Gango-ji Temple is one of the Seven Great Temples of Nara, a group of the most significant Buddhist sites in the city. Step inside to see an array of Japanese National Treasures. Visit Gango-ji Temple for a marvelous showcase of art, spiritual devotion and serenity in Nara’s old merchant’s quarter.
The temple was built as Hoko-ji Temple in the village of Asuka in A.D. 588. It is the nation’s oldest authentic temple. See it in its current location, established in 718 shortly after the declaration of Heijyo-kyo, modern-day Nara, as Japan’s capital. Once covering a large part of the Naramachi neighborhood, some of its buildings were lost to fire damage during the mid 1400s.
Pass through the 15th-century East Gate into an area of complete tranquility. At the heart of the complex stand the restored Gokurakubō main hall and Zen Room, both of which once served as monks’ living quarters. Step inside the main hall to find the miniature Goju-shoto five-story pagoda, which is a Japanese National Treasure and model for the pagodas of Nara. Browse exquisite wooden Buddhas and bodhisattvas from the Heian, Muromachi, Kamakura and Edo eras.
Stroll around the temple grounds to spot dozens of Futoden, which are centuries-old ornamental stone pagodas and tombstones. Look for a stone-carved Buddha footprint from the Sinhala Kingdom and a rock engraved with a Manyo poem from 738. Also of interest are the tea ceremony room and the unearthed cornerstones of ancient halls.
Festivals and religious events bring color to the temple year round. Admire flower displays created to celebrate Buddha’s birthday in the spring. Visit in late August, when monks and Buddhist followers honor the Jizo bodhisattva and commemorate the end of summer by lighting 10,000 prayer candles.
Gango-ji Temple is open daily and has an admission fee. Walk here in less than 20 minutes from the Kintetsu Nara or JR Nara train station. Free on-site parking is available if you drive. Find a schedule of events on the temple’s official website.
