At the foot of an ancient kofun lies a house waiting to be lived in again.

Just beneath Nishiyamazuka Kofun in Tenri, Nara — an ancient keyhole-shaped burial mound believed to be the resting place of Princess Tashiraka, grandmother of Empress Suiko — there once stood a humble farmhouse. Here, people tended orchards, raised cattle, and lived close to the land.

As time passed, the house was abandoned.

But now, it has been brought back to life. With the help of over 100 volunteers from across Japan, the house was lovingly restored and reimagined as cofunia, a retreat where people can stay at the foot of an ancient tomb. At its heart is the Fire Building, a communal space where the memories of clay floors and old beams still remain.

cofunia is more than a place to stay — it's a place to gather, share, and spark something new.
Just like lighting a quiet flame, one idea can kindle another, quietly expanding outward.

We now open this space to others. The Fire Building is available to rent as a gathering place — intimate, grounded, and full of possibility.

Perfect For:

• Seasonal tea gatherings and meals
• Photo exhibitions and art shows
• Workshops centered around food, craft, or traditional knowledge
• Small markets or meetups connecting travelers and local people

Rental Details

Access

• 25-minute walk or 7-minute taxi from JR Nagara Station
• 10-minute walk from “Joganji” bus stop (via Nara Kotsu Bus from Tenri Station)
• Parking available: 666-1 Kayo-cho, Tenri City, Nara Prefecture