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This set of paintings is the oldest and largest extant illustrated biography of Prince Regent Shotoku (574-622). It depicts places and events related to the traditional account of his life, stemming from the veneration of the prince that began in the Nara period (710-794).<br/><br/>

These paintings were originally on fixed doors that adorned the Picture Hall in the East Precinct of Horyu-ji Temple. They were remounted as freestanding screens in the Edo period (1615-1868), and in recent times were again remounted on ten panels.<br/><br/>

Records tell us that Hata no Chitei, an artist from Settsu Province (present-day Osaka Prefecture), painted them during the second to fifth month of Enkyu 1 (1069).
This set of paintings is the oldest and largest extant illustrated biography of Prince Regent Shotoku (574-622). It depicts places and events related to the traditional account of his life, stemming from the veneration of the prince that began in the Nara period (710-794).<br/><br/>

These paintings were originally on fixed doors that adorned the Picture Hall in the East Precinct of Horyu-ji Temple. They were remounted as freestanding screens in the Edo period (1615-1868), and in recent times were again remounted on ten panels.<br/><br/>

Records tell us that Hata no Chitei, an artist from Settsu Province (present-day Osaka Prefecture), painted them during the second to fifth month of Enkyu 1 (1069).
This set of paintings is the oldest and largest extant illustrated biography of Prince Regent Shotoku (574-622). It depicts places and events related to the traditional account of his life, stemming from the veneration of the prince that began in the Nara period (710-794).<br/><br/>

These paintings were originally on fixed doors that adorned the Picture Hall in the East Precinct of Horyu-ji Temple. They were remounted as freestanding screens in the Edo period (1615-1868), and in recent times were again remounted on ten panels.<br/><br/>

Records tell us that Hata no Chitei, an artist from Settsu Province (present-day Osaka Prefecture), painted them during the second to fifth month of Enkyu 1 (1069).
This set of paintings is the oldest and largest extant illustrated biography of Prince Regent Shotoku (574-622). It depicts places and events related to the traditional account of his life, stemming from the veneration of the prince that began in the Nara period (710-794).<br/><br/>

These paintings were originally on fixed doors that adorned the Picture Hall in the East Precinct of Horyu-ji Temple. They were remounted as freestanding screens in the Edo period (1615-1868), and in recent times were again remounted on ten panels.<br/><br/>

Records tell us that Hata no Chitei, an artist from Settsu Province (present-day Osaka Prefecture), painted them during the second to fifth month of Enkyu 1 (1069).
This set of paintings is the oldest and largest extant illustrated biography of Prince Regent Shotoku (574-622). It depicts places and events related to the traditional account of his life, stemming from the veneration of the prince that began in the Nara period (710-794).<br/><br/>

These paintings were originally on fixed doors that adorned the Picture Hall in the East Precinct of Horyu-ji Temple. They were remounted as freestanding screens in the Edo period (1615-1868), and in recent times were again remounted on ten panels.<br/><br/>

Records tell us that Hata no Chitei, an artist from Settsu Province (present-day Osaka Prefecture), painted them during the second to fifth month of Enkyu 1 (1069).
Hōryū-ji (Temple of the Flourishing Law) is a Buddhist temple in Ikaruga, Nara Prefecture, Japan. Its full name is Hōryū Gakumonji, or Learning Temple of the Flourishing Law, the complex serving both as a seminary and a monastery.<br/><br/>

In 1993, Hōryū-ji was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name Buddhist Monuments in the Hōryū-ji Area. The Japanese government lists several of its structures, sculptures and artifacts as National Treasures.<br/><br/>

The kondo, or great hall of the temple, dating in part to the 7th century, is famous for its 7th century Buddhist murals. Unfortunately, on January 26, 1949, a fire in the kondo caused very severe damage to the murals, many of which were destroyed.<br/><br/>

The murals of the kondō comprise fifty walls; four larger walls, eight mid-sized walls and thirty-eight small wall areas inside the building. The original murals were removed after the fire incident in 1949 and are kept in storage. Twenty small wall paintings that escaped the fire remain in place, while reproductions have replaced the lost frescoes.
The ancient Horyu-ji frescoes represent Pure Land Shaka, Amida, Miroku and Yakushi Nyorai Bhuddas. There are artistic links with similar murals in Dunhuang, China and Ajanta, India. Some authorities link the paintings to a Goguryeo monk named Tamjing who lived in 7th century Ikaruga, but this is disputed.
Hōryū-ji (Temple of the Flourishing Law) is a Buddhist temple in Ikaruga, Nara Prefecture, Japan. Its full name is Hōryū Gakumonji, or Learning Temple of the Flourishing Law, the complex serving both as a seminary and a monastery.<br/><br/>

In 1993, Hōryū-ji was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name Buddhist Monuments in the Hōryū-ji Area. The Japanese government lists several of its structures, sculptures and artifacts as National Treasures.<br/><br/>

The kondo, or great hall of the temple, dating in part to the 7th century, is famous for its 7th century Buddhist murals. Unfortunately, on January 26, 1949, a fire in the kondo caused very severe damage to the murals, many of which were destroyed.<br/><br/>

The murals of the kondō comprise fifty walls; four larger walls, eight mid-sized walls and thirty-eight small wall areas inside the building. The original murals were removed after the fire incident in 1949 and are kept in storage. Twenty small wall paintings that escaped the fire remain in place, while reproductions have replaced the lost frescoes.
The ancient Horyu-ji frescoes represent Pure Land Shaka, Amida, Miroku and Yakushi Nyorai Bhuddas. There are artistic links with similar murals in Dunhuang, China and Ajanta, India. Some authorities link the paintings to a Goguryeo monk named Tamjing who lived in 7th century Ikaruga, but this is disputed.
Hōryū-ji (Temple of the Flourishing Law) is a Buddhist temple in Ikaruga, Nara Prefecture, Japan. Its full name is Hōryū Gakumonji, or Learning Temple of the Flourishing Law, the complex serving both as a seminary and a monastery.<br/><br/>

In 1993, Hōryū-ji was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name Buddhist Monuments in the Hōryū-ji Area. The Japanese government lists several of its structures, sculptures and artifacts as National Treasures.<br/><br/>

The kondo, or great hall of the temple, dating in part to the 7th century, is famous for its 7th century Buddhist murals. Unfortunately, on January 26, 1949, a fire in the kondo caused very severe damage to the murals, many of which were destroyed.<br/><br/>

