Rising above Nara Park, the five-story pagoda of Kofuku-ji is one of the city’s defining landmarks and a symbol of the ancient capital. Once the powerful family temple of the Fujiwara clan, Kofuku-ji is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that pairs striking architecture with one of Japan’s finest collections of Buddhist sculpture. It is an easy and rewarding first stop on arriving in Nara.

The Five-Story Pagoda

At around 50 meters, the five-story pagoda is the second tallest in Japan. First built in the 8th century and rebuilt several times after fires, the current structure dates from the 1400s. Its graceful tiered silhouette is especially beautiful at sunset and is one of the most photographed sights in Nara, often framed with deer grazing nearby.

The National Treasure Museum

Kofuku-ji’s treasure hall holds an extraordinary collection of Buddhist statues, including the famous three-faced, six-armed Ashura statue, a masterpiece of 8th-century sculpture. The museum gathers centuries of religious art under one roof and is a highlight for anyone interested in Japanese history and craftsmanship. A separate admission applies.

The Central Hall and Grounds

The reconstructed Central Golden Hall, completed recently in its original style, glows in vivid color and houses important Buddhist images. The temple grounds are open and free to wander, dotted with halls, the octagonal Nan’endo, and views across to the pagoda. Because it sits right beside the park, deer often roam among the buildings.

Practical Tips

Kofuku-ji is just a few minutes’ walk from Kintetsu Nara Station, making it the most convenient temple to visit first. The grounds are free, with paid entry to the pagoda interior, halls, and museum. Allow an hour or more, and pair it easily with Nara Park, Todai-ji, and Kasuga Taisha in a single day.

With its soaring pagoda and world-class Buddhist art, Kofuku-ji captures the grandeur of Nara’s golden age. Conveniently placed at the park’s edge, it is the perfect place to begin discovering the ancient capital.

More Nara Travel Guides

• Todai-ji Temple, Nara: Home of the Great Buddha
• Nara Park: Meeting the Famous Bowing Deer
• Kasuga Taisha, Nara: The Shrine of a Thousand Lanterns

See our full Nara Travel Guide for an overview.

See also: The Complete Nara Guide — temples, deer, and where to stay.