Kofukuji Temple

Originally founded near present-day Kyoto in 669, the temple was relocated to Nara in 710, following the establishment of Heijō-kyō, the vast capital that housed the imperial court during the 8th century.

As the family temple of the powerful Fujiwara clan, which dominated Japanese politics for several centuries, Kōfuku-ji became a major political and religious center.

Damaged by fires and wars over the centuries, the temple has been rebuilt several times throughout its history.

Main Hall (Chūkondō)

The current Chūkondō, inaugurated in 2018 after several years of restoration work, is a faithful reconstruction in the architectural style of the Nara period (710–794). Standing at the heart of the temple grounds, it is the site's largest and most imposing building.

Inside, visitors can admire a statue of Shaka Nyorai (the Historical Buddha), surrounded by several other important Buddhist figures.

Five-Story Pagoda (Gojū-no-tō)

Standing 50 meters tall, Kōfuku-ji's five-story pagoda is the second tallest pagoda in Japan, surpassed only by the pagoda of Tō-ji Temple in Kyoto.
Designated a National Treasure, it has been rebuilt several times throughout its history, with the current structure dating from 1426. Now one of Nara's most iconic landmarks, the pagoda dominates the city's skyline and is currently undergoing a long-term restoration and preservation program.

A smaller three-story pagoda can also be found in a quieter corner of the temple grounds, hidden behind a group of Jizō statues.

Nan'en-dō

Despite its name, Nan'en-dō ("Southern Octagonal Hall") is not a circular building but an octagonal hall dedicated to Fukūkenjaku Kannon, a form of the Bodhisattva of Compassion. Originally founded in 813 by one of the most influential members of the Fujiwara clan, the current building dates from 1741 and is designated an Important Cultural Property.
A similar structure, the Hokuen-dō ("Northern Octagonal Hall"), stands a short distance away in a quieter part of the temple grounds.

Adjacent to the Nan'en-dō is Kōzen-in, a secondary hall that is easily recognizable by its pergola covered with hanging plants.

Tōkondō and the National Treasure Museum

The Tōkondō ("Eastern Hall") is one of Kōfuku-ji's principal buildings. It houses several important Buddhist statues, including an image of Yakushi Nyorai, the Medicine Buddha.

Just behind the hall stands the Kōfuku-ji National Treasure Museum (Kōfuku-ji Kokuhōkan), which displays an outstanding collection of Buddhist art. Visitors can admire numerous sculptures, paintings, and ritual objects designated as National Treasures or Important Cultural Properties.