Gangoji
Naramachi · Nara
Address: 11 Chūin-chō, Nara 630-8392
When the capital moved to Heijō-kyō, Hōkō-ji (Asuka-dera), Japan's first full-scale temple complex, was rebuilt here as the state temple Gangoji. What survives is part of its monks' quarters: the National Treasure Gokuraku-dō and Zenshitsu, listed with the Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara World Heritage Site, and the temple also keeps a National Treasure miniature five-storey pagoda; the Naramachi district grew up over its former precinct. The Hōrinkan storehouses show the temple's treasures, including more than 60,000 folk-religion objects designated an Important Tangible Folk Cultural Property, and hold an autumn special exhibition. Fifteen minutes' walk from Kintetsu Nara Station.
Exhibitions
- Gods of Naramachi: Gangoji's Guardian Shrines and the Town's Deities — Gangoji · Nara · –