Kinkoin Temple (Suzu City, Ishikawa Prefecture) Complete Guide | A Hidden Gem of Noto: A Temple of Folk Tales and a Muromachi Period Garden
Located in Awazu, Misaki-cho, Suzu City, at the tip of the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture, Kinkoin Temple is an ancient Rinzai Zen temple beloved by locals as a temple of folk tales. With its charming garden believed to have been built during the Muromachi period, valuable Buddhist paintings designated as city cultural properties, and folk tales surrounding the legendary Edo-period figure “Sannyomon,” it’s attracting attention as a fascinating tourist spot where history and culture intersect.
This article comprehensively introduces everything you need to know before visiting Kinkoin Temple, from its historical background and highlights to access methods and nearby tourist spots.
About Kotoein Temple | An Ancient Temple that Preserves the History of Noto
History and Origins of Kotoein Temple
Kotoein Temple is a Rinzai Zen Buddhist temple founded during the Edo period. It is located on a hill in Awazu, Misaki-cho, Suzu City, at the tip of the Noto Peninsula. Since its founding, it has played an important role as a center of faith and a cultural hub for the region.
The temple’s name, “Kotoein,” is said to have been derived from the beautiful coastline of the region and the gentle sound of waves resonating like the sound of a koto (Japanese harp). It functioned as a spiritual pillar for the local residents throughout the Edo period and continues to uphold that tradition today.
Characteristics as a Temple of Folk Tales
Kotoein Temple is famous as a “temple of folk tales” because of its deep connection to numerous folk tales about a person named “Sannyomon,” who is said to have actually existed in Misaki-cho, Suzu City, during the Edo period. Sanyomon was a figure known for his witty responses, and many anecdotes about his cleverness, reminiscent of Ikkyu-san, have been passed down through generations.
These folk tales are carefully preserved as part of the local oral culture, and Kotoein Temple remains one of the settings for these tales, attracting many folk tale enthusiasts and history researchers. The temple also houses exhibits and materials related to the folk tales, making it a valuable place to learn about the folk culture of Noto.
Highlights of Kotoein Temple | Cultural Properties and Garden Beauty
Buddhist Painting Collection Designated as a City Cultural Property
The Buddhist paintings housed at Kotoein Temple are valuable works of art protected as designated cultural properties of Suzu City. These paintings were created from the Edo period to the Meiji period, and serve as important historical documents that convey the techniques of Buddhist art and the state of faith of that time.
Of particular note is the statue of the Thousand-Armed Kannon Bodhisattva, believed to have been created by the same artist who created the principal image of Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto. This Buddhist painting, with its delicate brushwork and majestic atmosphere, is highly regarded by experts and serves as evidence of the richness of Buddhist culture in the Noto region.
Muromachi Period Style Garden
The garden of Kotoein Temple is a historic Japanese garden said to have been created during the Muromachi period. Composed of two areas—a raised area and a flat garden—it is a valuable cultural heritage that conveys the unique garden design style of the Muromachi period.
Features of the Raised Garden
The raised garden skillfully utilizes the natural terrain, with stones and plants arranged in exquisite balance. The three-dimensional landscape, utilizing the difference in elevation, embodies the garden aesthetics of the Muromachi period, allowing visitors to enjoy its changing expressions throughout the seasons.
Charm of the Flat Garden
The flat garden is designed as a space where one can feel the spirituality of Zen in a tranquil atmosphere. Moss-covered stones and well-maintained plants provide peace of mind to visitors. Especially during the seasons of fresh greenery and autumn leaves, the entire garden is enveloped in beautiful colors, captivating visitors.
Historic Bell Tower
Kotoein Temple has an old bell tower designated as a cultural property. This bell tower is a valuable structure that preserves the architectural style of the Edo period, and is an important resource for understanding the architectural techniques and aesthetic sensibilities of that time. The sound of the bell still tells the time in the area, telling the story of the temple’s deep history.
Basic Information and Access to Kotoein Temple
Location and Contact Information
Address: Awazu, Misaki-machi, Suzu City, Ishikawa Prefecture 927-1452
Phone Number: 0768-88-2730
Opening Hours: Open every day (However, visits may be closed due to memorial services, etc., so prior confirmation is recommended)
Admission Fee: Please inquire (Please contact us in advance)
Access Methods
Access by Car
- Approximately 160 minutes from the Hokuriku Expressway “Kanazawa Morimoto IC”
- Via Noto Satoyama Expressway, Noto Expressway, and Suzu Road
- Located at the tip of the Noto Peninsula, it is also a popular driving route for enjoying the scenery
Access by Public Transportation
- Approximately 150 minutes by express bus from JR Kanazawa Station, get off at the “Suzunarikan-mae” bus stop
- Transfer to the Misaki Line local bus (bound for Misaki), approximately 28 minutes
- Get off at the “Kotoein-mae” bus stop and walk for about 2 minutes.