The murals of the kondō comprise fifty walls; four larger walls, eight mid-sized walls and thirty-eight small wall areas inside the building. The original murals were removed after the fire incident in 1949 and are kept in storage. Twenty small wall paintings that escaped the fire remain in place, while reproductions have replaced the lost frescoes.
The ancient Horyu-ji frescoes represent Pure Land Shaka, Amida, Miroku and Yakushi Nyorai Bhuddas. There are artistic links with similar murals in Dunhuang, China and Ajanta, India. Some authorities link the paintings to a Goguryeo monk named Tamjing who lived in 7th century Ikaruga, but this is disputed.
Hōryū-ji (Temple of the Flourishing Law) is a Buddhist temple in Ikaruga, Nara Prefecture, Japan. Its full name is Hōryū Gakumonji, or Learning Temple of the Flourishing Law, the complex serving both as a seminary and a monastery.<br/><br/>

In 1993, Hōryū-ji was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name Buddhist Monuments in the Hōryū-ji Area. The Japanese government lists several of its structures, sculptures and artifacts as National Treasures.<br/><br/>

The kondo, or great hall of the temple, dating in part to the 7th century, is famous for its 7th century Buddhist murals. Unfortunately, on January 26, 1949, a fire in the kondo caused very severe damage to the murals, many of which were destroyed.<br/><br/>

The murals of the kondō comprise fifty walls; four larger walls, eight mid-sized walls and thirty-eight small wall areas inside the building. The original murals were removed after the fire incident in 1949 and are kept in storage. Twenty small wall paintings that escaped the fire remain in place, while reproductions have replaced the lost frescoes.
The ancient Horyu-ji frescoes represent Pure Land Shaka, Amida, Miroku and Yakushi Nyorai Bhuddas. There are artistic links with similar murals in Dunhuang, China and Ajanta, India. Some authorities link the paintings to a Goguryeo monk named Tamjing who lived in 7th century Ikaruga, but this is disputed.
Hōryū-ji (Temple of the Flourishing Law) is a Buddhist temple in Ikaruga, Nara Prefecture, Japan. Its full name is Hōryū Gakumonji, or Learning Temple of the Flourishing Law, the complex serving both as a seminary and a monastery.<br/><br/>

In 1993, Hōryū-ji was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name Buddhist Monuments in the Hōryū-ji Area. The Japanese government lists several of its structures, sculptures and artifacts as National Treasures.<br/><br/>

The kondo, or great hall of the temple, dating in part to the 7th century, is famous for its 7th century Buddhist murals. Unfortunately, on January 26, 1949, a fire in the kondo caused very severe damage to the murals, many of which were destroyed.<br/><br/>

The murals of the kondō comprise fifty walls; four larger walls, eight mid-sized walls and thirty-eight small wall areas inside the building. The original murals were removed after the fire incident in 1949 and are kept in storage. Twenty small wall paintings that escaped the fire remain in place, while reproductions have replaced the lost frescoes.
The ancient Horyu-ji frescoes represent Pure Land Shaka, Amida, Miroku and Yakushi Nyorai Bhuddas. There are artistic links with similar murals in Dunhuang, China and Ajanta, India. Some authorities link the paintings to a Goguryeo monk named Tamjing who lived in 7th century Ikaruga, but this is disputed.
Hōryū-ji (Temple of the Flourishing Law) is a Buddhist temple in Ikaruga, Nara Prefecture, Japan. Its full name is Hōryū Gakumonji, or Learning Temple of the Flourishing Law, the complex serving both as a seminary and a monastery.<br/><br/>

In 1993, Hōryū-ji was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name Buddhist Monuments in the Hōryū-ji Area. The Japanese government lists several of its structures, sculptures and artifacts as National Treasures.<br/><br/>

The kondo, or great hall of the temple, dating in part to the 7th century, is famous for its 7th century Buddhist murals. Unfortunately, on January 26, 1949, a fire in the kondo caused very severe damage to the murals, many of which were destroyed.<br/><br/>

The murals of the kondō comprise fifty walls; four larger walls, eight mid-sized walls and thirty-eight small wall areas inside the building. The original murals were removed after the fire incident in 1949 and are kept in storage. Twenty small wall paintings that escaped the fire remain in place, while reproductions have replaced the lost frescoes.
The ancient Horyu-ji frescoes represent Pure Land Shaka, Amida, Miroku and Yakushi Nyorai Bhuddas. There are artistic links with similar murals in Dunhuang, China and Ajanta, India. Some authorities link the paintings to a Goguryeo monk named Tamjing who lived in 7th century Ikaruga, but this is disputed.
Hōryū-ji (Temple of the Flourishing Law) is a Buddhist temple in Ikaruga, Nara Prefecture, Japan. Its full name is Hōryū Gakumonji, or Learning Temple of the Flourishing Law, the complex serving both as a seminary and a monastery.<br/><br/>

In 1993, Hōryū-ji was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name Buddhist Monuments in the Hōryū-ji Area. The Japanese government lists several of its structures, sculptures and artifacts as National Treasures.<br/><br/>

The kondo, or great hall of the temple, dating in part to the 7th century, is famous for its 7th century Buddhist murals. Unfortunately, on January 26, 1949, a fire in the kondo caused very severe damage to the murals, many of which were destroyed.<br/><br/>

The murals of the kondō comprise fifty walls; four larger walls, eight mid-sized walls and thirty-eight small wall areas inside the building. The original murals were removed after the fire incident in 1949 and are kept in storage. Twenty small wall paintings that escaped the fire remain in place, while reproductions have replaced the lost frescoes.
The ancient Horyu-ji frescoes represent Pure Land Shaka, Amida, Miroku and Yakushi Nyorai Bhuddas. There are artistic links with similar murals in Dunhuang, China and Ajanta, India. Some authorities link the paintings to a Goguryeo monk named Tamjing who lived in 7th century Ikaruga, but this is disputed.
Hōryū-ji (Temple of the Flourishing Law) is a Buddhist temple in Ikaruga, Nara Prefecture, Japan. Its full name is Hōryū Gakumonji, or Learning Temple of the Flourishing Law, the complex serving both as a seminary and a monastery.<br/><br/>

In 1993, Hōryū-ji was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name Buddhist Monuments in the Hōryū-ji Area. The Japanese government lists several of its structures, sculptures and artifacts as National Treasures.<br/><br/>

