Natadera Temple (Ishikawa Prefecture) Complete Guide | History, Highlights, Access, and Four-Season Appeal Thoroughly Explained
Natadera Temple (那谷寺), located in Komatsushi, Ishikawa Prefecture, is a special branch temple of the Koyasan Shingon sect boasting over 1,300 years of history. As a sacred site of Hakusan faith, it has long been revered and, as a renowned temple that earned one star in the Michelin Green Guide Japan, attracts many pilgrims from both within Japan and abroad. The unique landscape called Kigan Yusenkyou (fantastic rocky landscape), numerous important cultural properties, and natural beauty that changes with each season continue to captivate visitors.
This article provides comprehensive information you should know before visiting, from the historical background of Natadera Temple, highlights within the temple grounds, viewing information, seasonal enjoyment, to surrounding tourist spots.
History and Origin of Natadera Temple
Temple Founding by Taichō Daishi (Yōrō 1st Year, 717)
The history of Natadera Temple dates back to Yōrō 1st year (717). According to legend, Taichō Shinyū Zenji (Taichō Daishi), known for establishing Mount Hakusan, received a divine message from the Thousand-Armed Kannon in a dream and enshrined the Thousand-Armed Kannon in a rocky cave at this location.
Taichō Daishi is known as a central figure in Hakusan faith and opened many sacred sites throughout the Hokuriku region. Natadera Temple developed as one of these, serving as a center of worship for the deity of Mount Hakusan. Initially called “Iwayaji” (Rock Cave Temple), it was a shrine with a primitive form of worship that utilized natural rock caves directly as sacred grounds.
Emperor Enzan and the Renaming to “Natadera”
In the Heian period, the visit of Emperor Enzan in Kanko 2nd year (1005) became a significant turning point in the history of Natadera Temple. Emperor Enzan is known as a person who, after his abdication, made a pilgrimage to the thirty-three Kannon pilgrimage sites in Western Japan.
When Emperor Enzan visited Iwayaji Temple, he found that the place resembled the sacred grounds of the first and thirty-third pilgrimage sites—Nachi-san and Tanigumi-san—of the thirty-three Kannon pilgrimage sites of Western Japan. It is said that he took one character from each temple’s mountain name and renamed it “Natadera.” Through this change, Natadera Temple, despite being in the Hokuriku region, came to be regarded as a sacred site where one could receive the blessings of the thirty-three Kannon pilgrimage sites of Western Japan, gathering even more believers.
Desolation in the Sengoku Period and Restoration by Maeda Toshitsune
Natadera Temple faced numerous trials throughout its long history. Particularly during the Sengoku period, most temple structures were destroyed by fire during the Ikkō Ikki uprisings, and the temple experienced such severe devastation that it lost its function as a religious institution.
In the early Edo period, Natadera Temple was magnificently restored by Maeda Toshitsune, the third feudal lord of the Kaga domain. A major reconstruction project spanning approximately 20 years from Kanei 19th year (1642) resulted in the construction of the main hall, three-tiered pagoda, homa hall, bell tower, and other major buildings that can be seen today. These structures, which convey the architectural style of the early Edo period, are designated as national important cultural properties.
Matsuo Bashō and “The Narrow Road to the Deep North”
In Genroku 2nd year (1689), the haiku poet Matsuo Bashō visited Natadera Temple during his journey along “The Narrow Road to the Deep North.” Bashō was deeply impressed by the landscape of this place and composed the poem “Whiter than the stone of the stone mountain is the autumn wind.”
The autumn scenery of Natadera Temple that Bashō witnessed is detailed in “The Narrow Road to the Deep North,” and the mysterious atmosphere of Kigan Yusenkyou is recorded as a literary work. Due to this historical connection, Natadera Temple was designated as a national scenic spot as a “Landscape of The Narrow Road to the Deep North” in 2014.
Highlights Within the Temple Grounds and Important Cultural Properties
Within the grounds of Natadera Temple, seven nationally designated important cultural properties and one nationally designated scenic spot are concentrated, representing high historical and cultural value buildings and landscapes.
Kigan Yusenkyou (Nationally Designated Scenic Spot)
“Kigan Yusenkyou,” the greatest highlight of Natadera Temple, is a natural formation of beauty created by volcanic activity approximately 20 million years ago and long-term erosion by ocean currents. The continuous giant rock faces form a ravine-like landscape that creates a fantastical scenery as if bringing a landscape painting to reality.
