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.
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