Visit Nara

Although Gangoji Temple has been in its current location since 718 AD, it was actually the first temple in Japan, partly built in Asuka around 588 AD, before being relocated when Heijokyo became the new capital. It originally extended over much of Naramachi, until fires destroyed many of the original buildings. What survives is the large main hall, a Zen hall and a miniature pagoda that stands just over five meters tall. The pagoda is a National Treasure from the Tempyo era, and classified as a building, not an artifact; it could be Japan’s smallest building.