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Kofuku-ji Temple: Nara's Historic Landmark

Explore Nara's iconic Kofuku-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a rich history, stunning pagoda, and priceless Buddhist art.

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Kofuku-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Nara, boasts a rich history dating back to 669 AD. Once the family temple of the powerful Fujiwara clan, it features iconic structures like the five-storied pagoda and National Treasure Museum, offering a glimpse into Japan's Buddhist heritage.

A brief summary to Kofuku-ji

  • Monday 9 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit the National Treasure Museum to see the famous Ashura statue and other significant Buddhist art.
  • Take a stroll around Sarusawa Pond near the temple for picturesque views of the five-storied pagoda.
  • Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Todai-ji Temple and Nara Park to experience more of Nara's cultural heritage.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Kintetsu Nara Station, Kofuku-ji Temple is a short 5-minute walk. Head east from the station, and you'll see the temple complex on your right. From JR Nara Station, walk east along Sanjo Dori for about 20 minutes, then turn left towards Sarusawa Pond and the temple.

  • Public Transport

    From JR Nara Station, take the Nara City Loop Line Bus number 2 or any bus bound for Kasuga Taisha. Get off at the Kencho-mae bus stop, which is a short walk from Kofuku-ji Temple. The bus ride takes about 5-7 minutes and costs ¥250.

  • Parking

    If driving, parking is available near Kofuku-ji Temple, though spaces may be limited. There is a parking lot next to the National Treasure Museum. The parking fee is approximately ¥1000. L-PARK Kofukuji Mae Dai 1 Parking and L-PARK Kofukuji Mae Dai 2 Parking are also nearby.

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Discover more about Kofuku-ji

Kofuku-ji Temple, located in Nara Park, is a historic Buddhist temple with origins tracing back to 669 AD. Founded by Kagami no Okimi, the wife of Fujiwara no Kamatari, the temple was initially established in Yamashina, Kyoto, to pray for her husband's recovery from illness. It was later moved to its current location in Nara in 710 AD, coinciding with the establishment of Heijo-kyo (present-day Nara) as the capital. Kofuku-ji served as the family temple of the influential Fujiwara clan, playing a significant role in Japanese politics and Buddhism. During the peak of the Fujiwara clan's power, Kofuku-ji comprised over 150 buildings, solidifying its status as a prominent religious center. Although fires and conflicts have reduced the temple's size, several important structures remain, including the iconic five-storied pagoda, which stands as the second tallest wooden pagoda in Japan at 50 meters. The pagoda was first built in 730 and reconstructed in 1426. Visitors can explore the temple grounds, which are open 24 hours. The Central Golden Hall, Eastern Golden Hall, and National Treasure Museum house a remarkable collection of Buddhist art, sculptures, and artifacts. The National Treasure Museum is a must-see, showcasing treasures such as the three-faced, six-armed Ashura Statue. The Central Golden Hall was recently rebuilt in 2018 after being destroyed by fire in 1717. The Eastern Golden Hall houses a large statue of the Yakushi Buddha. Note that Kofuku-ji’s five-storied pagoda is undergoing extensive renovation works from July 2023 until March 2031, during which the pagoda is covered up.

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