Gangō-ji is a Buddhist temple located in the city of Nara, Japan. It is considered one of the oldest temples in the country and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple was established in the 6th century by Prince Shotoku, a powerful political and religious figure in Japanese history. Gangō-ji was originally built as a place for monks to study and practice Buddhism, and over the years, it has become an important cultural and historical landmark in Japan.

The history of Gangō-ji can be traced back to the Asuka period, which lasted from the late 6th century to the early 8th century. During this time, Prince Shotoku was a major influence in the development of Buddhism in Japan. He established many temples and encouraged the spread of the religion throughout the country. Gangō-ji was one of the first temples built by Prince Shotoku and served as a center of learning for Buddhist monks.

The original buildings of Gangō-ji were destroyed several times due to war and natural disasters, but the temple was always rebuilt. Today, many of the buildings that stand at Gangō-ji date back to the Edo period (1603-1868). The main hall, or hondō, is particularly impressive and is considered a national treasure. It features a unique architectural style that blends Japanese and Chinese elements.

In addition to its historic buildings, Gangō-ji is also known for its beautiful gardens. The temple grounds feature several different gardens, each with its own unique style and design. The gardens were created by skilled craftsmen and are considered some of the finest examples of Japanese garden design.