Shitenno-ji Gojunoto (Five Story Pagoda) — Attraction in Osaka

The Five-storied Pagoda at Horyuji Temple is the oldest pagoda of this type in Japan and one of the oldest surviving wooden towers in the world. It was erected during the Asuka period (593–710) to enshrine sacred relics of the Buddha. The bones and ashes of Shakyamuni, the historical Buddha, were distributed among his followers after he died some 2,500 years ago. A portion of these remains are said to be entombed about three meters below the base of the pagoda today. The base displays a series of four tableaux depicting scenes from the Buddha’s story. On the north side, he is depicted passing into Nirvana while his disciples surround him in mourning. The pagoda is approximately 32.5 meters tall from the base and its central pillar is made from a Japanese cypress tree felled in 594. This pillar runs through the tower’s five tiers which use flexible wooden joints to help the structure absorb the seismic energy of Japan’s frequent...

We went there on a Sunday afternoon and there were no throngs of people. It was good opportunity to peacefully enjoy the architecture of this beautiful 6th century temple. This is one of Japan's oldest temples and the first ever to be built by the state. It was founded in 593 by Prince Shotoku, who supported the introduction of Buddhism into Japan. Although the temple's buildings burned down several times throughout the centuries, they were always carefully reconstructed to reflect the original 6th...

Tranquil, beautiful, serene. Pity that when i was there the main building was under renovation. The tower is simply beautiful. Love the river stone covered ground around the tower, it has this very Japanesy vibe. You can climb up to the top of the tower, not much to see though as windows are so small. Stairs are narrow, not great for...