Horyu-ji Temple, Nara Overview
Founded in 607 at Ikaruga, about 15 km west, and holding the oldest surviving wooden buildings anywhere in the world. Its pagoda and main hall have stood since the early 700s. It was Japan's first UNESCO World Heritage listing, separate from the Nara inscription, so write it down as near Nara rather than in it. Admission has risen to 2,000 yen, well above the 1,500 most guides print. Allow a half day.
