Hōryū-ji Temple in Ikaruga City, Nara Prefecture, houses the world’s oldest wooden structures, many of which have stood for well over 1,400 years. It’s believed they were constructed sometime between 552-710, undergoing various repairs and renovations over the centuries. A pine tree-lined avenue leads to the towering main gate. Beyond that gate is the temple’s courtyard. This is where the main hall or main temple and a five-story pagoda are located. The pagoda is the oldest structure at the complex. The wood reportedly came from a tree cut down in 594….
