[Trivia] A quiz of fun facts about Horyu-ji. Multiple-choice questions (three options) about this historic structure.
Horyu-ji, designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan, is a traditional Japanese structure.
As a Buddhist temple built in a classical architectural style, it has a long and profound history and is also inscribed as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site.
Many people may be interested in Horyu-ji, which both conveys the culture of the Asuka period and is beloved by the Japanese.
In this article, we would like to introduce a quiz that will deepen your knowledge and trivia about Horyu-ji.
Give it a try and pick up handy facts across a wide range of topics, from historical architecture to the cultural background of the time.
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[Trivia] A quiz about Horyu-ji: multiple-choice questions (1–10) on this historic architectural site
What kind of event is Hōryū-ji’s Oeshiki?
- Flower Festival held on the Vernal Equinox Day
- A ritual for welcoming the spirits of one’s ancestors during Obon
- A Buddhist memorial service held on Prince Shōtoku’s death anniversary
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A Buddhist memorial service held on Prince Shōtoku’s death anniversary
The memorial service at Horyu-ji is held each year on the anniversary of the death of Crown Prince Umayado (Umayado no Mikoto, known as Prince Shotoku), who is revered as Prince Shotoku and served as regent to Empress Suiko. Numerous monks gather for this event to offer sutra chanting and prayers in honor of Prince Shotoku’s achievements.
What style of architecture is Horyu-ji built in?
- cast iron
- stone (made of stone); stone-built; masonry
- wooden; wooden construction; made of wood
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wooden; wooden construction; made of wood
Horyu-ji is the world’s oldest surviving group of wooden buildings, constructed in the Asuka period. Its construction techniques and traditions had a major influence on later Japanese architecture. All the principal structures are built of wood.
What is another name for Horyu-ji?
- Kongō-ji Temple
- Ikaruga-dera Temple
- Daikyoku-ji Temple
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Ikaruga-dera Temple
Horyu-ji is also called Ikaruga-dera. This name comes from the fact that the area where Horyu-ji is located is known as Ikaruga. The place name is also the name of Ikaruga Town, where the temple stands. Horyu-ji was founded in the era of Empress Suiko and is said to have been greatly developed by Prince Shotoku, making it a temple of great historical significance.
[Trivia] Quiz about Horyu-ji Temple. Multiple-choice questions (3 options) on historical architecture (11–20)
What is the name of the gate where the Kongōrikishi statues at Hōryū-ji are standing?
- Namdaemun
- Nishienbō Gate
- Middle gate
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Middle gate
At Horyu-ji Temple, the Kongorikishi statues stand at the gate called the Chumon (Middle Gate). The Chumon is an important gate that connects the outer and inner precincts, and the Kongorikishi statues are installed as guardian figures to protect the gate.
When did Horyu-ji burn down once?
- the year 554
- the year 670
- 710 AD
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the year 670
Horyu-ji burned down in the year 670. The fire occurred during the reign of Emperor Tenji. The temple was later rebuilt and has since become a beloved site for many people. Even though more than 1,350 years have passed since the conflagration, Horyu-ji remains a valuable heritage site that reveals the sophistication of the architecture of the time, and it continues to be studied by many historians and architectural scholars.
What is the name of the stone in front of the stone steps at the South Gate of Horyu-ji?
- Seiryu stone
- white tiger stone
- Taiishi
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Taiishi
The stone in front of Horyuji’s South Gate is called “Tai-ishi” (Sea Bream Stone). According to legend, after a river overflowed and a great flood occurred in the past, a single sea bream was left there when the waters receded. The hidden roots of Horyuji’s mysteries are famous for having many different theories.
How tall is the five-story pagoda of Horyu-ji Temple?
- about 15 meters
- about 32 meters
- about 48 meters
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about 32 meters
The five-story pagoda at Horyu-ji stands about 32 meters tall. Its five-tiered structure was built with meticulously calculated dimensions down to the finest details. This tower, a culmination of traditional Japanese wooden architecture, is recognized for its value as a World Heritage site.