The kondo, or great hall of the temple, dating in part to the 7th century, is famous for its 7th century Buddhist murals. Unfortunately, on January 26, 1949, a fire in the kondo caused very severe damage to the murals, many of which were destroyed.<br/><br/>

The murals of the kondō comprise fifty walls; four larger walls, eight mid-sized walls and thirty-eight small wall areas inside the building. The original murals were removed after the fire incident in 1949 and are kept in storage. Twenty small wall paintings that escaped the fire remain in place, while reproductions have replaced the lost frescoes.
The ancient Horyu-ji frescoes represent Pure Land Shaka, Amida, Miroku and Yakushi Nyorai Bhuddas. There are artistic links with similar murals in Dunhuang, China and Ajanta, India. Some authorities link the paintings to a Goguryeo monk named Tamjing who lived in 7th century Ikaruga, but this is disputed.
Hōryū-ji (Temple of the Flourishing Law) is a Buddhist temple in Ikaruga, Nara Prefecture, Japan. Its full name is Hōryū Gakumonji, or Learning Temple of the Flourishing Law, the complex serving both as a seminary and a monastery.<br/><br/>

In 1993, Hōryū-ji was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name Buddhist Monuments in the Hōryū-ji Area. The Japanese government lists several of its structures, sculptures and artifacts as National Treasures.<br/><br/>

The kondo, or great hall of the temple, dating in part to the 7th century, is famous for its 7th century Buddhist murals. Unfortunately, on January 26, 1949, a fire in the kondo caused very severe damage to the murals, many of which were destroyed.<br/><br/>

The murals of the kondō comprise fifty walls; four larger walls, eight mid-sized walls and thirty-eight small wall areas inside the building. The original murals were removed after the fire incident in 1949 and are kept in storage. Twenty small wall paintings that escaped the fire remain in place, while reproductions have replaced the lost frescoes.
The ancient Horyu-ji frescoes represent Pure Land Shaka, Amida, Miroku and Yakushi Nyorai Bhuddas. There are artistic links with similar murals in Dunhuang, China and Ajanta, India. Some authorities link the paintings to a Goguryeo monk named Tamjing who lived in 7th century Ikaruga, but this is disputed.
Hōryū-ji (Temple of the Flourishing Law) is a Buddhist temple in Ikaruga, Nara Prefecture, Japan. Its full name is Hōryū Gakumonji, or Learning Temple of the Flourishing Law, the complex serving both as a seminary and a monastery.<br/><br/>

In 1993, Hōryū-ji was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name Buddhist Monuments in the Hōryū-ji Area. The Japanese government lists several of its structures, sculptures and artifacts as National Treasures.<br/><br/>

The kondo, or great hall of the temple, dating in part to the 7th century, is famous for its 7th century Buddhist murals. Unfortunately, on January 26, 1949, a fire in the kondo caused very severe damage to the murals, many of which were destroyed.<br/><br/>

The murals of the kondō comprise fifty walls; four larger walls, eight mid-sized walls and thirty-eight small wall areas inside the building. The original murals were removed after the fire incident in 1949 and are kept in storage. Twenty small wall paintings that escaped the fire remain in place, while reproductions have replaced the lost frescoes.
The ancient Horyu-ji frescoes represent Pure Land Shaka, Amida, Miroku and Yakushi Nyorai Bhuddas. There are artistic links with similar murals in Dunhuang, China and Ajanta, India. Some authorities link the paintings to a Goguryeo monk named Tamjing who lived in 7th century Ikaruga, but this is disputed.
Hōryū-ji (Temple of the Flourishing Law) is a Buddhist temple in Ikaruga, Nara Prefecture, Japan. Its full name is Hōryū Gakumonji, or Learning Temple of the Flourishing Law, the complex serving both as a seminary and a monastery.<br/><br/>

In 1993, Hōryū-ji was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name Buddhist Monuments in the Hōryū-ji Area. The Japanese government lists several of its structures, sculptures and artifacts as National Treasures.<br/><br/>

The kondo, or great hall of the temple, dating in part to the 7th century, is famous for its 7th century Buddhist murals. Unfortunately, on January 26, 1949, a fire in the kondo caused very severe damage to the murals, many of which were destroyed.<br/><br/>

The murals of the kondō comprise fifty walls; four larger walls, eight mid-sized walls and thirty-eight small wall areas inside the building. The original murals were removed after the fire incident in 1949 and are kept in storage. Twenty small wall paintings that escaped the fire remain in place, while reproductions have replaced the lost frescoes.
The ancient Horyu-ji frescoes represent Pure Land Shaka, Amida, Miroku and Yakushi Nyorai Bhuddas. There are artistic links with similar murals in Dunhuang, China and Ajanta, India. Some authorities link the paintings to a Goguryeo monk named Tamjing who lived in 7th century Ikaruga, but this is disputed.
Hōryū-ji (Temple of the Flourishing Law) is a Buddhist temple in Ikaruga, Nara Prefecture, Japan. Its full name is Hōryū Gakumonji, or Learning Temple of the Flourishing Law, the complex serving both as a seminary and a monastery.<br/><br/>

In 1993, Hōryū-ji was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name Buddhist Monuments in the Hōryū-ji Area. The Japanese government lists several of its structures, sculptures and artifacts as National Treasures.<br/><br/>

The kondo, or great hall of the temple, dating in part to the 7th century, is famous for its 7th century Buddhist murals. Unfortunately, on January 26, 1949, a fire in the kondo caused very severe damage to the murals, many of which were destroyed.<br/><br/>

The murals of the kondō comprise fifty walls; four larger walls, eight mid-sized walls and thirty-eight small wall areas inside the building. The original murals were removed after the fire incident in 1949 and are kept in storage. Twenty small wall paintings that escaped the fire remain in place, while reproductions have replaced the lost frescoes.
The ancient Horyu-ji frescoes represent Pure Land Shaka, Amida, Miroku and Yakushi Nyorai Bhuddas. There are artistic links with similar murals in Dunhuang, China and Ajanta, India. Some authorities link the paintings to a Goguryeo monk named Tamjing who lived in 7th century Ikaruga, but this is disputed.
Hōryū-ji (Temple of the Flourishing Law) is a Buddhist temple in Ikaruga, Nara Prefecture, Japan. Its full name is Hōryū Gakumonji, or Learning Temple of the Flourishing Law, the complex serving both as a seminary and a monastery.<br/><br/>

