Online dictionary of history and traditions in Japan: Japanese pagoda

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French version

Japanese pagoda

五重塔
alternative words: Gojunoto, Gojuunotou, Goju-no-to, Goju no to, Gojuu no tou, 5 storied pagoda, Five storied pagoda, Five story pagoda
keywords: architecture
related topics: Asuka period
related web sites: http://www.hikyaku.com/gallery/english/horyuji.htm , http://www.hikyaku.com/gallery/english/yakusji.htm
explanation: 5 storied wooden tower in Buddhist architecture. Introduced from China with Buddhism during Asuka period, its main function is enshrining Buddha's relic (but it is purely fictive in Japanese architecture). The oldest tower still remaining is at Horyuji Temple dated from the early Nara period (initial tower of Asuka period had been burned out), while the tallest is at Toji Temple (55m high). Some temples have erected 2 towers to keep a symmetry plan like Yakushiji Temple and Todaiji Temple.