Hoki-ji Temple

Japan’s Oldest

Three-Story Pagoda

Hokki-ji Temple is a historic Buddhist temple in Ikaruga, Nara, traditionally connected with Prince Shotoku and his son, Prince Yamashiro. Temple and tourism sources explain that the temple was established in the 7th century on a site associated with Okamoto Palace, and that construction was completed in the early 8th century. This background places Hokki-ji within the same early Buddhist landscape as nearby Horyuji.

The temple is especially noted for its three-story pagoda, completed in 706, which is preserved as a National Treasure. Official sources describe it as the oldest extant three-story pagoda in Japan. Hokki-ji is also included in the UNESCO World Heritage property “Buddhist Monuments in the Horyu-ji Area,” reflecting its architectural and historical importance.

For visitors, Hokki-ji offers a clear introduction to early temple architecture in the quiet rural setting of Ikaruga.

Explore the Sights

See photos that bring Hoki-ji Temple to life.

Traditional Japanese pagoda surrounded by trees, seen above a wall with a flowerbed.
Traditional Japanese pagoda with multiple tiers, dark wooden structure, white walls, set in a park with trees and clear blue sky.
Traditional Japanese pagoda with multiple tiers, surrounded by trees with yellow and green leaves, under a blue sky with clouds.
A traditional Japanese pagoda partly obscured by autumn-colored trees, set against a blue sky.
A traditional Japanese pagoda surrounded by lush trees and foliage, with a pond filled with lily pads in the foreground, under a blue sky.
Reflection of a pagoda-style roof and tower in a pond with lily pads and floating leaves.
A traditional wooden Japanese temple with a tiled, curved roof surrounded by trees and an open yard, under a partly cloudy sky.
Traditional Japanese building with wooden doors and tiled roof under a partly cloudy sky.
A tranquil Japanese garden with a pond filled with lily pads, surrounded by trees and traditional buildings, during autumn with colorful foliage.
A pond with floating lily pads reflecting sunlight and the sky, with trees bordering the water.