Nenbutsushu Sampozan Muryojuji Temple

  This hall is dedicated to Prince Shotoku (574-622) known as the Master of Buddhism in Japan. It is a grand octagonal shrine with four-stepped intermediate bracket complexes under the eaves and three-stepped bracket complexes under the veranda. Inside the hall is painted with rich colors using traditional painting techniques of ancient Korea, by Most Ven. Lee Man Bong, a living national treasure of Korea, together with his head pupil Mr. Hong Chang Won.
  Prince Shotoku, having realized the value of the Buddhist teachings transmitted from India to China, accepted and enrooted Buddhism in Japan. Thus he is known as the founding father of Buddhism in Japan. He stated the importance of practicing Buddhism in the Seventeen-article constitution, the Japan’s first written code of laws, which he enacted based on teachings of Lord Buddha. Transcending the time of 1,400 years, his spirit is still alive and appreciated here.
  The hall is surrounded by exquisite Japanese gardens with renowned podocarpus trees, and its appearance possesses the graceful elegance of Asuka and Tempyo style in the ancient days of Japan. The statue of Prince Shotoku carved by Mr. She Guo Ping, a living national treasure of China, is housed in a miniature shrine on which raised works of Wajima lacquer and chased gold are applied.