Kohfukuji Temple, founded in 710, prospered as the Fujiwara clan’s temple and featured an impressive complex in the early Heian period (794-1185). Unfortunately, fires plagued the temple, destroying many of its pagodas and treasures. Yet, each time, dedicated monks and others committed to the temple’s preservation meticulously rebuilt it.

Currently, a "Tenpyo restoration" project is underway, aiming to restore the temple to its original splendor from the Tenpyo period (729-749). The Central Golden Hall, restored in 2018, offers a glimpse of the temple's former grandeur, especially when illuminated in the evening, creating a truly sublime experience. The five-story pagoda, a national treasure, is undergoing its first major repairs in 120 years, with the hope that these efforts will preserve ancient knowledge and techniques for future generations.

Even today, Kohfukuji Temple's bell still rings regularly, keeping time for the local people. On the tour, you can even ring the bell yourself. Although the responsibility of letting the sound echo through the town was a bit nerve-wracking, Vanessa shared with satisfaction, "It was a refreshing and wonderful experience."

Designated as an Important Cultural Property, the Nara Buddhist Sculpture Hall in the Nara National Museum is a prime example of authentic Western-style architecture from the mid-Meiji Period (1868–1912). The hall’s exhibitions primarily focus on Japanese Buddhist art and even non-Japanese visitors can become familiar with these Buddhist statues using the helpful audio guide. The museum showcases nearly 100 Buddhist statues, with the impressive five-meter standing sculpture of Kongo Rikishi (Kinpusen-ji Temple, Nara) captivating visitors. We invite you to step inside the rich and fascinating world of Buddhist art while learning about the faith that inspired it!

Kasugataisha Shrine, established in 768 by the Fujiwara clan on the sacred slopes of Mt. Mikasa, enshrines four deities. The entrance to the shrine’s precincts is guarded by ancient giant cedars, some between 800 and 1,000 years old. At the end of the central walkway sits the vibrant vermilion main shrine building, encircled by an outer corridor. Clara said the numerous lanterns "gave off a mystical, emotional aura." Be sure to take some time to visit this breathtaking shrine.

A plethora of hands-on workshops are available to connect you with Japanese culture.

Make tea whisks with Tango Tanimura
At Tango Tanimura, a shop where the craft of making tea whisks (chasen) has been passed down for about 550 years, you can learn about the history of chasen directly from Tango Tanimura, the 20th-generation master. Visitors can even try threading their very own tea whisk, a popular activity among foreigners. Jessica said, "It was a completely new experience for me." This is a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the uniquely Japanese culture of wabi-sabi.

Roll ink at Kinkoen
Kinkoen has preserved the traditional craft of making Nara sumi ink for over a century. Here, you can try rolling your own ink in a process called "nigiri-zumi." The final ink block is a one-of-a-kind original, and you can take it home as a souvenir in a beautiful Paulownia wood box. One of the highlights is learning about the origins of Japanese ink from a master calligrapher in a fun and easy-to-understand way. Elodie was elated that "it even included a calligraphy lesson. It was so fun."

Make omamori (amulets) at Kohfukuji Temple
Create your own protective amulet at Kohfukuji Temple in a workshop led by Ryukai Kirimura, a Jurin-in monk with 25 years of experience, and Zane, a New York native with a deep understanding of Japanese culture.

The experience begins with participants applying zuko (rubbing incense) to their palms and wrists. Then, a prayer for mental purification is made by pressing the hands together, with the right hand representing the Buddha and the left hand representing oneself. Everyone chants the Heart Sutra, which signifies the wisdom and guidance of the Buddha, a solemn sound that transfixes all who hear it.

With minds now at peace, it's time to craft the amulets. Omamori serve as a portable protective force, connecting the bearer with the power of the mandala (universe) through the mantra’s words. Participants write out the Mantra of Light, pouring themselves into every letter. This mantra is imbued with the power of three elements: the Buddhist rosary, the lotus, and light.

Once you've finished writing, the monk adds his own personal seal to the paper, a special signature of sorts. The mantra is then folded and placed inside the amulet pouch along with a small wooden tag. Finally, everyone receives a gomagi (prayer stick), on which they write their name and a wish, used for prayers at Kohfukuji Temple.

Our participants, Kate, Kimie, and Thein, shared their thoughts on the experience: "Making an amulet with your own name in it is a special, one-of-a-kind experience." "There was a template, which made writing the mantra fun and easy." "I was pleasantly surprised when I received the monk's personal stamp on my paper." All three had a very meaningful experience.

Various other tours are also available to enjoy special aspects of Nara you normally couldn't experience. Niku said, "It was awesome going off the beaten path and enjoying some unique sightseeing." Why not make some unforgettable memories yourself?

Japan Arts Council
Agency for Cultural Affairs, Government of Japan