Shitennoji temple was built about 1,400 years ago by Prince Shotoku, who supported the introduction of Buddhism into Japan, to enshrine the Four Heavenly Kings, and it is the oldest national temple of Buddhism in Japan. The layout-style where the Nakamon gate, five-storied pagoda, Kondo (main hall) and Kodo hall are distributed in one straight line surrounded by the corridor is called "Shitennoji-style temple layout," one of the oldest architectural styles of Japan. In the vast precinct of the total area of approximately 110,000 m2 (27 acres), there are many attractions including the Taishi-den where Prince Shotoku is enshrined and the Gokuraku-jodo Garden. The Tennoji Bugaku (court dance and music) performed on April 22 every year in memory of Prince Shotoku has been designated as a National Important Intangible Folk Property. Joya-no-Kane (bells ringing out the old year) on New Year's Eve tells people the arrival of the new year.