6 Recommended Tourist Spots in Sakurai, Miwa, and Yamanobe no Michi, Nara Prefecture

For those planning to visit the Sakurai, Miwa, and Yamanobe no Michi areas in Nara Prefecture, we’ve gathered a list of popular sightseeing spots as well as some highly rated cafés and restaurants that you can casually drop by during your trip. This area is rich in historical and scenic attractions, making it an ideal place for a relaxing and immersive travel experience. Take your time exploring and enjoy everything this beautiful region has to offer. We hope this guide helps you plan your visit!

1. Murou-ji Temple – A Stunning Autumn Foliage Spot in Sakurai, Miwa, and Yamanobe no Michi

If you are visiting Sakurai, one place you should not miss is Murou-ji Temple, located in the neighboring city of Uda. Murou-ji is also known as Nyonin Koya (Women’s Koya). Unlike Mount Koya, which historically prohibited women from entering, Murou Mountain allowed female worshippers, giving the temple this special name.

The temple complex includes several structures designated as national treasures, such as the Golden Hall, Five-story Pagoda, and Kanjodo Hall. Important cultural properties include the Miroku Hall, Tenjin Shrine, and the Inner Sanctuary. Within the temple grounds, you will find Yoroi-zaka, a staircase lined with small shrines from the Muromachi period, Taiko Bridge, which crosses a clear stream past the tea shops and inns at the entrance, and vibrant rhododendron flowers that bloom in deep red every April, offering different scenic beauty throughout the seasons.

Murou-ji houses many Buddhist statues designated as national treasures and important cultural properties, including the Standing Shaka Nyorai, Eleven-faced Kannon, Traditionally Attributed Taishakuten Mandala, and Standing Monju Bosatsu. Particularly noteworthy is the Nyoirin Kannon Bosatsu enshrined in the main hall, a rare wooden statue carved from a single piece of cypress, considered one of Japan’s Three Great Nyoirin Kannon. If you are planning a trip, be sure to visit this remarkable temple.

2. Buono – A Highly Recommended Italian Restaurant in Sakurai

If you are looking for a place to eat in Sakurai City, Buono is a great choice. It is located about a 10-minute walk from Sakurai Station, making it easy to visit even if you come by train.

Buono has a bakery on the first floor and a restaurant on the second floor. The restaurant is well-known for its pizza, making it a perfect spot for lunch. The bakery on the first floor is also popular among locals in Sakurai. On the second floor, you can enjoy delicious pizza, pasta, and French toast. It is one of the most well-known and highly rated Italian restaurants in the area.

During lunchtime, the second floor often fills up quickly, as customers can enjoy handmade bread along with their meal. The one-plate lunch is especially popular for its generous portions and reasonable price. Additionally, the restaurant offers unlimited bread, making it a great option for bread lovers. Many visitors become fans of the restaurant after experiencing its delicious food and welcoming atmosphere, often returning two or three times.

3. Hase-dera Temple – A Must-Visit for Flower Lovers in Sakurai

Hasedera Temple is well known for its seasonal flowers that can be enjoyed throughout the year. Cherry blossoms bloom in spring, hydrangeas in summer, autumn leaves in fall, and peonies in both winter and spring.

Among these, autumn is particularly famous for its stunning foliage, making it the busiest time of the year for visitors. The best time to see the autumn leaves is from November to December, with late November offering a special nighttime illumination. Many tourists come for evening visits to experience the beautifully lit scenery.

Hasedera provides free guided tours for travelers during limited periods. While the tour is only available inside the worship hall, making a reservation in advance ensures a smooth visit. The main hall also houses an important intangible cultural heritage of Nara Prefecture, allowing visitors to enjoy more than just the seasonal flowers.

To reach Hasedera from Sakurai Station, buses are available, but they tend to get crowded. If traveling by car, securing a parking spot in advance is recommended. During the peak autumn season, additional temporary buses are operated, making them a convenient option for visitors.

4. Mount Miwa – A Sacred Power Spot in Sakurai

Mount Miwa is one of the most famous spiritual sites in Sakurai City, known for being the sacred mountain of Ōmiwa Shrine.

Believed to be the dwelling place of Ōmononushi no Kami, the mountain has been considered a divine site since ancient times. In the past, only priests and monks were allowed to enter, but today, general visitors can climb the mountain under specific conditions, such as paying an entrance fee and following the sacred rules.

5. Miwa Sōmen Yamamoto – A Must-Try Local Gourmet Experience

When traveling, enjoying delicious local food is a must. Sakurai City is famous for Miwa Somen, a traditional hand-stretched noodle. If you visit the area, be sure to try this authentic specialty.

Miwa Somen Yamamoto Miwa Chaya is a long-established restaurant founded in 1717. Their signature dish, Hakuryu, is an extremely thin somen noodle made using a traditional hand-stretching method. Despite its thinness, it has a firm texture and is known for its smooth, refreshing taste.

In summer, the noodles are best enjoyed cold with a dipping broth, while in winter, warm nyumen (hot somen soup) is recommended. At Miwa Chaya, you can try both styles and also purchase somen as a souvenir. As a well-known restaurant, it attracts many visitors on weekends and holidays, but weekdays tend to be less crowded. For those who prefer a relaxed dining experience, visiting on a weekday is a great option.

6. Abe Monju-in Temple – A National Treasure in Sakurai

Abe Monju-in is one of Japan’s three great Monju temples and a highly recommended spot often featured in magazines. It was established by Abe no Kurahashimaro during the time of the Taika Reform. The temple houses many important cultural properties and national treasures, attracting numerous visitors.

One of the most remarkable sights at Abe Monju-in is the Tokai Monju statue, which depicts Monju riding a lion accompanied by four attendant figures. All five statues are designated as national treasures, and the sacred atmosphere surrounding them is truly captivating. If you visit Sakurai, experiencing this spiritual presence is highly recommended. The temple is also famous for its cherry blossoms in spring and autumn foliage, making it a popular spot for hanami and viewing the vibrant autumn colors.

◎ Summary

Sakurai City, including Miwa and Yamanobe no Michi, offers a blend of history, gourmet food, and breathtaking scenery. Many attractions are within walking distance of Sakurai Station, making it a convenient destination for travelers using trains or cars.

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6 Recommended Tourist Spots in Sakurai, Miwa, and Yamanobe no Michi, Nara Prefecture