyuji Temple became the first temple in Japan to be registered by UNESCO as a "World Cultural Heritage Site".