Japan's Treasure: Horyu-ji

In a beautiful setting of pine trees in a courtyard, stands a group of the oldest wooden buildings in the world. The sun adds a touch of gold to the gray tile roofs.

Horyu-ji

Atop a five-story pagoda, or tower, is a shape decorated with 9 small umbrellas. The umbrellas are a symbol of Buddha, after whom one of the world's great religion was named. The religion is called Buddhism.

This peaceful place in Ikaruga, Japan is known as Horyu-ji. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it's the main temple of a sect, or group of Buddhists. The group is named for the prince who build the temple more than a thousand years ago. The name of the sect and the prince is Shotoku.

The people of Japan really treasure Horyu-ji. It contains many National Treasures. In Japan, National Treasures include buildings, paintings, sculptures and other art objects. So, besides being the oldest Buddhist temple in Japan, Horyu-ji is also a museum - a treasure house filled with priceless art.