Hokki-ji Temple
法起寺
One of the World Heritage 'Buddhist Monuments in the Horyu-ji Area.' Its three-story pagoda, completed in 706, is the oldest surviving three-story pagoda in Japan.
Hokki-ji is located in Okamoto, Ikaruga-cho. It is said to have been converted from Prince Shotoku's Okamoto Palace. In 1993 it was listed as a World Heritage Site together with Horyu-ji, under the name 'Buddhist Monuments in the Horyu-ji Area.' Its three-story pagoda was completed around 706 and is the oldest surviving three-story pagoda in Japan. It is designated a National Treasure. The temple grounds are small, and you can see everything in about fifteen minutes. Beyond the temple is open farmland, and a field of cosmos in autumn with the ancient pagoda in the frame is the classic image of Ikaruga. Admission is about 300 yen, open about 8:30–17:00 (until 16:30 in winter). Access: from Horyu-ji, follow the rural paths of 'Ikaruga no Sato' past Horin-ji, a walk of about 30 minutes, or take a Nara Kotsu bus to Hokki-ji-mae.
Opening hours
Approx. 08:30–17:00 (Nov–Feb until 16:30)