Kofuku-ji stands at the western edge of Nara Park, its 50-metre five-story pagoda one of the city’s most photographed silhouettes, especially mirrored in nearby Sarusawa Pond. A UNESCO World Heritage temple, its treasure hall holds Japan’s most beloved Buddhist statue, the three-faced Ashura.
🗓️ At a Glance
| Location | Noborioji-cho, Nara |
| Hours | 9:00–17:00 (halls) |
| Admission | Grounds free; Central Golden Hall ¥500, Treasure Museum ¥700 |
| Time needed | 1 hour |
| Best time | Sunset for the pagoda |
What to See
- The five-story pagoda (1426), Japan’s second-tallest wooden pagoda.
- The National Treasure Museum and its celebrated 8th-century Ashura statue.
- The rebuilt Central Golden Hall (2018) and the octagonal Nan’endo hall.
- Sarusawa Pond below, framing the pagoda’s reflection.
Combine Your Visit
- Steps from the deer of Nara Park — see our Nara Park deer guide .
- Wander the old merchant lanes of Naramachi .
- More in our Nara top sightseeing guide .
Getting There
- From Kintetsu Nara Station: 5 min walk.
- From JR Nara Station: 15 min walk east.
Tips
It’s free to walk the grounds and photograph the pagoda; pay only for the halls and the Ashura museum.
