Exploring Gango-ji: The Historical Temple in Nara with Over 1,300 Years of Legacy - Japan Travel Sights

Nara, Japan, is home to many historically significant temples, and Gango-ji stands out as one of the oldest. As part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara,” Gango-ji offers a unique window into Japan’s cultural and architectural history.

Gango-ji, originally called “Asuka-dera,” was moved to Nara during the Heijō period. Over 1,300 years later, this ancient temple still fascinates visitors with its serene atmosphere and centuries-old artifacts.

Here are five must-see sites at Gango-ji:

1. Gokuraku-do Hall

The Gokuraku-do Hall is the main building of Gango-ji and is an integral part of Nara’s rich cultural heritage. This hall, which was originally a monk’s residence, now houses several important Buddhist statues and is designated a World Cultural Heritage site.

One of the most fascinating aspects of this hall is the age of the roof tiles. These tiles, some of which date back to the Asuka period, are the oldest surviving roof tiles in Japan. Visitors can see these ancient tiles on the western side of the roof, where they stand out because of their slightly uneven arrangement compared to the rest of the roof.

2. Zen Room

The Zen Room, located adjacent to the Gokuraku-do Hall, is another designated World Heritage site. Historically, it was connected to the Gokuraku-do, forming one large building.

The Zen Room was used as a monks’ residence during its early years and later transformed into various purposes, including a guest hall, schoolhouse, and temple classroom.

Today, visitors can appreciate its historical significance and architecture, which still features unique elements like the uneven roofing seen on the Gokuraku-do.

3. Tairaku-ken Teahouse

Unlike the ancient halls, Tairaku-ken is a relatively new addition to Gango-ji, built in 1994.

This teahouse consists of a four-and-a-half-tatami-mat room and a three-mat water room, designed and crafted by the renowned Yamatodaiku master, Kawasaki Yugen.

The teahouse is a fine example of traditional Japanese craftsmanship, where no nails are used, and each piece of wood is meticulously joined. It is not open to casual visitors but can be reserved for special occasions.

4. Futo-den (Stone Buddha and Pagoda Garden)

Located near the Gokuraku-do Hall, the Futo-den is an open area containing over 1,000 stone Buddhas and pagodas collected from Gango-ji and nearby regions.

These statues, mostly dating from the Kamakura to the Edo period, form an impressive sight, especially with Gango-ji’s historic halls as the backdrop.

In summer, this area becomes especially beautiful when bellflowers bloom between the stones, and in autumn, the scene is equally captivating with blooming bush clover and spider lilies.

5. Special Exhibitions at Gango-ji

While Gango-ji’s halls don’t house many statues, the temple’s treasures are kept at the Houko-kan Museum.

Here, visitors can admire some of the temple’s most prized artifacts, including the “Five-Story Pagoda” (a national treasure) and the “Wooden Amitabha Buddha.”

Many of these historical treasures are displayed only during special exhibitions, so it’s worth checking the museum’s schedule in advance to catch these rare exhibits.

Conclusion

A visit to Gango-ji Temple offers a rich experience of Japan’s cultural and spiritual history.

From the Gokuraku-do Hall’s ancient roof tiles to the peaceful Futo-den garden, each corner of this temple has a story to tell.

Don’t forget to check for special exhibitions at the Houko-kan Museum during your visit to see some of Japan’s most treasured artifacts up close.

For more details on opening hours and access, visit Gango-ji’s official website.