Why is Murou-ji Temple historically significant?

Historically, Murou-ji Temple is significant because it was one of the few sacred places that permitted women to enter during a time when most holy mountains in Japan were forbidden to them. This inclusivity makes it unique in the history of Japanese Buddhism.

What is the main deity worshiped at Murou-ji Temple?

The main deity worshiped at Murou-ji Temple is Kannon (Avalokiteshvara), the Bodhisattva of Compassion. The temple features a statue of Kannon that is a designated National Treasure of Japan.

What are the architectural highlights of Murou-ji Temple?

Murou-ji Temple is famous for its five-storied pagoda, which is one of the smallest pagodas in Japan. It is also renowned for its elegant proportions and scenic placement amidst the surrounding forested hills.

How can visitors access Murou-ji Temple?

Murou-ji Temple can be accessed by train from Nara to Muroguchiono Station and then by bus to the temple. The journey provides a scenic view of the rural landscape of Nara Prefecture.

What is the best time to visit Murou-ji Temple?

The best time to visit Murou-ji Temple is during the spring for cherry blossoms or the autumn for the colorful foliage. Both seasons highlight the natural beauty surrounding the temple.

Stone steps lead up through lush greenery to a red five-story pagoda surrounded by tall trees, with sunlight filtering through the leaves.

Traditional Japanese temple roof surrounded by vibrant autumn foliage, including bright red, yellow, and green trees, creating a colorful seasonal landscape.

A traditional Japanese wooden temple with a thatched roof, surrounded by trees with bare branches and some cherry blossoms, set against a backdrop of lush greenery and a clear blue sky. Stone steps lead up to the entrance.

A traditional Japanese wooden temple with a sloped roof, raised on a stone foundation, stands beside stone steps, surrounded by trees and greenery.

A bright red wooden bridge arches over a stream, leading to a small traditional building surrounded by lush green trees and forested hills under a clear blue sky.

Nara

Murou-ji Temple

4.5 (3391)Buddhist TempleTourist AttractionPlace Of WorshipAssociation Or OrganizationPoint Of InterestEstablishment

Last updated May 2, 2026

Murou-ji Temple, nestled in the verdant forests of the Uda Mountains in Nara Prefecture, offers a breathtaking escape into a world of spiritual tranquility and natural beauty. Often referred to as the "Women's Koyasan," this temple stands out because, unlike the male-only Mount Koya, it has welcomed women since its founding in the 9th century.

Murou-ji Temple is celebrated for its five-story pagoda, which is among the smallest and most elegantly proportioned in Japan. Surrounded by ancient cedar trees, the pagoda presents a picturesque sight, particularly in the spring when cherry blossoms bloom and in autumn when the leaves turn vibrant colors.

Murou-ji was established as a center for Shingon Buddhist training and is dedicated to Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy. The serene and welcoming atmosphere of the temple, combined with its rich history and cultural significance, makes it a powerful draw for those seeking insight into Japanese religious practices or a peaceful retreat from the bustle of daily life.

Visiting Murou-ji Temple is like stepping into a living tapestry of natural beauty and spiritual depth, offering a unique glimpse into the harmonious balance of nature and devotion that characterizes much of Japanese culture.

Hours:

8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Closed:

Year-end and New Year holidays.

Available:

All year

Minimum Age:

All ages are welcome

Fees:

Adults: 600 yen

Child: 400 yen

Hours

Sunday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Monday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Thursday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Phone

+81 745-93-2003

Website

www.murouji.or.jp

Overview

Address

78 Murou, Uda, Nara 633-0421, Japan

Hours

Sunday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Monday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Thursday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Traveler reviews

This temple is an absolute gem. There are ample spaces for parking (with a fee you pay at a shop nearby, someone will wave at you) and not that many visitors. You buy ticket at the entrance. There are a couple of stairs before you reach the Kondo, and a couple more to reach the main hall and the smallest five-story pagoda in Japan.

John C

Apr 29, 2026

This temple is considered sacred for women, and is called women’s Koya-san. It’s a beautiful temple complex with LOTS of steps throughout. The paid exhibition is very well made and I don’t regret paying extra for it.

Matan Katz

Jun 27, 2025

Absolutely wonderful temple. It was tranquil and beautiful. The temple was one of the first ones that allowed women to worship in. The temple was in the forest and it made it extra special. Highly recommend for a more traditional non touristic Japanese temple destination

Y M

Feb 22, 2025

The temple complex contains national treasures such as Buddhist statues, a five-story pagoda, and the main hall (Kondo). The best time to visit is said to be during the autumn foliage season. The Kondo is scheduled to undergo major repairs soon, so if you want to see the building in its original state, you should check beforehand.

David Soma

May 20, 2026

This was just an "extra" to my itinerary for the day, which is mainly for seeing Hasedera Temple. But what a bonus it was! I enjoyed the bus trip from Muroguchiono station (Kintetsu) to the start of the small hike. The temple grounds provided nice views but some of them required some uphill climbing of stairs similar to the one for Chureito Pagoda (Mt. Fuji Arakurayama Sengen Park)