In 1993, Hōryū-ji was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name Buddhist Monuments in the Hōryū-ji Area. The Japanese government lists several of its structures, sculptures and artifacts as National Treasures.<br/><br/>

The kondo, or great hall of the temple, dating in part to the 7th century, is famous for its 7th century Buddhist murals. Unfortunately, on January 26, 1949, a fire in the kondo caused very severe damage to the murals, many of which were destroyed.<br/><br/>

The murals of the kondō comprise fifty walls; four larger walls, eight mid-sized walls and thirty-eight small wall areas inside the building. The original murals were removed after the fire incident in 1949 and are kept in storage. Twenty small wall paintings that escaped the fire remain in place, while reproductions have replaced the lost frescoes.
The ancient Horyu-ji frescoes represent Pure Land Shaka, Amida, Miroku and Yakushi Nyorai Bhuddas. There are artistic links with similar murals in Dunhuang, China and Ajanta, India. Some authorities link the paintings to a Goguryeo monk named Tamjing who lived in 7th century Ikaruga, but this is disputed.
Hōryū-ji (Temple of the Flourishing Law) is a Buddhist temple in Ikaruga, Nara Prefecture, Japan. Its full name is Hōryū Gakumonji, or Learning Temple of the Flourishing Law, the complex serving both as a seminary and a monastery.<br/><br/>

In 1993, Hōryū-ji was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name Buddhist Monuments in the Hōryū-ji Area. The Japanese government lists several of its structures, sculptures and artifacts as National Treasures.<br/><br/>

The kondo, or great hall of the temple, dating in part to the 7th century, is famous for its 7th century Buddhist murals. Unfortunately, on January 26, 1949, a fire in the kondo caused very severe damage to the murals, many of which were destroyed.<br/><br/>

The murals of the kondō comprise fifty walls; four larger walls, eight mid-sized walls and thirty-eight small wall areas inside the building. The original murals were removed after the fire incident in 1949 and are kept in storage. Twenty small wall paintings that escaped the fire remain in place, while reproductions have replaced the lost frescoes.
The ancient Horyu-ji frescoes represent Pure Land Shaka, Amida, Miroku and Yakushi Nyorai Bhuddas. There are artistic links with similar murals in Dunhuang, China and Ajanta, India. Some authorities link the paintings to a Goguryeo monk named Tamjing who lived in 7th century Ikaruga, but this is disputed.
Hōryū-ji (Temple of the Flourishing Law) is a Buddhist temple in Ikaruga, Nara Prefecture, Japan. Its full name is Hōryū Gakumonji, or Learning Temple of the Flourishing Law, the complex serving both as a seminary and a monastery.<br/><br/>

In 1993, Hōryū-ji was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name Buddhist Monuments in the Hōryū-ji Area. The Japanese government lists several of its structures, sculptures and artifacts as National Treasures.<br/><br/>

The kondo, or great hall of the temple, dating in part to the 7th century, is famous for its 7th century Buddhist murals. Unfortunately, on January 26, 1949, a fire in the kondo caused very severe damage to the murals, many of which were destroyed.<br/><br/>

The murals of the kondō comprise fifty walls; four larger walls, eight mid-sized walls and thirty-eight small wall areas inside the building. The original murals were removed after the fire incident in 1949 and are kept in storage. Twenty small wall paintings that escaped the fire remain in place, while reproductions have replaced the lost frescoes.
The ancient Horyu-ji frescoes represent Pure Land Shaka, Amida, Miroku and Yakushi Nyorai Bhuddas. There are artistic links with similar murals in Dunhuang, China and Ajanta, India. Some authorities link the paintings to a Goguryeo monk named Tamjing who lived in 7th century Ikaruga, but this is disputed.
Hōryū-ji (Temple of the Flourishing Law) is a Buddhist temple in Ikaruga, Nara Prefecture, Japan. Its full name is Hōryū Gakumonji, or Learning Temple of the Flourishing Law, the complex serving both as a seminary and a monastery.<br/><br/>

In 1993, Hōryū-ji was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name Buddhist Monuments in the Hōryū-ji Area. The Japanese government lists several of its structures, sculptures and artifacts as National Treasures.<br/><br/>

The kondo, or great hall of the temple, dating in part to the 7th century, is famous for its 7th century Buddhist murals. Unfortunately, on January 26, 1949, a fire in the kondo caused very severe damage to the murals, many of which were destroyed.<br/><br/>

The murals of the kondō comprise fifty walls; four larger walls, eight mid-sized walls and thirty-eight small wall areas inside the building. The original murals were removed after the fire incident in 1949 and are kept in storage. Twenty small wall paintings that escaped the fire remain in place, while reproductions have replaced the lost frescoes.
The ancient Horyu-ji frescoes represent Pure Land Shaka, Amida, Miroku and Yakushi Nyorai Bhuddas. There are artistic links with similar murals in Dunhuang, China and Ajanta, India. Some authorities link the paintings to a Goguryeo monk named Tamjing who lived in 7th century Ikaruga, but this is disputed.
Hōryū-ji (Temple of the Flourishing Law) is a Buddhist temple in Ikaruga, Nara Prefecture, Japan. Its full name is Hōryū Gakumonji, or Learning Temple of the Flourishing Law, the complex serving both as a seminary and a monastery.<br/><br/>

In 1993, Hōryū-ji was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name Buddhist Monuments in the Hōryū-ji Area. The Japanese government lists several of its structures, sculptures and artifacts as National Treasures.<br/><br/>

The kondo, or great hall of the temple, dating in part to the 7th century, is famous for its 7th century Buddhist murals. Unfortunately, on January 26, 1949, a fire in the kondo caused very severe damage to the murals, many of which were destroyed.<br/><br/>

The murals of the kondō comprise fifty walls; four larger walls, eight mid-sized walls and thirty-eight small wall areas inside the building. The original murals were removed after the fire incident in 1949 and are kept in storage. Twenty small wall paintings that escaped the fire remain in place, while reproductions have replaced the lost frescoes.
The ancient Horyu-ji frescoes represent Pure Land Shaka, Amida, Miroku and Yakushi Nyorai Bhuddas. There are artistic links with similar murals in Dunhuang, China and Ajanta, India. Some authorities link the paintings to a Goguryeo monk named Tamjing who lived in 7th century Ikaruga, but this is disputed.
Hōryū-ji (Temple of the Flourishing Law) is a Buddhist temple in Ikaruga, Nara Prefecture, Japan. Its full name is Hōryū Gakumonji, or Learning Temple of the Flourishing Law, the complex serving both as a seminary and a monastery.<br/><br/>

