Kofukuji Temple was originally built in 669, and moved to its current location in 710, when Nara became the capital of Japan. The noble family of Fujiwara, who had strong political power, and was a maternal relative of the Emperor, built the temple.

The Five-Storied Pagoda is the symbol of Kofukuji Temple. The pagoda was originally built in 730. The current pagoda was rebuilt in 1426. Approximately 600 years have already passed since then.

The building on the north of the Five-Storied Pagoda is the East Kondo (Main Hall). This hall originally built in 726, was rebuilt in 1415. The Five-Storied Pagoda and the East Kondo are national Treasures of Japan.

As Kofukuji Temple is a typical representative temple in Japan, and a traditional temple, the temple has 45 national treasures of Japan including 4 buildings. Others are mainly Buddha statues and many of them are displayed in the National Treasure Museum, located north of East Kondo.

Those national treasure statues are very impressive.
"Asura" Statue" is the highest recommended one. Please do not miss seeing the statues.

The Five-Storied Pagoda, East Kondo and the National Treasure Museum are located on the east side of Kofukuji Temple.

There used to be Nandaimon Gate (the Main gate), Chumon (the second gate), Naka-Kondo (the Center Main Hall) and the lecture hall in the middle of Kofukuji Temple. Unfortunately, these have been lost and/or destroyed, but now some of these buildings are being rebuilt.

On the west side, also a couple of traditional buildings are located. These are Hokuen-do Hall and Nanen-do Hall. These buildings are also related to the Fujiwara-family, which are the founders of this temple. Hokuen-do Hall was originally built in 721 and rebuilt in 1208. Nanen-do was originally built in 813 and rebuilt in 1789.

The atmosphere of this area, especially at Nanen-do Hall was informal. Many people visited the hall to pray for divine favor.

Just to the south of Nanen-do Hall, a three storied pagoda is located. The pagoda was rebuilt at the end of the 12th century. This is the oldest building in Kofukuji Temple. Hokuen-do Hall and Three-Storied Pagoda are also national treasures.

The view of the Five-Storied Pagoda of the Kofukuji from the Sarusawa-no-ike Pond.
This view is one of the many representative views of Japan.

How to get there
Kofukuji Temple is just a 7 minute walk from Kintetsu-Nara Station.
Approximately a 20 minute walk from JR Nara Station.

Official English Website: http://www.kohfukuji.com/english.html

Other Historical Sites near by:
Gangoji Temple
Todaiji Temple