Thursday, February 26, 2009

Omamori from Horyuji

OMAMORI(御守) is an amulet; a (good‐luck) charm; a talisman
HORYUJI(法隆寺)

KOTSU-OMAMORI(交通御守) is a charm to ward off traffic accidents and such.

Wednesday, February 25, 2009

Horuyji Temple Brochure in English

More often than not, the Major Temples and Shrines in Japan will feature a brochure describing the place in detail and gives you an excellent introduction to its history. The smaller Temples and Shrines may not even have a brochure or if they do have one, it is in Japanese.
























Tuesday, February 24, 2009

Horyuji, Temple of the Flourishing Law

The Temple was originally commissioned by Prince Shotoku. It was called "Ikaruga-dera" originally and that name is still associated with the Temple. The first Temple is believed to be completed in the year of 607. Horyuji was dedicated to Yakushi Nyorai, the Buddha of healing. The Temple was also constructed to honor Prince Shotoku's father.

The entrance gate







The Chumon (Inner Gate) with its entasis columns

Statue of one of the Guardian Gods protecting the Temple








The Horyuji Complex


The pagoda is the oldest wooden building in the world and is said to have relics of Prince Shotoku at the base


The grand lecture hall


The Chumon brackets and railings







The way to the saiendo




Yumedono, a hall associated with Prince Shotoku


Reido


Temple Bell