In 1993, Hōryū-ji was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name Buddhist Monuments in the Hōryū-ji Area. The Japanese government lists several of its structures, sculptures and artifacts as National Treasures.<br/><br/>

The kondo, or great hall of the temple, dating in part to the 7th century, is famous for its 7th century Buddhist murals. Unfortunately, on January 26, 1949, a fire in the kondo caused very severe damage to the murals, many of which were destroyed.<br/><br/>

The murals of the kondō comprise fifty walls; four larger walls, eight mid-sized walls and thirty-eight small wall areas inside the building. The original murals were removed after the fire incident in 1949 and are kept in storage. Twenty small wall paintings that escaped the fire remain in place, while reproductions have replaced the lost frescoes.
The ancient Horyu-ji frescoes represent Pure Land Shaka, Amida, Miroku and Yakushi Nyorai Bhuddas. There are artistic links with similar murals in Dunhuang, China and Ajanta, India. Some authorities link the paintings to a Goguryeo monk named Tamjing who lived in 7th century Ikaruga, but this is disputed.
Hōryū-ji (Temple of the Flourishing Law) is a Buddhist temple in Ikaruga, Nara Prefecture, Japan. Its full name is Hōryū Gakumonji, or Learning Temple of the Flourishing Law, the complex serving both as a seminary and a monastery.<br/><br/>

In 1993, Hōryū-ji was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name Buddhist Monuments in the Hōryū-ji Area. The Japanese government lists several of its structures, sculptures and artifacts as National Treasures.<br/><br/>

The kondo, or great hall of the temple, dating in part to the 7th century, is famous for its 7th century Buddhist murals. Unfortunately, on January 26, 1949, a fire in the kondo caused very severe damage to the murals, many of which were destroyed.<br/><br/>

The murals of the kondō comprise fifty walls; four larger walls, eight mid-sized walls and thirty-eight small wall areas inside the building. The original murals were removed after the fire incident in 1949 and are kept in storage. Twenty small wall paintings that escaped the fire remain in place, while reproductions have replaced the lost frescoes.
The ancient Horyu-ji frescoes represent Pure Land Shaka, Amida, Miroku and Yakushi Nyorai Bhuddas. There are artistic links with similar murals in Dunhuang, China and Ajanta, India. Some authorities link the paintings to a Goguryeo monk named Tamjing who lived in 7th century Ikaruga, but this is disputed.
Hōryū-ji (Temple of the Flourishing Law) is a Buddhist temple in Ikaruga, Nara Prefecture, Japan. Its full name is Hōryū Gakumonji, or Learning Temple of the Flourishing Law, the complex serving both as a seminary and a monastery.<br/><br/>

In 1993, Hōryū-ji was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name Buddhist Monuments in the Hōryū-ji Area. The Japanese government lists several of its structures, sculptures and artifacts as National Treasures.<br/><br/>

The kondo, or great hall of the temple, dating in part to the 7th century, is famous for its 7th century Buddhist murals. Unfortunately, on January 26, 1949, a fire in the kondo caused very severe damage to the murals, many of which were destroyed.<br/><br/>

The murals of the kondō comprise fifty walls; four larger walls, eight mid-sized walls and thirty-eight small wall areas inside the building. The original murals were removed after the fire incident in 1949 and are kept in storage. Twenty small wall paintings that escaped the fire remain in place, while reproductions have replaced the lost frescoes.
The ancient Horyu-ji frescoes represent Pure Land Shaka, Amida, Miroku and Yakushi Nyorai Bhuddas. There are artistic links with similar murals in Dunhuang, China and Ajanta, India. Some authorities link the paintings to a Goguryeo monk named Tamjing who lived in 7th century Ikaruga, but this is disputed.
Hōryū-ji (Temple of the Flourishing Law) is a Buddhist temple in Ikaruga, Nara Prefecture, Japan. Its full name is Hōryū Gakumonji, or Learning Temple of the Flourishing Law, the complex serving both as a seminary and a monastery.<br/><br/>

In 1993, Hōryū-ji was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name Buddhist Monuments in the Hōryū-ji Area. The Japanese government lists several of its structures, sculptures and artifacts as National Treasures.<br/><br/>

The kondo, or great hall of the temple, dating in part to the 7th century, is famous for its 7th century Buddhist murals. Unfortunately, on January 26, 1949, a fire in the kondo caused very severe damage to the murals, many of which were destroyed.<br/><br/>

The murals of the kondō comprise fifty walls; four larger walls, eight mid-sized walls and thirty-eight small wall areas inside the building. The original murals were removed after the fire incident in 1949 and are kept in storage. Twenty small wall paintings that escaped the fire remain in place, while reproductions have replaced the lost frescoes.
The ancient Horyu-ji frescoes represent Pure Land Shaka, Amida, Miroku and Yakushi Nyorai Bhuddas. There are artistic links with similar murals in Dunhuang, China and Ajanta, India. Some authorities link the paintings to a Goguryeo monk named Tamjing who lived in 7th century Ikaruga, but this is disputed.
Hōryū-ji (Temple of the Flourishing Law) is a Buddhist temple in Ikaruga, Nara Prefecture, Japan. Its full name is Hōryū Gakumonji, or Learning Temple of the Flourishing Law, the complex serving both as a seminary and a monastery.<br/><br/>

In 1993, Hōryū-ji was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name Buddhist Monuments in the Hōryū-ji Area. The Japanese government lists several of its structures, sculptures and artifacts as National Treasures.<br/><br/>

The kondo, or great hall of the temple, dating in part to the 7th century, is famous for its 7th century Buddhist murals. Unfortunately, on January 26, 1949, a fire in the kondo caused very severe damage to the murals, many of which were destroyed.<br/><br/>

The murals of the kondō comprise fifty walls; four larger walls, eight mid-sized walls and thirty-eight small wall areas inside the building. The original murals were removed after the fire incident in 1949 and are kept in storage. Twenty small wall paintings that escaped the fire remain in place, while reproductions have replaced the lost frescoes.
The ancient Horyu-ji frescoes represent Pure Land Shaka, Amida, Miroku and Yakushi Nyorai Bhuddas. There are artistic links with similar murals in Dunhuang, China and Ajanta, India. Some authorities link the paintings to a Goguryeo monk named Tamjing who lived in 7th century Ikaruga, but this is disputed.
Hōryū-ji (Temple of the Flourishing Law) is a Buddhist temple in Ikaruga, Nara Prefecture, Japan. Its full name is Hōryū Gakumonji, or Learning Temple of the Flourishing Law, the complex serving both as a seminary and a monastery.<br/><br/>

