Kōfuku-ji Temple

Overview

Kōfuku-ji is a Buddhist temple in Nara, Nara Prefecture, and serves as the national headquarters of the East Asian Yogācāra (Hossō) school. It was once counted among the powerful Nanto Shichi Daiji, the Seven Great Temples of Nara, and is associated with the Fujiwara clan. The temple is inscribed as part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara, a World Heritage Site.

Highlights

• ●The precinct is defined by its five-storied and three-storied pagodas
• ●The Nan'en-dō is the 9th site of the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage
• ●Numerous National Treasures and cultural properties are preserved here
• ●Inscribed as part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site

History

The temple is said to have been founded in 710 during the Nara period as the clan temple of the Fujiwara. From its founding in the Nara period through the Muromachi period it is said to have wielded great influence. Its grounds are designated a Historic Site of Japan.

Map

34.6832, 135.8313 · Wikidata

Suggested itinerary

1. 1View the principal image of Shaka Nyorai in the Central Golden Hall
2. 2Take in the five-storied and three-storied pagodas
3. 3Stop at the Nan'en-dō, 9th site of the Saigoku pilgrimage
4. 4Stroll the surrounding streets and nearby facilities

Did you know?

💡 Kōfuku-ji is counted among the Seven Great Temples of Nara.

Nearby spots