Kofuku-ji, Kinki Kansai Travel Guide

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.