In 1993, Hōryū-ji was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name Buddhist Monuments in the Hōryū-ji Area. The Japanese government lists several of its structures, sculptures and artifacts as National Treasures.<br/><br/>

The kondo, or great hall of the temple, dating in part to the 7th century, is famous for its 7th century Buddhist murals. Unfortunately, on January 26, 1949, a fire in the kondo caused very severe damage to the murals, many of which were destroyed.<br/><br/>

The murals of the kondō comprise fifty walls; four larger walls, eight mid-sized walls and thirty-eight small wall areas inside the building. The original murals were removed after the fire incident in 1949 and are kept in storage. Twenty small wall paintings that escaped the fire remain in place, while reproductions have replaced the lost frescoes.
The ancient Horyu-ji frescoes represent Pure Land Shaka, Amida, Miroku and Yakushi Nyorai Bhuddas. There are artistic links with similar murals in Dunhuang, China and Ajanta, India. Some authorities link the paintings to a Goguryeo monk named Tamjing who lived in 7th century Ikaruga, but this is disputed.
Hōryū-ji (Temple of the Flourishing Law) is a Buddhist temple in Ikaruga, Nara Prefecture, Japan. Its full name is Hōryū Gakumonji, or Learning Temple of the Flourishing Law, the complex serving both as a seminary and a monastery.<br/><br/>

In 1993, Hōryū-ji was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name Buddhist Monuments in the Hōryū-ji Area. The Japanese government lists several of its structures, sculptures and artifacts as National Treasures.<br/><br/>

The kondo, or great hall of the temple, dating in part to the 7th century, is famous for its 7th century Buddhist murals. Unfortunately, on January 26, 1949, a fire in the kondo caused very severe damage to the murals, many of which were destroyed.<br/><br/>

The murals of the kondō comprise fifty walls; four larger walls, eight mid-sized walls and thirty-eight small wall areas inside the building. The original murals were removed after the fire incident in 1949 and are kept in storage. Twenty small wall paintings that escaped the fire remain in place, while reproductions have replaced the lost frescoes.
The ancient Horyu-ji frescoes represent Pure Land Shaka, Amida, Miroku and Yakushi Nyorai Bhuddas. There are artistic links with similar murals in Dunhuang, China and Ajanta, India. Some authorities link the paintings to a Goguryeo monk named Tamjing who lived in 7th century Ikaruga, but this is disputed.
Hōryū-ji (Temple of the Flourishing Law) is a Buddhist temple in Ikaruga, Nara Prefecture, Japan. Its full name is Hōryū Gakumonji, or Learning Temple of the Flourishing Law, the complex serving both as a seminary and a monastery.<br/><br/>

In 1993, Hōryū-ji was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name Buddhist Monuments in the Hōryū-ji Area. The Japanese government lists several of its structures, sculptures and artifacts as National Treasures.<br/><br/>

The kondo, or great hall of the temple, dating in part to the 7th century, is famous for its 7th century Buddhist murals. Unfortunately, on January 26, 1949, a fire in the kondo caused very severe damage to the murals, many of which were destroyed.<br/><br/>

The murals of the kondō comprise fifty walls; four larger walls, eight mid-sized walls and thirty-eight small wall areas inside the building. The original murals were removed after the fire incident in 1949 and are kept in storage. Twenty small wall paintings that escaped the fire remain in place, while reproductions have replaced the lost frescoes.
The ancient Horyu-ji frescoes represent Pure Land Shaka, Amida, Miroku and Yakushi Nyorai Bhuddas. There are artistic links with similar murals in Dunhuang, China and Ajanta, India. Some authorities link the paintings to a Goguryeo monk named Tamjing who lived in 7th century Ikaruga, but this is disputed.
Hōryū-ji (Temple of the Flourishing Law) is a Buddhist temple in Ikaruga, Nara Prefecture, Japan. Its full name is Hōryū Gakumonji, or Learning Temple of the Flourishing Law, the complex serving both as a seminary and a monastery.<br/><br/>

In 1993, Hōryū-ji was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name Buddhist Monuments in the Hōryū-ji Area. The Japanese government lists several of its structures, sculptures and artifacts as National Treasures.<br/><br/>

The kondo, or great hall of the temple, dating in part to the 7th century, is famous for its 7th century Buddhist murals. Unfortunately, on January 26, 1949, a fire in the kondo caused very severe damage to the murals, many of which were destroyed.<br/><br/>

The murals of the kondō comprise fifty walls; four larger walls, eight mid-sized walls and thirty-eight small wall areas inside the building. The original murals were removed after the fire incident in 1949 and are kept in storage. Twenty small wall paintings that escaped the fire remain in place, while reproductions have replaced the lost frescoes.
The ancient Horyu-ji frescoes represent Pure Land Shaka, Amida, Miroku and Yakushi Nyorai Bhuddas. There are artistic links with similar murals in Dunhuang, China and Ajanta, India. Some authorities link the paintings to a Goguryeo monk named Tamjing who lived in 7th century Ikaruga, but this is disputed.
Hōryū-ji (Temple of the Flourishing Law) is a Buddhist temple in Ikaruga, Nara Prefecture, Japan. Its full name is Hōryū Gakumonji, or Learning Temple of the Flourishing Law, the complex serving both as a seminary and a monastery.<br/><br/>

In 1993, Hōryū-ji was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name Buddhist Monuments in the Hōryū-ji Area. The Japanese government lists several of its structures, sculptures and artifacts as National Treasures.<br/><br/>

The kondo, or great hall of the temple, dating in part to the 7th century, is famous for its 7th century Buddhist murals. Unfortunately, on January 26, 1949, a fire in the kondo caused very severe damage to the murals, many of which were destroyed.<br/><br/>

