What other travelers are saying about Murou-ji Temple
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.
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
It's a great temple with national treasures. It's especially recommendable for the people who searches for a sacred temple with real serenity and peace in beautiful nature.
Night tour - Murouji~
Led by the monk （sensei) in the temple to participate in and appreciate the national cultural heritage!
Although the place in the temple is not large, there are Buddha statues made 1,200 years ago!
Full of energy!
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)
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
