Murou Art Forest, also known as Murou Sanjo Park Art Forest (室生山上公園芸術の森), is nestled in the serene mountains of Murou, a village in Uda City, Nara Prefecture, Japan. Located on a hilltop, the park offers breathtaking views of the ancient Murou-ji Temple, which enhances the park’s cultural value in addition to the natural scenery.

A Vision Born from Local Roots

Murou Art Forest was established back to a local effort aimed at promoting the area and attracting visitors. Bukichi Inoue, a renowned sculptor from the village of Murou, first proposed the idea. Inoue’s vision was to create a harmonious blend of art and nature where sculptures would seamlessly integrate into the landscape. Israeli artist Dani Karavan further developed and realized Inoue’s idea, designing and completing the park in 2006.

A Dialogue with Time and Nature

Karavan’s large-scale installations, inspired by themes of time, memory, and the connection between humans and nature, are thoughtfully placed throughout the park. Each sculpture tells a unique story, creating a unique dialogue between art and nature.

The Sun Tower is a striking landmark and a central piece in the Murou Art Forest. This minimalist structure functions as a sundial, stands 8 meters tall, and is constructed of weathering steel, echoing the passage of time that the tower symbolizes. The sculpture also aligns with the “Road of the Sun”, a legendary line of 34°32’ north latitude associated with ancient sun worship in Japan.

The Spiral Canal is another mesmerizing artwork within Murou Art Forest. It is a meandering canal that runs through the landscape, resembling a coiled snake. The canal is lined with smooth stones and filled with clear water, creating a serene and reflective atmosphere.

The sculpture’s spiral form symbolizes the cyclical nature of time and the continuous flow of life. The gentle sound of water flowing through the canal adds to the calming ambiance, creating a multi-sensory experience.

Murou Art Forest features several other sculptures and artworks scattered throughout the forest that you should come to truly appreciate the beauty and wonder of this magical place.

Visit Murou Art Forest

Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Closed on Tuesday

Address: 181 Murou, Uda, Nara 633-0411, Japan