Kofuku-ji

Temple

Prefecture

Nara

Type

Temple

N/A

1 review

¥700

Entry Fee

Train Access

About This Destination

World Heritage temple with Japan's second-tallest wooden pagoda (50m). The National Treasure Hall has the Ashura statue—8th century, three faces, six arms. Pagoda under restoration until 2030s.

Kofuku-ji is one of the powerful Seven Great Temples of Nara, established in 710 as the family temple of the Fujiwara clan when the capital moved to Heijo-kyo. Its five-story pagoda, standing 50 meters tall, is the second tallest wooden pagoda in Japan and has become an enduring symbol of Nara, beautifully reflected in nearby Sarusawa Pond. The National Treasure Hall houses an outstanding collection of Buddhist sculptures, with the three-faced, six-armed Ashura statue from the 8th century drawing visitors from across the country. The temple grounds are open and integrated into the city landscape, making it a natural starting point for exploring central Nara. Note that the five-story pagoda is currently undergoing major restoration work scheduled to continue until the early 2030s.

Location

Prefecture: Nara

Address: Nara, Japan

Nearest Station: Kintetsu Nara Station

View on Google Maps

Visitor Information

Credit Cards: Unknown

Food Options: No dining facilities on the temple grounds, but numerous restaurants and cafes are within a short walk along Sanjodori Street and around Sarusawa Pond, offering kakinoha-zushi and other Nara specialties.

Official Website

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Kofuku-ji from Kintetsu Nara Station?

Kofuku-ji is just a 5-minute walk east from Kintetsu Nara Station. Exit the station, walk along Higashimuki Shopping Street, then follow the path toward Sarusawa Pond—the five-story pagoda will be visible ahead.

Is the famous Ashura statue always on display?

Yes, the Ashura statue is permanently displayed in the National Treasure Hall (Kokuho-kan). The hall is open 9 AM to 5 PM. Entry to the hall is 700 yen; the temple grounds are free to enter.

Is the five-story pagoda accessible during renovation?

The pagoda is undergoing major restoration until the early 2030s. While scaffolding covers the structure, special viewing opportunities may be available during certain periods—check the official website for updates.

What other Nara highlights can I combine with Kofuku-ji?

Kofuku-ji sits at the western edge of Nara Park, so combining it with Todai-ji (Great Buddha, 15-minute walk) and Kasuga Taisha shrine (25 minutes via the deer-filled park) makes a perfect half-day. Sarusawa Pond is right at Kofuku-ji's south edge for the classic pagoda reflection shot. The Naramachi merchant district is 10 minutes south for lunch.