Gangoji Temple was originally built in 593 by SOGANO Umako, who was a leader of the novel family at the end of the Kofun Age and the beginning of the Asuka Age in the sixth century. SOGANO Umako assassinated Emperor SUSHUN and the SOGA family controlled emperors.

The SOGA family believed in Buddhism and built Gangoji. Buddhism was introduced to Japan in the 5th century. Gangoji Temple was one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan and one of the seven largest temples in the Nara Age.

From Kofukuji Temple, you will first come to the North Gate of Gangoji Temple. When you turn to the left at the North Gate, you will arrive at the East Gate, which is the entrance of Gangoji Temple. The East Gate was originally a gate of Todaiji Temple, and was moved to this place in 1411.

After going in Gangoji Temple, you will see the Main Hall of Gokuraku-Bo in front of you and also the Zen Meditation Hall behind the Main Hall. In Japanese, "Gokuraku" means paradise. It may mean that Buddha promises paradise for those who believe in Buddhism.

These buildings were originally monasteries of Gangoji Temple and were converted to the current style of buildings in 1244. The west side roof of the Main Hall is the original one being more than 1400 years old.

The west side of the Main Hall

With the light of the setting sun, the color of the roof of Main Hall delicately changed and was very impressive.

In front of Zen Meditation Hall, many stone statues are there.

These stone statues will make your mind calm and peaceful.

Gangoji Temple is approximately a 15 minute walk from Kintetsu-Nara Station.
Approximately a 20 minute walk from JR Nara Station.

Kofukuji Temple
Todaiji Temple