ABOUT
About this spot
Kofuku-ji, a renowned temple of Nara, is a temple connected with the Fujiwara clan, originating in Yamashina-dera, built by the wife of Fujiwara no Kamatari to pray for her husband's recovery from illness. It once had more than 100 buildings lined across its vast grounds and wielded great power. The main highlight today is, of course, the "National Treasure Museum." You can see up close breathtakingly beautiful Buddhist art such as the famous "Ashura statue," familiar from school textbooks, and the standing statue of the Thousand-Armed Kannon Bodhisattva. Its overwhelming sculptural beauty quietly soothes not only history fans but also those of us living today. Just walking through the grounds, with the "five-story pagoda," a symbol of Nara, and the vivid vermilion "Chukondo," rebuilt in 2018, you can feel the weight of 1,300 years of history. Within walking distance of Kintetsu Nara Station and with good access, it also suits a Nara Park walking route. Whether you reflect on history with family and friends, or spend a grown-up time quietly facing the Buddhist statues alone, it is recommended.
Last updated March 26, 2026