Gangoji

“Gangoji” is located in Nara City, the north part of Nara prefecture. Previously known as Horyuji—the oldest wooden building in Japan― it was renamed Gangoji when it was moved to the current location. In 1998, it was added to the list of world heritage sites as part of “Important Cultural Assets of Ancient Nara.”
“Gokurakudo” and “Gokurakubo zen room” in the temple grounds are designated as National Treasures. The tiles of the roofs of the two buildings are from Asuka period when they were originally built and are still intact, showcasing its 1300 years of history. A unique style called “Gyokibuki” is used on the roofs.
The area around Gangoji is called “Naramachi” and plenty of good old traditional sides of Japan remain in this town. In a section ranging approximately 400 meters south and north and 220 meters east and west are town houses built in the Edo period. Some of the old houses have been turned into variety goods stores, workshops and restaurants.