Head temple of the Ryosenji Shingon sect, founded in 736 at the imperial vow of Emperor Shomu by the monks Gyoki and the Indian monk Bodhisena. The Kamakura-period main hall is a National Treasure regarded as a masterpiece of traditional Japanese (wayo) architecture. The rose garden — planted with 2,000 roses in 200 varieties and opened in prayer for world peace — draws many visitors during its bl…

Ryosenji Temple in Nara is traditionally said to have been founded in 736 CE (the 8th year of the Tenpyo era) by the monk Gyoki and the Indian Buddhist monk Bodhisena, at the imperial vow of Emperor Shomu. The temple's name and founding spirit are said to derive from Gridhrakuta (Vulture Peak) in In…