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- Kami-no-Midō
Nishimuro and Hall of Three Sutras (Sangyoin)
The Nishimuro, which was originally a living quarters for temple priests, are located to the west of the covered corridor of the western precinct of Horyuji. The structures were lost in a fire that occurred sometime between the years 1077 and 1081. The Hall of Three Sutras was built on the southern side of the structure in 1231 while the Nishimuro was rebuilt in 1268. The Hall of Three Sutras, known as the Sangyoin in Japanese, takes its name from the Sangyō Gishō, or Annotated Commentaries on the Three Sutras. These commentaries on Buddhist texts are attributed to Shotoku Taishi (574–622), the founder of Horyuji Temple. One of the teachings found in these writings is the belief that all living beings will find enlightenment. The commentaries date to the year 615, making them possibly the oldest extant writings in Japan. Every year from May 16 to August 15, lectures known as Ango are held at the Nishimuro, and temple priests lecture on the sutra commentaries that make up the Sangyō Gishō.
Kami no Mido
According to temple records, Prince Toneri (676–735), son of Emperor Tenmu (631–686), commissioned the construction of the original Kami no Mido. However, this structure would later collapse, possibly due to damage inflicted by a typhoon. The current Kami no Mido dates from the Kamakura period (1185–1333) when it was reconstructed.
Inside the hall is a statue of Shakyamuni, the historical Buddha, flanked by two bodhisattvas, all of which date from the Heian period (794–1185). The hall also houses statues of the Four Heavenly Kings (Shitenno). This set of statues was made in the Muromachi period (1136–1573) and serve to protect the Buddha. This hall is open for viewing from November 1 to November 3 every year.