Exclusive Early Tour of National Treasure Tokondo – Discover Buddhism with a Monk

Experience Kohfuku-ji's National Treasure Tokondo Hall with exclusive early morning access, before it opens to the public. This special small-group tour offers a unique opportunity to learn about Buddhist statues and teachings from a resident monk, and practice breathing techniques. Immerse yourself in the rich history of Kofuku-ji, spanning over 1300 years, for deep insight and tranquility.
Why not go beyond mere sightseeing and immerse yourself in deeper learning and inner peace in a place where history and culture come alive? It's a unique opportunity to savor a special moment in Nara's morning that can only be experienced here.

A symbol of Nara, Kohfuku-ji boasts over 1300 years of history and has played a significant role in Japanese Buddhist history. It houses numerous National Treasure Buddhist statues, preserving the history of Japanese Buddhist art to this day.

The current Tokondo Hall, rebuilt in 1415, is a National Treasure building that houses a collection of highly valuable Buddhist statues. Experience this sacred space in serene silence, a truly rare opportunity compared to the usual bustling hours.

Learn "breathing techniques" practiced daily by Kohfuku-ji monks. Facing the Buddhist statues in the quiet hall, you'll focus on your breath. This practice helps calm your mind and offers an opportunity for deep self-reflection. The tranquility of this historic space will create a special, lasting memory.

In this experience, a Kohfuku-ji monk will teach participants the 'breathing techniques' he practices daily in his own training. While facing the Buddhist statues in the quiet hall, you will focus on your breath. This time will help calm your mind and provide an opportunity for deep self-reflection. The tranquility of this historic space will create a special, lasting memory in your heart.

8:20 AM – Meet in front of the Tokondo Hall
Gather in front of the Tokondo, a National Treasure located at the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage site, Kohfuku-ji Temple.

8:30 AM – Special Guided Tour of the Tokondo Hall before it opens to the public
A monk will personally guide you through the hall, offering clear explanations of the Buddhist statues, teachings, and rituals. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to experience the breathing techniques practiced daily by the monks to calm and center the mind.

9:00 AM – End of the tour
You can continue to enjoy the Chukondo (Central Golden Hall) and the National Treasure Hall, which open to the public at 9:00 AM.
The early morning hours tend to be quieter, making it an ideal time to leisurely appreciate the cultural treasures.
Take this opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere, and quietly appreciate the National Treasures at your own pace.

In addition to experiencing the history directly, you will also be able to enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience with the free “Visual Guide”.
Through rich visual representations using VR (virtual reality), this content allows you to explore Kohfuku-ji's philosophy, its efforts toward reconstruction, and the spiritual perspectives of the Japanese people in a deeply engaging way. The experience is available by visiting the site.
For more details, visit：https://kohfukuji-project.jp/visualguide/en/index.html