Kofukuji Temple (興福寺) was once the family temple of the Fujiwara clan, the most powerful aristocratic family during much of the Nara period.

The temple complex includes several historically significant buildings, including both a five-story and a three-story pagoda. At 50 meters tall, the five-story pagoda is the second tallest wooden pagoda in Japan, just seven meters shorter than the one at To-ji Temple.

⚠️ The five-story pagoda is currently undergoing major renovations from July 2023 to March 2031 and is covered during this period.

While entry to the temple grounds is free, there are three paid areas: the Central Golden Hall, the Eastern Golden Hall, and the National Treasure Museum (note that the Central Golden Hall is currently closed to visitors).

The Central Golden Hall, the temple’s main hall, was destroyed by fire about 300 years ago and only recently rebuilt. After many years of reconstruction, it reopened to the public in October 2018.

Located near the Eastern Golden Hall, the National Treasure Museum displays part of the temple’s extensive art collection and is highly recommended for those interested in Japanese art.