Complete Guide to Korinji Temple (Ishikawa Prefecture): The Temple of Wishes and the Charm of the Twelve Zodiac Animals and White Spider Lilies
Located in the Teramachi temple district of Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture, Korinji Temple is a renowned Soto Zen temple that attracts many worshippers from all over Japan as a “temple of wishes.” This guide thoroughly introduces the temple, from its history and worship methods to its highlights, including its unique worship method of entrusting one’s wishes to one’s zodiac sign, and its rare white spider lilies that bloom in autumn.
History and Origins of Korinji Temple
Established by a Senior Retainer of the Kaga Domain
Korinji Temple was established in 1651 (Keian 4), during the time of Maeda Toshitsune, the third lord of the Kaga Domain. Aoki Gohei, who held the position of senior retainer of the Kaga Domain, petitioned the lord, and the temple was founded with Reverend Chogan as its founding priest. Its official name is “Shinshozan Korinji,” and it belongs to the Soto Zen sect.
A Corner of the Teramachi Temple District
The Teramachi Temple District in Kanazawa City is an area where the Kaga Domain gathered temples as a defensive base for its castle town. Korinji Temple occupies a corner of this district and has attracted the faith of local people for over 370 years. In recent years, its reputation as a temple for granting wishes has grown, attracting many visitors from within and outside the prefecture throughout the year.
Reasons for its Famousness as a Temple for Granting Wishes
The Garden of the Twelve Zodiac Animals
The main reason Korinji Temple has become famous as a temple for granting wishes is the “Garden of the Twelve Zodiac Animals” located within its grounds. In this garden, statues of each of the twelve zodiac animals are arranged according to their respective directions, and it is said that by entrusting your wish to your zodiac animal, your wish will be granted within a year.
Within the garden, there is a pilgrimage path called the “Path of Happiness,” where visitors make their wishes while walking along this path. In addition to the twelve zodiac statues, there are also “Fudo Myoo (Acala) for Good Fortune” and “Sixteen Arhats” statues, warmly welcoming visitors.
Diverse Blessings
Korinji Temple offers blessings for a variety of wishes, including success in love, marriage, career success, and financial fortune. It is particularly popular among younger generations for prayers related to love and marriage, and offers numerous amulets that address current trends and everyday concerns.
The Correct Way to Make a Wish
How to Walk the Path to Happiness
To ensure your wish is fulfilled, it is important to follow the correct worship procedure. Please follow these steps to make your wish:
- Receive a sash at the reception: First, pay the entrance fee at the main hall and receive a sash for making a wish.
- Write your wish on the sash: Carefully write your wish on the sash.
- Walk the Path to Happiness twice: Slowly walk around the “Path to Happiness” in the garden of the twelve zodiac animals twice. During this time, be sure to check the position of your zodiac sign.
- Making a wish at the zodiac statue on the third lap: On the third lap, stop in front of your zodiac statue, put on the sash, and make your wish.
- Concluding with the White Fudo Myoo: Finally, pay your respects to the Lucky Fudo Myoo (White Fudo) to complete your wish-making.
Wishes of family and loved ones too
At Korinji Temple, you can pray not only for yourself but also for your family, loved ones, and other important people. In that case, it will be smoother if you check the position of each person’s zodiac sign beforehand. Please note that the zodiac statues are arranged according to direction, not in order.
Highlights inside the hall
The main deity and other Buddhas
The main hall houses the main deity, Shakyamuni Buddha. In addition, the temple enshrines the “Good Fortune and Lucky Charm Fudo Myoo,” believed to bring healing from illness and good fortune, and the “Happiness Jizo Bodhisattva (Child-Holding Jizo),” which grants wishes related to safe childbirth, conception, and children. Visitors can pray according to their specific wishes.
Throwing Wishes into the Success Daruma
Inside the main hall is a large Daruma statue called the “Success Daruma,” where visitors can experience throwing wishes into its mouth. By throwing a wish-granting ball into the Daruma’s mouth, visitors pray for career advancement and improved work luck. This is a popular activity for both children and adults, as it’s enjoyable like a game.
