Kofukuji is a lovely temple with beautiful five storey pagoda, and other pagodas and sub buildings that are also lovely. There is a charge to enter the main hall, which we didn't go in on this visit. There was restoration work going on when we visited, which was a shame, but we will definitely be back after it's back to its full on gorgeousness. It's a smashing place to wander around.

The Kofuku-ji Temple costs 500 yen. This is the Central Golden Hall where Buddha sits. One hand welcomes and one hand pushes away. No photos permitted. The Black Pagoda is under restoration as of April, 2024.

This was the least busy temple area we visited while in Nara and is very close to the Higashimuki Shopping Street. We spent about 15 minutes here looking around on the way to the famous deer park area. It is free to walk in the area but you need to get a ticket to go into certain buildings. Closest metro station is Kintetsu-Nara Station and it is about a 10-15 minute walk to the area with lots of deer.

Kōfuku-ji Temple is a highlight of Nara’s rich history and Buddhist heritage. A key site from the Nara period (710–794 AD), it reflects the artistic achievements of Tempyō culture. Unfortunately, when I visited, the iconic five-story pagoda was under construction, but the rest of the temple and its exquisite Buddhist statues were still impressive. It’s a must-see for anyone exploring Nara and interested in Japan’s cultural past.