Located at the very tip of the Noto Peninsula, access by public transport takes time, but the beautiful coastline and rural scenery of Noto viewed from the bus window are a major attraction of the trip.
Points to Note When Visiting
- Estimated Time Required: Approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour for strolling through the garden and viewing the Buddhist paintings.
- Best Season: May to June (fresh greenery) and October to November (autumn foliage) are especially recommended.
- Photography: Photography is permitted in the garden, but prior confirmation is required for photography of cultural artifacts such as Buddhist paintings.
- Attire: Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as you will be strolling through the garden.
Recommended Tourist Spots Around Kotoein
Highlights of the Noto Peninsula’s Tip Area
The area around Misaki-cho, Suzu City, where Kotoein is located, is dotted with attractive tourist spots unique to the Noto Peninsula.
Rokugozaki Lighthouse
This white lighthouse stands at the very tip of the Noto Peninsula, approximately a 15-minute drive from Kotoein. Selected as one of “Japan’s 50 Best Lighthouses,” it offers breathtaking views where the sea and sky merge. On clear days, a grand panorama of the Sea of Japan unfolds, making it a rare spot where you can witness both sunrise and sunset.
Mitsukejima Island (Battleship Island)
Mitsukejima Island, a symbol of Suzu City, is approximately a 30-minute drive from Kotoein. The sight of the massive 28-meter-high rock floating in the sea is truly awe-inspiring, resembling a battleship. At low tide, you can walk close to the island, experiencing its natural beauty up close.
Suzu Cape
This cape juts out into the Sea of Japan, offering magnificent views from its sheer cliffs. A well-maintained walking trail allows for enjoyable hiking while experiencing the natural beauty of Noto.
Cultural Experience Facilities in Noto
Suzu Pottery Museum
This facility allows you to learn about the history and techniques of Suzu pottery, which flourished from the Heian period to the Muromachi period. Visiting it in conjunction with Kotoein Temple will give you a deeper understanding of Noto’s history and culture.
Suzunari-kan
As a tourist information hub for Suzu City, it provides information on local specialties and tourist attractions. It is also a starting point for bus access to Kotoein Temple, making it ideal for gathering information before your visit.
Gourmet Food and Souvenirs Around Kotoein Temple
Enjoy the Seafood of Noto
The area around Suzu City is a treasure trove of fresh seafood. You can enjoy Noto’s unique cuisine in conjunction with your visit to Kotoein Temple.
Local Fish Dishes of Noto
Dishes made with fresh seafood landed at local fishing ports are exquisite. In particular, yellowtail, sweet shrimp, and rock oysters are known as representative seafood of Noto. There are many restaurants around Misaki Town that utilize local ingredients.
Suzu Salt
Suzu salt, made using the traditional Noto salt-making method known as “agehama-shiki,” is a popular souvenir. Rich in minerals and possessing a deep flavor, it enhances the taste of food.
Noto Specialty Products
Suzu Pottery
Suzu pottery, which flourished in the Middle Ages, has been revived by contemporary ceramic artists and is gaining popularity as a unique and distinctive type of pottery.
Noto Wine
Wine produced utilizing the climate and terroir of Noto is attracting attention as a new regional specialty.
Noto Sightseeing Model Course Including Kotoein Temple
Day Trip Course (Departing from Kanazawa)
8:00 Departure from Kanazawa Station (by car)
10:30 Arrival at Kotoein Temple, visit and stroll through the garden (1 hour)
12:00 Seafood lunch around Misaki-machi
13:30 Sightseeing at Rokugozaki Lighthouse
15:00 Stroll around Mitsukejima Island (Battleship Island)
16:30 Visit to Suzu Pottery Museum
18:30 Return to Kanazawa Station
2-Day/1-Night Course (Noto Full Enjoyment Plan)
Day 1
- Morning: Departure from Kanazawa, travel to Noto via the Noto Satoyama Kaido
- Lunch: Stroll and lunch at Wajima Morning Market
- Afternoon: Visit Shirayone Senmaida Rice Terraces and Kotoein Temple
- Evening: Check-in at Suzu Onsen
Day 2
- Morning: Rokugozaki Lighthouse, Mitsukejima Island sightseeing
- Lunch: Noto seafood cuisine
- Afternoon: Suzu ware pottery experience, return to Kanazawa
History and Culture of Noto to Know Before Visiting Kotoein Temple
Buddhist Culture of Noto
The Noto Peninsula has long been a region where Buddhist culture flourished, with many ancient temples scattered throughout. Kotoein Temple is one of them, supporting the spiritual culture of the region. The teachings of Rinzai Zen Buddhism are deeply rooted in the lives and values of the people of Noto.
