Pay your respects at the shrine dedicated to the dragon deity legend, surrounded by towering cedars, to conclude your journey
About this spot
An ancient shrine said to have a history older than Muroji itself, dedicated to the dragon deity who governs water, with a record of rain-prayer rituals performed by the imperial court. The approach and grounds are surrounded by towering cedar trees that seem to pierce the sky. There is also a pair of cedars called the "husband and wife cedars" with roots intertwining, and combined with the moss-covered shrine buildings, a mystical atmosphere pervades. The inner sanctum, Kichijō Ryugetsutsu, is a rocky cave where the dragon deity is said to dwell—if time and energy permit, it's worth the extra visit. Offering prayers with your partner in the stillness far removed from the bustle of tourist destinations, bathed in the dappled sunlight filtering through the cedars, brings the day's journey through flowers and prayers in Oku-Yamato to a quiet close. A shrine worthy of concluding your journey, one that settles the heart.
Tips
About 15 minutes' walk from Muroji, or just minutes by car, with parking space near the torii gate. The shrine office may not always be staffed, so check in advance if you want a seal stamp. To reach the inner sanctum, Kichijō Ryugetsutsu, proceed by car along a forest road, then a short walk, but the footing is slippery, so wear comfortable walking shoes. The mountain valley gets dark early, so visiting in daylight is recommended.
Best time to visit
About 30 minutes. Late afternoon, when dappled sunlight filters through the cedars, is most mystical.
Access & map
〒633-0421 Nara Prefecture, Uda City, Muro 1297
Model course featuring this spot
Uda: Hasedera and Muroji Temples - A Flower Temple Pilgrimage
Nara
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