Horyuji Temple Hall of Dreams

JAPAN, Nara, Ikoma

The Hall of Dreams was established by Master Gyoshin in 739 during the Nara period and was reconstructed in 1230 during the Kamakura period. It is the main hall in the eastern section of the Horyuji Temple compound and is the oldest octagonal hall in Japan. It was listed as a National Treasure in 1951.
The octagonal hall is built on a two-layer base platform with steps on four sides. It is surrounded by low balustrades. It has a single-eave octagonal pyramidal roof covered with cylindrical tiles. There are doors on four sides of the structure, with windows in between. In the center of the roof there is a gilt bronze harmika topped by a canopy and jewel. This spire is finely crafted and detailed. Although some of the structure has been replaced, its original appearance is preserved and retains many common features of octagonal halls from the Nara period (710–794).
Within the hall there is a Sumeru throne made of volcanic rock. In the center there is a shrine housing a gilt camphor wood statue of a standing Avalokitesvara resembling Prince Shotoku. On either side there are seated statues of Master Gyoshin and Master Dosen, who revived the eastern section of Horyuji Temple during the early Heian period (794–1185). The temple’s contents are all considered National Treasures.