Oji

Ōji is a small town in Kitakatsuragi district, Nara Prefecture, that blends residential neighborhoods with natural surroundings and local temples. The layout shows how residential areas have developed alongside green spaces and spiritual sites.

The town was founded in 1889 during Japan's Meiji period modernization, when the nation restructured its administrative divisions. Its roots trace back to the ancient Yamato region, which shaped the cultural landscape for centuries.

The Daruma temple serves as a spiritual center where locals gather for seasonal ceremonies and daily worship practices. People come here to experience traditional rituals that remain woven into the rhythm of community life.

The town is accessible via a railway station that connects to multiple train lines, making it easy to reach from surrounding areas. From the station, visitors can explore the town on foot and reach the main sites without difficulty.

Each November, the town hosts an event that connects stargazing with Japanese cultural traditions, drawing people together for the occasion. This annual gathering reveals how astronomy and cultural practices remain linked in the community.

Location: Nara Prefecture

Location: Kitakatsuragi district

Inception: April 1, 1889

Shares border with: Kashiba, Kawai, Kanmaki, Sango, Ikaruga, Kashiwara

Website: https://town.oji.nara.jp

GPS coordinates: 34.59467,135.70656

Latest update: December 7, 2025 09:21