Horin-ji

Temple

法輪寺

A Contemplative Sanctuary

of Early Japanese Buddhism

Sharing the early Buddhist heritage of Ikaruga, Horin-ji Temple is a historic temple also known as Mii-dera. Although its exact foundation remains uncertain, one tradition attributes its establishment to Prince Yamashiro no Oe around 622, while another places its origin after 670. Archaeological investigations have confirmed that the temple was founded during the 7th century and that its original compound followed a layout closely related to that of nearby Horyu-ji Temple.

The original pagoda was destroyed by lightning in 1944, and the present three-story pagoda was reconstructed in 1975 using traditional building techniques. The temple also preserves important Buddhist images that reflect the artistic and religious culture of early Ikaruga Buddhism.

For visitors, Horin-ji offers a rewarding introduction to the history, architecture, and enduring Buddhist traditions that have shaped Ikaruga for more than thirteen centuries.

Traditional Japanese temple gate with tiled roof, wooden beams, and stone steps, surrounded by trees and a blue sky.
A traditional multi-tiered Japanese pagoda with wooden construction and curved roof eaves, situated outdoors with trees and a clear blue sky.
Close-up of bamboo pipe with water dripping into a stone basin with ripples， contrasting with dark background.
Traditional Japanese temple building with wooden doors, tiled roof with decorative eaves, set in a garden with trees, under a blue sky with clouds.
A traditional Japanese temple bell hanging under a wooden structure with autumn leaves in the foreground.
Small wooden shrine with stone statue of a Buddha or monk in the center, draped with a red cloth. In front, a pot with green foliage. The shelter is open on three sides, with stone and wood elements, surrounded by natural greenery and stone monuments
Ancient stone carvings featuring small Buddha statues, arranged in multiple rows on a stone platform, partially illuminated by sunlight, with a background of trees and greenery.
Traditional Japanese building with wooden sliding doors, surrounded by trees and a gravel pathway, under a blue sky with white clouds.
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