Introduction of Attractions

World Heritage Site Gangoji Temple

One of Japan's oldest temples, it is an important center of Buddhist culture and is home to beautiful gardens and historical buildings.

Gangoji Temple was founded in 718 as one of the Seven Great Temples of Heijo, along with the relocation of the capital to Heijo-kyo, and was formerly Hoko-ji Temple, the oldest temple in Japan. As a medieval temple, a section of the monks' quarters was rebuilt as a training hall, and it remains a national treasure to this day. In 1998, it was registered as a World Heritage Site as one of the cultural assets of the ancient capital of Nara.

This pass cannot be used during the autumn special exhibition.
* October 25, 2025 (Sat) - November 16, 2025 (Sun)

More Information

Facility name

World Heritage Site Gangoji Temple

location

11 Nakaincho, Nara City, Nara Prefecture

contact address

0742-23-1377

access

15-minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station

20-minute walk from JR Nara Station

5-minute walk from Nara Kotsu Bus Fukuchiin-cho stop

5-minute walk from Tanakamachi bus stop

Opening hours

9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

(However, entry to the mountain is permitted until 4:30 pm.)

Regular Holiday

none

Admission fee

Adults: 700 yen

Other fees

none

Parking fee

none

others

Cannot be used during the Autumn Special Exhibition (usually from late October to mid-November)

Please use the East Gate Parking Lot. Free parking for up to 10 cars.

Eating and drinking are prohibited within the temple grounds