Gangoji Temple

Gango-ji Temple is located in the historic Naramachi district of Nara City. Its origins date back to the Asuka period, when Soga no Umako founded Hoko-ji Temple in Asuka. With the relocation of the capital to Nara in 718, the temple was moved and renamed Gango-ji. Like its predecessor, it served as a center of learning and cultural exchange with the Asian continent. Although it flourished until the early Heian period, the temple gradually declined and became a place of spiritual support for common people. Over time, its scale changed as it was influenced by various powers. Today, Gango-ji embodies the deep history of Naramachi. Highlights include the National Treasure Gokuraku-do Hall, the National Treasure Zen Room associated with Kobo Daishi, and roof tiles preserved since the Asuka period. Annual events include the unique Setsubun ceremony in February and the Mantokuyo lantern memorial service in August.