484 Ioka, Gose City, Nara Prefecture
Rating
Cost per person
¥500
Funayado Temple, founded in 725 by the monk Gyoki, is a serene temple in Gose, Nara, known for its beautiful strolling garden and vibrant displays of azaleas and rhododendrons. Legend says Gyoki was instructed in a dream to enshrine Yakushi Nyorai on a boat-shaped rock in the mountains, hence the temple's name. The temple also features a rock shrine dedicated to Iwafune Gongen. The best time to visit is around Golden Week in May when the flowers are in full bloom. Easily accessible by bus from Kintetsu Gose Station, it offers stunning panoramic views and a peaceful atmosphere.
From the Funayado Temple pamphlet: Founded Nara Period