Built in 603, Koryuji is the oldest temple in Kyoto. It mainly venerates Miroku Bosatsu (Maitreya), whose statue was donated by Prince Shotoku, and was the first designated National Treasure. There are many other National Treasures and important cultural artifacts in the temple, such as the statues of the 12 gods (Junishinshoryuzo). The "Cattle Festival," held in this temple during October, is one of the three major festivals in Kyoto.