To get started, ensure you have the latest JDK installed, and download Maven from: http://maven.apache.org/ Then run "mvn clean package" to compile the software. You can also run "mvn site:site" to generate a website with useful information like JavaDocs. The outputs are under the target/ directory. Alternatively, just import the project using your IDE. IntelliJ has Maven integration once you tell it where to find your unzipped Maven install directory. Now try running one of the example apps: cd examples mvn exec:java -Dexec.mainClass=com.google.bitcoin.examples.ForwardingService <insert a bitcoin address here> It will download the block chain and eventually print a Bitcoin address. If you send coins to it, it will forward them on to the address you specified. Now you are ready to follow the tutorial: https://code.google.com/p/bitcoinj/wiki/GettingStarted