Works by Living National Treasure Kimura Uzan
In the Japanese-style room to the right of the main hall, over 80 shikishi (square paper boards) and tanzaku (narrow strips of paper) depicting flowers, birds, wind, and the moon, painted by Kimura Uzan, the only Kaga Yuzen artist designated as a Living National Treasure, are on display. These works, painted with delicate brushstrokes, possess extremely high artistic value and are well worth admiring.
Hirai Mokukan’s Noh Mask Collection
Also in the Japanese-style room, 61 Noh masks donated by Hirai Mokukan, a Noh mask maker who was active mainly in Aichi Prefecture, are on display. These masterful works, expressing a variety of human emotions such as laughter, tears, and anger, each possess a unique personality that captivates viewers.
Clusters of White Spider Lilies
Rare White Spider Lilies in Japan
Korinji Temple attracts the most visitors throughout the year during the autumn equinox. Every year from mid- to late September (around Silver Week), clusters of white spider lilies, rare in Japan, bloom on the temple grounds.
Unlike the common red spider lilies, the pure white petals create a fantastical atmosphere. During this time, many photography enthusiasts and tourists from within and outside the prefecture visit, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere on the temple grounds.
Limited-Time Illumination
A limited-time illumination event is sometimes held to coincide with the peak blooming season of white spider lilies. The white spider lilies, illuminated at night, display a different, more fantastical beauty than during the day. Detailed dates and times for the illumination are announced periodically on Korinji Temple’s official Instagram and website, so it is recommended to check before visiting.
Best Blooming Season
The best time to see white spider lilies is usually from late September to early October. However, the blooming period may vary depending on the climate of the year, so please check the official website and social media for the latest information.
Goshuin (Temple Seal) and Goshuincho (Stamp Book)
Original Goshuin
At Korinji Temple, you can receive a goshuin as a memento of your visit. Present your goshuincho at the reception in the main hall, and they will carefully write it for you. The goshuin will include the date, temple name, and principal image of Buddha.
Original Goshuincho
Original goshuincho (stamp books) from Korinji Temple are also available for purchase. The designs sometimes change with the seasons, making it one of the joys of a visit. If you don’t already have a goshuincho (stamp book), this is a great opportunity to purchase one and begin your goshuin pilgrimage.
Popular Amulets and Their Blessings
Amulets Tailored to Trends
Korinji Temple offers a variety of amulets tailored to the needs of the times. They offer amulets that address the worries and wishes of modern people, such as those for romantic success, matchmaking, passing exams, safe childbirth, and health and longevity.
Amulets related to love and marriage are particularly popular among younger generations. Their cute designs are popular for their social media appeal. Amulets related to career success and financial luck are also popular, and the number of business people visiting the temple is increasing.
Seasonal Amulets
There are also limited-edition amulets that are only given out during specific seasons, such as when white spider lilies are in bloom. Encountering different amulets depending on the time of year is one of the charms of Korinji Temple.
Access Information
Address and Basic Information
Address: 1-3-15 Nomachi, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture
Phone Number: 076-241-3905
Visiting Hours: Normally 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM (may vary depending on the season)
Admission Fee: 500 yen for adults (may change depending on the season or special openings)
Parking: Available (approximately 10 spaces)
Access by Public Transportation
From JR Kanazawa Station:
- Get off at the “Hirokoji” bus stop on the Hokutetsu Bus, approximately 3 minutes on foot
- You can also use the Kanazawa City Loop Bus and get off at the “Hirokoji” bus stop.
Buses are relatively frequent, making access from Kanazawa Station convenient. The temple is within walking distance from the bus stop, and other temples are scattered along the way, allowing you to enjoy a stroll through the temple district while visiting.
Access by Car
From the Hokuriku Expressway:
- Approximately 5.9 km from Kanazawa-Nishi Interchange (approximately 15 minutes by car)
- Approximately 11 km from Kanazawa-Morimoto Interchange (approximately 25 minutes by car)
There is parking space for about 10 cars, but congestion is expected during the peak season for white spider lilies and when events are held. Large vehicles should be careful when entering and exiting the temple gate. If the parking lot is full, consider using nearby coin-operated parking lots.
