Muroji is a large temple located in the mountains east of Sakurai City. Stone steps connect the buildings of the mountainside temple, leading through a dense forest. Many of the temple buildings date back hundreds of years, and the old wooden buildings create a harmonious atmosphere with the surrounding nature. Muroji makes an interesting comparison to the nearby Hasedera Temple, whose grounds have been more developed.
The mountainous area, where the temple is now located, has been considered a holy place since ancient times. When the Emperor Kammu fell sick during the late 8th century, high priests were sent to this area to perform rituals for his recovery. Once his health improved, Muroji Temple was ordered to be built at that same location. Muroji is also referred to as "Women’s Koyasan" because Muroji permitted people of both genders to enter, while admittance to Koyasan was permitted only to men.
