We take a local bus (500 yen, approx. 14 minutes) or a taxi (~3,000 yen) or a private car depending on timing and availability, as buses run infrequently in this rural area.

During the ride, your guide will introduce the historical background of Murouji and mountain Buddhism.

Before entering the temple, enjoy a short walk through the charming temple town.

You can try local snacks such as yomogi (mugwort) cakes, a regional specialty loved by locals.

Murouji is a sacred mountain temple known as “Women’s Koya,” where women were historically allowed to worship, unlike Mount Koya.

Nestled deep in the forest, the temple reflects the spiritual world of Shugendo (mountain asceticism).

Highlights include:

・The beautiful five-story pagoda, one of the smallest and oldest in Japan

・Moss-covered stone steps surrounded by cedar trees

・Seasonal flowers such as rhododendrons in spring

Your guide will explain the unique role of Murouji in Japanese religious history and its connection to esoteric Buddhism.

Optional Experiences (depending on your preference and pace):

・Oku-no-in (Inner Sanctuary) – approx. 1.5 hours round trip

　A spiritual hike up more than 700 steep stone steps leading to the sacred inner sanctuary.

　This path has been used by practitioners for centuries and offers a deeper understanding of mountain worship.

　Note: Physically demanding with narrow and sometimes slippery paths.

・Murou Ryuketsu Shrine – approx. 45 minutes

　A hidden sacred site dedicated to the Dragon God, representing ancient nature worship in Japan.

　This site provides insight into pre-Buddhist beliefs and the spiritual connection between water, mountains, and deities.

Enjoy a relaxing lunch at a local restaurant.

You can try traditional dishes such as sansai (mountain vegetables), reflecting the region’s natural bounty.

We return to Murouguchi-Ono Station by bus (500 yen), then take the Kintetsu train to Hasedera Station (~400 yen).

Alternatively, a taxi (7,000–9,000 yen) or private car can be arranged for convenience and time efficiency.

Walk through the lively approach to Hasedera Temple.

Enjoy local specialties such as kusa-mochi (mugwort rice cakes) and Narazuke pickles.

Hasedera is widely known as the “Temple of Flowers” and a major center of Kannon (Goddess of Mercy) worship.

Highlights include:

・The iconic covered wooden corridor (Noboriro) with over 300 steps

・A breathtaking main hall built on a wooden stage overlooking the valley

・Seasonal flowers such as peonies in spring and hydrangeas in early summer

Your guide will explain the significance of Kannon worship and how Hasedera became a major pilgrimage destination.

The tour concludes at Hasedera Station.

Your guide can assist with directions for your next destination.