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Shrines

Sumisaka Shrine|Japan’s Oldest Health Deity

Sumisaka Shrine is Japan’s oldest shrine dedicated to health and healing. It’s known for a legend of red and black spears and sacred water from Ryuo Shrine. The site is also linked to Emperor Jimmu in ancient chronicles.
Shrines

Ryuchin Shrine | Mystical Gorge with Emerald Green River

Hidden deep in Uda, Ryuchin Shrine is a sacred spot known for its emerald-green waterfall basin and ancient rain rituals. Surrounded by lush nature and clear mountain waters upstream from the Murou Dam, it offers a peaceful, spiritual retreat.
Nature

Ryuogafuchi | Explore the Mysterious Landscape

Ryuogafuchi is a natural depression filled with clear water, creating a mystical landscape. It has been the source of various legends for a long time. The pond is oval-shaped, surrounded by mountains on three sides
Shrines

Ryuketsu Shrine|Cave of the Rain God & Spiritual Site

Ryuketsu Shrine is a sacred site for praying for rain. At the nearby cave known as “Ryuketsu,” traditional rain rituals are still performed. Just under 1 km from Murou-ji Temple, it’s an easy and meaningful detour.
Culture & History

Uda Matsuyama | Traditional Townscape & Commerce

Uda Matsuyama is a nationally designated preservation district. Once prosperous for herbal medicine and commerce, many historic merchant houses remain. Enjoy the streets and rich natural scenery while exploring its history.
Culture & History

Uda City Highlights|History, Nature & Sacred Shrines

Discover Uda Matsuyama’s charming streets, Murou-ji Temple, and dragon-related shrines. See Sumisaka and Yatagarasu Shrines tied to Emperor Jimmu’s expedition, red spider lilies at Butsuryu-ji, and art on Mount Murou in eastern Nara.
Temples

Ofusa Kannon|Temple of Roses, Hydrangeas & Summer Festivals

Ofusa Kannon Temple is loved for its beautiful roses and hydrangeas, as well as its summer Wind Chime and Lantern Festivals. According to legend, the temple began when a local girl named Ofusa saw Kannon riding a white turtle.
Shrines

Kashihara Jingu|Sacred Site of Japan’s First Emperor

Kashihara Jingu was founded in 1890 where Japan’s first emperor, Jimmu, is said to have established the nation. Located near the base of Mount Unebi, it’s popular for New Year visits and celebrations. A 10-minute walk from Kintetsu Station.
Culture & History

Takatori Castle|Hike Japan’s Strongest Mountain Castle

Featured by NHK as “Japan’s strongest mountain castle,” Takatori Castle can be reached by a hike from Kintetsu Tsubosakayama Station. Climb 460 meters in under two hours and enjoy sweeping views from the ruins.
Culture & History

Ginkgo Avenue & Sakura|Golden Leaves, Cherry Blossoms

Tenri City offers seasonal charm with a golden ginkgo-lined road in autumn and glowing weeping cherry blossoms in spring. Visit the historic ruins of Uchiyama Eikyu-ji Temple and unwind at the stylish Cofufun plaza near the station.