Gansenji Temple

Gansenji is said to have been founded in 729 by decree of Emperor Shomu. A three-storey pagoda stands as if wrapped in deep green, and the main hall keeps its aged patina — together they give the temple the feel of a genuine mountain retreat. At the entrance to the gate lies a boat-shaped rock said to be the origin of the temple's name, which monks are said to have used for bathing. Flowers colour the grounds through the year, and in June the hydrangeas are lovely.