The murals of the kondō comprise fifty walls; four larger walls, eight mid-sized walls and thirty-eight small wall areas inside the building. The original murals were removed after the fire incident in 1949 and are kept in storage. Twenty small wall paintings that escaped the fire remain in place, while reproductions have replaced the lost frescoes.
The ancient Horyu-ji frescoes represent Pure Land Shaka, Amida, Miroku and Yakushi Nyorai Bhuddas. There are artistic links with similar murals in Dunhuang, China and Ajanta, India. Some authorities link the paintings to a Goguryeo monk named Tamjing who lived in 7th century Ikaruga, but this is disputed.
Hōryū-ji (Temple of the Flourishing Law) is a Buddhist temple in Ikaruga, Nara Prefecture, Japan. Its full name is Hōryū Gakumonji, or Learning Temple of the Flourishing Law, the complex serving both as a seminary and a monastery.<br/><br/>

In 1993, Hōryū-ji was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name Buddhist Monuments in the Hōryū-ji Area. The Japanese government lists several of its structures, sculptures and artifacts as National Treasures.<br/><br/>

The kondo, or great hall of the temple, dating in part to the 7th century, is famous for its 7th century Buddhist murals. Unfortunately, on January 26, 1949, a fire in the kondo caused very severe damage to the murals, many of which were destroyed.<br/><br/>

The murals of the kondō comprise fifty walls; four larger walls, eight mid-sized walls and thirty-eight small wall areas inside the building. The original murals were removed after the fire incident in 1949 and are kept in storage. Twenty small wall paintings that escaped the fire remain in place, while reproductions have replaced the lost frescoes.
The ancient Horyu-ji frescoes represent Pure Land Shaka, Amida, Miroku and Yakushi Nyorai Bhuddas. There are artistic links with similar murals in Dunhuang, China and Ajanta, India. Some authorities link the paintings to a Goguryeo monk named Tamjing who lived in 7th century Ikaruga, but this is disputed.
Hōryū-ji (Temple of the Flourishing Law) is a Buddhist temple in Ikaruga, Nara Prefecture, Japan. Its full name is Hōryū Gakumonji, or Learning Temple of the Flourishing Law, the complex serving both as a seminary and a monastery.<br/><br/>

In 1993, Hōryū-ji was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name Buddhist Monuments in the Hōryū-ji Area. The Japanese government lists several of its structures, sculptures and artifacts as National Treasures.<br/><br/>

The kondo, or great hall of the temple, dating in part to the 7th century, is famous for its 7th century Buddhist murals. Unfortunately, on January 26, 1949, a fire in the kondo caused very severe damage to the murals, many of which were destroyed.<br/><br/>

The murals of the kondō comprise fifty walls; four larger walls, eight mid-sized walls and thirty-eight small wall areas inside the building. The original murals were removed after the fire incident in 1949 and are kept in storage. Twenty small wall paintings that escaped the fire remain in place, while reproductions have replaced the lost frescoes.
The ancient Horyu-ji frescoes represent Pure Land Shaka, Amida, Miroku and Yakushi Nyorai Bhuddas. There are artistic links with similar murals in Dunhuang, China and Ajanta, India. Some authorities link the paintings to a Goguryeo monk named Tamjing who lived in 7th century Ikaruga, but this is disputed.
Hōryū-ji (Temple of the Flourishing Law) is a Buddhist temple in Ikaruga, Nara Prefecture, Japan. Its full name is Hōryū Gakumonji, or Learning Temple of the Flourishing Law, the complex serving both as a seminary and a monastery.<br/><br/>

In 1993, Hōryū-ji was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name Buddhist Monuments in the Hōryū-ji Area. The Japanese government lists several of its structures, sculptures and artifacts as National Treasures.<br/><br/>

The kondo, or great hall of the temple, dating in part to the 7th century, is famous for its 7th century Buddhist murals. Unfortunately, on January 26, 1949, a fire in the kondo caused very severe damage to the murals, many of which were destroyed.<br/><br/>

The murals of the kondō comprise fifty walls; four larger walls, eight mid-sized walls and thirty-eight small wall areas inside the building. The original murals were removed after the fire incident in 1949 and are kept in storage. Twenty small wall paintings that escaped the fire remain in place, while reproductions have replaced the lost frescoes.
The ancient Horyu-ji frescoes represent Pure Land Shaka, Amida, Miroku and Yakushi Nyorai Bhuddas. There are artistic links with similar murals in Dunhuang, China and Ajanta, India. Some authorities link the paintings to a Goguryeo monk named Tamjing who lived in 7th century Ikaruga, but this is disputed.
Hōryū-ji (Temple of the Flourishing Law) is a Buddhist temple in Ikaruga, Nara Prefecture, Japan. Its full name is Hōryū Gakumonji, or Learning Temple of the Flourishing Law, the complex serving both as a seminary and a monastery.<br/><br/>

In 1993, Hōryū-ji was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name Buddhist Monuments in the Hōryū-ji Area. The Japanese government lists several of its structures, sculptures and artifacts as National Treasures.<br/><br/>

The kondo, or great hall of the temple, dating in part to the 7th century, is famous for its 7th century Buddhist murals. Unfortunately, on January 26, 1949, a fire in the kondo caused very severe damage to the murals, many of which were destroyed.<br/><br/>

The murals of the kondō comprise fifty walls; four larger walls, eight mid-sized walls and thirty-eight small wall areas inside the building. The original murals were removed after the fire incident in 1949 and are kept in storage. Twenty small wall paintings that escaped the fire remain in place, while reproductions have replaced the lost frescoes.
The ancient Horyu-ji frescoes represent Pure Land Shaka, Amida, Miroku and Yakushi Nyorai Bhuddas. There are artistic links with similar murals in Dunhuang, China and Ajanta, India. Some authorities link the paintings to a Goguryeo monk named Tamjing who lived in 7th century Ikaruga, but this is disputed.
Prince Shōtoku (Shōtoku Taishi, 574–622), also known as Prince Umayado, was a regent and a politician of the Asuka period in Japan. He was a member of the ruling Soga clan. Shōtoku was appointed as regent (Sesshō) in 593 by Empress Suiko.<br/><br/>

Shōtoku, inspired by Buddha's teachings, succeeded in establishing a centralized government during his reign. In 603, he established the 12 official ranks at court. He is credited with promulgating a Seventeen-article constitution. The Prince was an ardent Buddhist and composed commentaries on the Lotus Sutra, the Vimalakirti Sutra, and the Sutra of Queen Srimala. He commissioned the Shitennō-ji Temple in Settsu province (present-day Osaka). Shōtoku's name has been linked with Hōryū-ji, a temple in Yamato province. Documentation at Hōryū-ji claims that Suiko and Shōtoku founded the temple in the year 607. Archaeological excavations in 1939 have confirmed that Prince Shōtoku's palace, the Ikaruga-no-miya, stood in the eastern part of the current temple complex, where the Tō-in sits today.<br/><br/>

