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Hoko-ji (Asuka-dera), the first authentic temple in Japan,was originally built for praying to the glory of the Soga family, but it became a state-sponsored temple when it was moved to the ancient capital of Heijyo-kyo. The temple name was also changed from Hoko-ji (Asuka-dera) to Gangoji while being moved and rebuilt. This is the place where the first Buddhist temple was built in Japan.
Experience
This is the photo gallery of Gangoji. See the temple’s expressions changing seasonally.
“Read”
Contents include a collection of artifacts and the image of a Chiko mandala (a diagram that depicts Buddhist deities according to certain geometric formats and illustrated the Buddhist world view).
“Watch”
Explore the special exhibitions, Hotoke (Buddha) and the temple buildings
Set in the land of beginnings with a history spanning 1,300 years,
Gangoji is a National Treasure and World Heritage Site of Nara.