About Myōryūji Temple (Ninja Temple)
Myōryūji Temple, located in Nomachi, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture, is a Nichiren Buddhist temple affectionately known as the “Ninja Temple.” While its exterior is two stories, its interior boasts a seven-story structure with 23 rooms and 29 staircases.
Why it’s called the Ninja Temple
Established in 1643 (Kanei 20) by Maeda Toshitsune, the third lord of the Kaga Domain, as an outpost of Kanazawa Castle, it incorporates numerous defensive mechanisms to prevent intrusion by the Tokugawa Shogunate. Although unrelated to actual ninjas, its complex structure led to its nickname, the “Ninja Temple.”
Highlights and Features
Hidden Rooms and Secret Passages
- Hidden Staircase: A seemingly ordinary floorboard conceals a staircase, serving as an emergency escape route.
- Observation Platform: A panoramic observation space for monitoring enemy movements.
- Pitfall Staircase: A trapdoor that opens when the treads are removed.
- Light-Gathering Staircase: Designed to let in light while preventing enemy intrusion.
- Hidden Room: A small room hidden behind a wall, serving as an emergency refuge.
Architectural Features
The main hall appears two stories from the outside, but its interior boasts a complex structure of four floors and seven levels. The labyrinthine corridors, multiple entrances, and even a room for ritual suicide (seppuku) convey the tension of the Sengoku period through its architectural style.
Points to Note During Your Visit
About Guided Tours
Interior tours of Myoryu-ji Temple are by reservation only. Individual, self-guided tours are not permitted.
- Duration: Approximately 40 minutes
- Reservation Method: Telephone reservation (076-241-0888) or via the official website
- Tour Content: Detailed guided tour with expert commentary
- Note: Children under elementary school age are not permitted (for safety reasons)
Admission Fee
- Adults: 1,000 yen
- Elementary and Junior High School Students: 700 yen
Visiting Hours
- Weekdays & Saturdays: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Sundays & Public Holidays: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Winter (December – February): May have shortened hours
Benefits and Faith
As a Nichiren Buddhist Temple
Myoryu-ji Temple is an official Nichiren Buddhist temple and functions not only as a place of worship but also as a place of religious significance.
- Good Fortune and Protection from Evil: The complex structure is believed to ward off evil spirits.
- Family Safety: Historically, it served as a place of prayer for the Maeda family.
- Academic Success: As a symbol of wisdom and ingenuity.
Goshuin (Temple Seal)
You can receive a Goshuin at the main hall. The special Goshuin with the words “Ninja Temple” is popular as a memento of your visit.
Access
Public Transportation
- From JR Kanazawa Station: Get off at “Hirokoji” bus stop on the Hokutetsu Bus, 2-minute walk
- Bus Route: Use routes 8 or 18
- Travel Time: Approximately 15 minutes from Kanazawa Station
By Car
- Hokuriku Expressway: Approximately 20 minutes from Kanazawa-Nishi IC
- Parking: Dedicated parking available (free, approximately 10 cars)
- Caution: Located near Nishi Chaya District; the roads are narrow, so caution is advised.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
- Nishi Chaya District: 5-minute walk, one of Kanazawa’s three geisha districts
- Nagamachi Samurai District: 15-minute walk
- Kenrokuen Garden: Approximately 10 minutes by car
Basic Information
- Address: 1-2-12 Nomachi, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture
- Phone: 076-241-0888
- Sect: Nichiren Buddhism
- Founded: 1643 (Kanei 20)
- Cultural Property Designation: Kanazawa City Designated Cultural Property
Notes for Visitors
- Visits without a reservation are not permitted.
- The interior has many stairs; please watch your step.
- Photography is partially restricted.
- As this is a religious facility, please be mindful of proper etiquette during your visit.
- Early reservations are recommended during peak seasons (Golden Week, summer holidays, autumn foliage season).
