Such a fund-raising effort is common among temples when they plan to repair and renovate cultural artifacts. But what is concerning about Horyuji temple is that it has to rely on outside donations to help cover the sheer daily costs of maintaining its compound. Shobo Ono, chief administrator of the temple, said while temple officials are worried about how the public will perceive the fund-raising effort, it has no other option. "We want to prepare the temple to receive many visitors when the pandemic is under control," he said. "Visits by worshippers will be the biggest assistance to us." The temple, Japan's first to be named a World Heritage site, will mark the 30th anniversary of the listing next year. Currently, the famed temple appears to be in a condition that is not befitting the prestigious designation.
