Gango-ji Temple

UNESCO World Heritage

元興寺

Gango-ji is a Buddhist temple in Nara. Its predecessor was Hokoji, also called Asuka-dera, in Asuka Village. Some roof tiles from the Asuka and Nara periods are still in use on its buildings today. The Gokurakudo Hall and the Zen Room are both National Treasures. Gango-ji was registered in 1998 as part of the UNESCO World Heritage site "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara".

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Visitor information

Opening hours

Open 9:00–17:00 (last entry 16:30).

Closed

Open all year.

Admission

Adults ¥500, elementary school students ¥100. During autumn special exhibitions the adult fee is ¥600.

Getting there

About a 15-minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station, or a 5-minute walk from the "Fukuchiin-cho" bus stop.

About a 20-minute walk from JR Nara Station, or a 5-minute walk from the "Tanaka-cho" bus stop.

Hours and fees can change. Please check the official website before you go.

Tips for Muslim visitors

The main object of worship in the Gokuraku-do hall is Amida Buddha in the Chiko Mandala; visitors may simply look around.
Buddhist temples welcome visitors of all faiths. You can enjoy the buildings and gardens without joining any prayer, burning incense or buying charms.
Many halls ask you to take off your shoes. Wear socks and shoes that are easy to slip off, and keep a bag for your shoes if none is provided.
Photography is often not allowed inside halls. Follow the signs and ask staff if you are unsure.
Plan your visit around prayer times. Below are today's prayer times for Nara and the verified places to pray nearby.
Food stalls and shops near popular sights usually do not have halal certification. Check the ingredients, or choose from the verified places on this site.