Muroji Temple, also known as "Women's Koyasan," is an ancient temple where the serene atmosphere surrounded by mountains offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Take the bus bound for Muroji Temple from Kintetsu Murogukuchi-Ono Station. Get off at the final stop, "Muroji Temple," and it's a short walk from there.
During Golden Week, and especially around that time, the temple's rhododendrons are in full bloom. A direct bus runs between Muroji Temple (known for its peonies in bloom during the same period) and Hase-dera Temple for a limited time during this period.
By car, the closest access from Osaka is via the Nara-Mie Expressway's Hari Interchange, going through Murogukuchi-Ono. However, especially on weekends during rhododendron season, the route described below is often faster.
From Nagoya, the best route is via the Nara-Mie Expressway's Okura Interchange and then the Okuuda Koku-iku Nodou (Yamanami Road). This road is wide, with no traffic lights and only one stop sign near the interchange and another near Muroji Temple. Therefore, during peak season, this route is often the fastest even from the Osaka area. Show route
Op.Hours
8:30 AM to 4:30 PM
Cld.Days
No holidays
Fee
Entrance Fee: ¥600 for adults, ¥400 for children.
Hojutsuden (Treasure Hall): ¥400 per person
Muroji Temple, located in Muro, Uda City, Nara Prefecture, is an ancient temple said to have been founded during the Nara period (729-794). Known as "Women's Koyasan," it was once a place where many women practiced asceticism. The temple's defining characteristic is its tranquil setting nestled within mountains, offering a peaceful sanctuary far from the noise of the city.
Muroji Temple houses numerous precious cultural properties, including the National Treasure five-story pagoda and the Golden Hall, and the Important Cultural Property Shaka Nyorai statue. The five-story pagoda is the temple's iconic structure, its elegant form captivating visitors. The Golden Hall, the heart of Muroji Temple's faith, houses the principal image of Shaka Nyorai, whose compassionate expression mesmerizes many.
Muroji Temple also boasts beautiful seasonal scenery. In spring, rhododendrons bloom across the grounds, creating a breathtaking carpet of pink. In autumn, the mountains are ablaze with autumn leaves, offering a stunning gradient of red, yellow, and orange.
As "Women's Koyasan," Muroji Temple was once a place where numerous women dedicated themselves to religious practice. Even today, many women visit to seek purification and renew their commitment to life in the temple's tranquil atmosphere.
Muroji Temple is a healing sanctuary offering rejuvenation for both mind and body, surrounded by history and nature. Escape the city's clamor, contemplate history and nature in the quiet, and spend some relaxing time here.