Shitennoji Temple — Japan's First Buddhist Temple (593 CE)

**Temple architecture:** The garan (五重塔 five-story pagoda, 金堂 main hall, 講堂 lecture hall) represents Asuka-period Buddhist architecture — Chinese-influenced symmetry, tile roofs, vermillion columns. While the buildings are concrete reconstructions (latest rebuild 1963 after WWII damage), the proportions and layout follow original 593 design. Compare with Horyuji Temple in Nara (original 7th-century wooden structures survive) to see authentic Asuka-period architecture. **Flea market value:** The 21st monthly flea market (regardless of day of week) attracts 10,000+ visitors and 300+ vendors. Items: antique kimono (¥3,000–30,000), ceramics (¥500–10,000), woodblock prints (¥1,000–20,000), Buddhist altar goods, vintage cameras, and junk. Serious collectors arrive at 8:00am for first pick; casual browsers can come 10:00–14:00. Bargaining is acceptable at this market (unusual for Japan) — ask for 10–20% discount on marked prices. **Gokurakujodo Garden:** The temple's Pure Land Garden (極楽浄土の庭, included in ¥300 ticket) recreates Buddhist paradise imagery — pond representing lotus-filled Pure Land, islands symbolizing Mount Horai (immortals' mountain), and stone arrangements representing Buddhist cosmology. The garden is meditative space designed for contemplating afterlife; sit on benches and observe the symbolism.