Combine with Sightseeing
The Teramachi temple district, where Korinji Temple is located, is home to many other temples. You can visit several temples within walking distance, including Myoryu-ji Temple (Ninja Temple) and other temples known as wish-granting temples. Nishi Chaya District is also nearby, allowing you to enjoy the traditional streetscape of Kanazawa.
Points to Note and Manners When Visiting
Clothing and Items to Bring
As this is a temple visit, please avoid revealing clothing and dress appropriately. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as you will be walking through the gardens. The temple is crowded with many visitors during the white spider lily season, so please allow ample time for your visit.
Photography
Photography is generally permitted within the temple grounds and gardens, but photography of Buddhist statues and exhibits inside the main hall may be prohibited. Please be sure to check before taking photos and be considerate of other visitors.
Maintaining Silence
Korinji Temple is both a tourist destination and a place of spiritual training. Please refrain from loud conversations and noisy behavior, and strive to worship quietly.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Teramachi Temple District
The Teramachi Temple District, which includes Korinji Temple, is home to over 70 temples. Each temple has its own unique characteristics, making temple hopping enjoyable. Myoryu-ji Temple (Ninja Temple) is particularly famous for its architecture full of mechanical devices, and visits are possible by prior reservation.
Nishi Chaya District
Nishi Chaya District, located about a 10-minute walk from Korinji Temple, is one of Kanazawa’s three geisha districts. Traditional townhouses line the streets, and you’ll find a variety of shops selling Japanese sweets, cafes, and crafts. Enjoy the atmosphere of Kanazawa while strolling around.
Kanazawa 21st Century Museum
The Kanazawa 21st Century Museum, a contemporary art museum attracting attention both domestically and internationally, is about a 10-minute drive away. Combining a traditional experience at Korinji Temple with the appreciation of contemporary art allows you to fully enjoy the diverse charms of Kanazawa.
Korinji Temple in Every Season
Spring at Korinji Temple
In spring, the cherry blossoms in the temple grounds bloom, creating a tranquil atmosphere. In the season of fresh greenery, the trees in the garden are beautiful, making for a refreshing visit.
Summer at Korinji Temple
In summer, the lush garden creates a cool and refreshing atmosphere. Even on hot days, there is plenty of shade, making for a relatively comfortable visit.
Autumn at Korinji Temple
Autumn is the season when the most visitors come. The clusters of white spider lilies are breathtaking, and the contrast with the autumn leaves is also beautiful. ### Korinji Temple in Winter
Korinji Temple, covered in snow, is truly special. The tranquil winter grounds offer the perfect atmosphere for calming your mind and making a wish.
Voices of Actual Visitors
Numerous Reports of Wishes Coming True
Many reports have been received of wishes coming true after praying at Korinji Temple. Stories of wishes fulfilled—for love, marriage, passing exams, finding employment, and more—have been posted on social media and review sites.
A Calming Space
Many visitors comment on the temple’s peaceful and calming atmosphere, the ability to pray thoughtfully, and the beautiful gardens. It’s renowned as a place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and spend precious time reflecting on oneself.
Many Repeat Visitors
Many people who have had their wishes granted return to offer thanks or to make new wishes. Enjoying the temple’s seasonal beauty is another reason for its many repeat visitors.
Enjoying the Temple’s Seasonal Appearances is another reason for its high number of repeat visitors. ## Summary: Make a Heartfelt Wish at Korinji Temple
Korinji Temple, located in Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture, is a special temple with a history of over 370 years, continuing to support the wishes of people today. It offers many attractions, including making wishes to the twelve zodiac animal statues, viewing clusters of white spider lilies, and appreciating works by Living National Treasures.
If you follow the correct worship procedures and make your wish with sincerity, your wish is sure to come true. When sightseeing in Kanazawa, be sure to visit Korinji Temple and spend some special time there. It is especially beautiful during the white spider lily season, creating a lifelong memory.
Why not entrust your precious wish to the twelve zodiac animal statues at Korinji Temple, famous as a temple for making wishes? It will surely be a memorable pilgrimage experience.