China's Sui Emperor, Yangdi, dispatched a message in 605 that stated: 'The sovereign of Sui respectfully inquires about the sovereign of Wa'. Shōtoku responded by sponsoring a mission led by Ono no Imoko in 607. The Prince's own message contains the earliest written instance in which the Japanese archipelago is named 'Nihon', literally, sun-origin (country). The salutation stated: 'From the sovereign of the land of the rising sun (nihon/hi izuru) to the sovereign of the land of the setting sun'. He is said to be buried at Shinaga, in the former Kawachi province (today Osaka prefecture).<br/><br/>

Wooden statue in Musee Guimet, Paris, picture by PHGCOM.
Hōryū-ji (Temple of the Flourishing Law) is a Buddhist temple in Ikaruga, Nara Prefecture, Japan. Its full name is Hōryū Gakumonji, or Learning Temple of the Flourishing Law, the complex serving both as a seminary and a monastery.<br/><br/>

In 1993, Hōryū-ji was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name Buddhist Monuments in the Hōryū-ji Area. The Japanese government lists several of its structures, sculptures and artifacts as National Treasures.<br/><br/>

The kondo, or great hall of the temple, dating in part to the 7th century, is famous for its 7th century Buddhist murals. Unfortunately, on January 26, 1949, a fire in the kondo caused very severe damage to the murals, many of which were destroyed.<br/><br/>

The murals of the kondō comprise fifty walls; four larger walls, eight mid-sized walls and thirty-eight small wall areas inside the building. The original murals were removed after the fire incident in 1949 and are kept in storage. Twenty small wall paintings that escaped the fire remain in place, while reproductions have replaced the lost frescoes.
The ancient Horyu-ji frescoes represent Pure Land Shaka, Amida, Miroku and Yakushi Nyorai Bhuddas. There are artistic links with similar murals in Dunhuang, China and Ajanta, India. Some authorities link the paintings to a Goguryeo monk named Tamjing who lived in 7th century Ikaruga, but this is disputed.
Hōryū-ji (Temple of the Flourishing Law) is a Buddhist temple in Ikaruga, Nara Prefecture, Japan. Its full name is Hōryū Gakumonji, or Learning Temple of the Flourishing Law, the complex serving both as a seminary and a monastery.<br/><br/>

In 1993, Hōryū-ji was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name Buddhist Monuments in the Hōryū-ji Area. The Japanese government lists several of its structures, sculptures and artifacts as National Treasures.<br/><br/>

The kondo, or great hall of the temple, dating in part to the 7th century, is famous for its 7th century Buddhist murals. Unfortunately, on January 26, 1949, a fire in the kondo caused very severe damage to the murals, many of which were destroyed.<br/><br/>

The murals of the kondō comprise fifty walls; four larger walls, eight mid-sized walls and thirty-eight small wall areas inside the building. The original murals were removed after the fire incident in 1949 and are kept in storage. Twenty small wall paintings that escaped the fire remain in place, while reproductions have replaced the lost frescoes.
The ancient Horyu-ji frescoes represent Pure Land Shaka, Amida, Miroku and Yakushi Nyorai Bhuddas. There are artistic links with similar murals in Dunhuang, China and Ajanta, India. Some authorities link the paintings to a Goguryeo monk named Tamjing who lived in 7th century Ikaruga, but this is disputed.
Prince Shōtoku (Shōtoku Taishi, 574–622), also known as Prince Umayado, was a regent and a politician of the Asuka period in Japan. He was a member of the ruling Soga clan. Shōtoku was appointed as regent (Sesshō) in 593 by Empress Suiko.<br/><br/>

Shōtoku, inspired by Buddha's teachings, succeeded in establishing a centralized government during his reign. In 603, he established the 12 official ranks at court. He is credited with promulgating a Seventeen-article constitution. The Prince was an ardent Buddhist and composed commentaries on the Lotus Sutra, the Vimalakirti Sutra, and the Sutra of Queen Srimala. He commissioned the Shitennō-ji Temple in Settsu province (present-day Osaka). Shōtoku's name has been linked with Hōryū-ji, a temple in Yamato province. Documentation at Hōryū-ji claims that Suiko and Shōtoku founded the temple in the year 607. Archaeological excavations in 1939 have confirmed that Prince Shōtoku's palace, the Ikaruga-no-miya, stood in the eastern part of the current temple complex, where the Tō-in sits today.<br/><br/>

China's Sui Emperor, Yangdi, dispatched a message in 605 that stated: 'The sovereign of Sui respectfully inquires about the sovereign of Wa'. Shōtoku responded by sponsoring a mission led by Ono no Imoko in 607. The Prince's own message contains the earliest written instance in which the Japanese archipelago is named 'Nihon', literally, sun-origin (country). The salutation stated: 'From the sovereign of the land of the rising sun (nihon/hi izuru) to the sovereign of the land of the setting sun'. He is said to be buried at Shinaga, in the former Kawachi province (today Osaka prefecture).
Hōryū-ji (Temple of the Flourishing Law) is a Buddhist temple in Ikaruga, Nara Prefecture, Japan. Its full name is Hōryū Gakumonji, or Learning Temple of the Flourishing Law, the complex serving both as a seminary and a monastery.<br/><br/>

In 1993, Hōryū-ji was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name Buddhist Monuments in the Hōryū-ji Area. The Japanese government lists several of its structures, sculptures and artifacts as National Treasures.<br/><br/>

The kondo, or great hall of the temple, dating in part to the 7th century, is famous for its 7th century Buddhist murals. Unfortunately, on January 26, 1949, a fire in the kondo caused very severe damage to the murals, many of which were destroyed.<br/><br/>

The murals of the kondō comprise fifty walls; four larger walls, eight mid-sized walls and thirty-eight small wall areas inside the building. The original murals were removed after the fire incident in 1949 and are kept in storage. Twenty small wall paintings that escaped the fire remain in place, while reproductions have replaced the lost frescoes.
The ancient Horyu-ji frescoes represent Pure Land Shaka, Amida, Miroku and Yakushi Nyorai Bhuddas. There are artistic links with similar murals in Dunhuang, China and Ajanta, India. Some authorities link the paintings to a Goguryeo monk named Tamjing who lived in 7th century Ikaruga, but this is disputed.