Folktales and Oral Culture
The Noto region retains a rich culture of folktales, including the Sannyomon legend. These folktales are not merely entertainment, but important cultural heritage that conveys wisdom and lessons for life. Visiting Kotoein Temple allows you to rediscover the value of this oral culture.
Garden Culture of the Muromachi Period
The Muromachi period, when the garden of Kotoein Temple was created, was a time when the aesthetics of Japanese gardens greatly developed. The influence of Zen Buddhism led to the establishment of dry landscape gardens and garden design techniques that emphasized harmony with nature, forming the foundation of modern Japanese gardens. The garden of Kotoein Temple is a valuable example that conveys the aesthetic sensibilities of that era.
Practical Information for Visiting Kotoein Temple
Nearby Accommodations
There are several accommodations near Kotoein Temple where you can enjoy the nature of Noto.
Suzu Onsen
This hot spring, located at the tip of the Noto Peninsula, boasts an open-air bath overlooking the Sea of Japan. It’s approximately a 20-minute drive from Kotoein Temple, making it an ideal base for sightseeing.
Guesthouses and Pensions
There are also guesthouses and pensions scattered throughout the area where you can enjoy home-style cooking using local ingredients and experience the warm hospitality of the people of Noto.
Seasonal Highlights
Spring (March-May)
- A beautiful season for the gardens with fresh greenery
- Mild weather, perfect for strolling
Summer (June-August)
- Lush, vibrant greenery
- Popular for combining with Noto’s beaches
Autumn (September-November)
- The most beautiful season, with autumn leaves coloring the gardens
- Enjoy the autumn flavors of Noto
Winter (December-February)
- The serene beauty of the snow-covered gardens
- The tranquility of the temple contrasts with the roughness of the winter Sea of Japan
Notes for Visitors
- As this is a religious site, please observe proper etiquette during your visit.
- Please refrain from touching the plants and stonework in the garden.
- Maintain silence and be considerate of other visitors.
- Please take all your trash with you.
- The temple may be closed for religious services or events, so it is recommended to check in advance.
The Charm of Kotoein Temple and the Noto Peninsula
Harmony of Noto’s Nature and Culture
The Noto Peninsula, where Kotoein Temple is located, was designated a “Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System” in 2011. The rich natural environment of the satoyama (rural landscape) and satoumi (coastal landscape), and the traditional culture nurtured there, still thrive today. Kotoein Temple, as part of Noto’s cultural landscape, plays an important role in shaping the region’s identity.
Commitment to Sustainable Tourism
In recent years, the Noto Peninsula has been promoting sustainable tourism. By appropriately preserving historical and cultural heritage sites like Kotoein Temple while opening them to visitors, the aim is to achieve both regional revitalization and cultural transmission. It is important for visitors to understand these efforts and strive for responsible tourism.
Summary | Experiencing Noto’s History and Culture at Kotoein Temple
Kotoein Temple in Suzu City, Ishikawa Prefecture, is a representative historical spot of the Noto Peninsula, possessing cultural value as the setting for folk tales, a garden with beauty dating back to the Muromachi period, Buddhist paintings designated as a city cultural property, and a garden that has been preserved since the Muromachi period. Located at the very tip of the Noto Peninsula, Kotoin Temple requires some time to access, but this is precisely what makes it worthwhile to visit, offering a tranquility and beauty that is well worth the effort.
Combining its natural beauty, such as the Rokugozaki Lighthouse and Mitsukejima Island, with the culture and cuisine of Suzu ware and Noto’s seafood, creates a sightseeing route that allows you to deeply experience the charm of the Noto Peninsula. We recommend a visit to Kotoin Temple to history buffs, those interested in garden art, those interested in folklore culture, and anyone who wants to experience Noto’s rich nature and culture.
At Kotoin Temple, nestled on a quiet hilltop in Noto, why not forget the passage of time and immerse yourself in the depths of traditional Japanese culture? The garden, which displays different expressions in each season, the cultural artifacts that tell the story of history, and the world of folklore rooted in the region will provide visitors with an unforgettable experience.