This rocky area has been revered as a sacred place since ancient times. Within the rock cave is enshrined the main deity, the Thousand-Armed Kannon. Pilgrims can experience “taigo-kuguri” (womb passage) by passing through this cave. This ritual symbolizes conception in the womb and rebirth as “regeneration” and forms the core of the Natadera pilgrimage experience.
Kigan Yusenkyou is evaluated for its unique landscape and earned one star in the Michelin Green Guide Japan. Especially during the autumn foliage season, the contrast between the rocky formations and red leaves creates a magnificent spectacle.
Main Hall (Daihikaku) – Important Cultural Property
The main hall of Natadera Temple, also called “Daihikaku,” is a building reconstructed in Kanei 19th year (1642) during the early Edo period. As the central building of the reconstruction project by Maeda Toshitsune, it is a magnificent structure demonstrating the financial and technological capabilities of the Kaga domain at that time.
The main hall was built in a suspended construction style (kakekuzukuri), jutting out from a cliff, which is spectacular. Inside is enshrined the main deity, the Thousand-Armed Kannon, and the interior is ornately decorated with brilliant colors.
Three-Tiered Pagoda – Important Cultural Property
One of the buildings symbolizing the temple grounds, the three-tiered pagoda was established in Kanei 19th year (1642). Its graceful form, approximately 25 meters high, harmonizes with the surrounding nature and characterizes the landscape of Natadera Temple.
The three-tiered pagoda was constructed in pure Japanese architectural style, characterized by well-proportioned ratios at each level and delicate ornamentation. The appearance of the three-tiered pagoda against new green in spring and autumn foliage is a famous photography spot representing Natadera Temple.
Homa Hall – Important Cultural Property
The homa hall is a structure for performing homa, an important ritual in Shingon esoteric Buddhism. It was established in Kanei 19th year (1642) and was developed simultaneously with the main hall and three-tiered pagoda.
Inside is enshrined Acala (Fudō Myōō), and homa offerings are regularly performed here. Pilgrims can write wishes on homa sticks and offer them, and it is also possible to receive prayers from monks.
Bell Tower – Important Cultural Property
Positioned on elevated ground within the temple grounds, the bell tower was established in Kanei 19th year (1642). With its open, airy structure, the temple bell (bonshō) is a valuable example of casting technique from the early Edo period.
On New Year’s Eve, general pilgrims can ring the bell for the New Year’s bell-ringing ceremony, making it a tradition beloved by local people to welcome the new year.
Study and Storehouse Storeroom Garden – Important Cultural Property
The study is a building serving both as living quarters and reception space for the temple, and the storehouse (kuri) serves as the temple kitchen and administrative office. The study and storehouse of Natadera Temple preserve the early Edo period architectural style well and are valuable materials for understanding the actual state of temple architecture at that time.
Particularly, the garden attached to the study is designed as a stroll garden with a pond, allowing one to enjoy the ambiance of each season. The stone arrangements and plantings show early Edo period landscaping techniques, and both the building and garden are designated as important cultural properties.
View from the Observation Deck
An observation deck is set up on elevated ground within the temple grounds, offering a panoramic view of Natadera Temple. You can view at a glance how Kigan Yusenkyou, the three-tiered pagoda, and the main hall harmonize with nature.
Especially during the autumn foliage season, the entire temple grounds turn red and yellow, and many photography enthusiasts visit. While climbing stone steps to reach the observation deck requires effort, a wonderful view awaits your efforts.
The Appeal of Natadera Temple Throughout the Four Seasons
Natadera Temple is so characterized by “presenting different appearances in each season” that it is officially proclaimed.
Spring (March–May): Blossoms Coloring the Temple Grounds
In spring, Natadera Temple is decorated by various flowers including plum, cherry blossoms, and azaleas. From late March to early April, cherry blossoms reach their peak, creating beautiful scenery contrasting rocky formations with cherry blossoms.
From late April to May, fresh green leaves sprout, and the entire temple grounds are enveloped in an atmosphere full of vitality. During this period, pilgrims are relatively few, making it suitable for quiet strolls through the grounds.
Summer (June–August): A Refreshing Space Surrounded by Greenery
In summer, Natadera Temple becomes a refreshing space enveloped in deep green. In June, hydrangeas bloom, offering the distinctive charm of the rainy season.
The shaded areas within Kigan Yusenkyou are cool like natural air conditioning, making you forget the summer heat. Walking through the green-shaded pilgrimage path provides forest bathing effects and allows both physical and mental refreshment.
Autumn (September–November): A Famous Autumn Foliage Spot
The season when Natadera Temple is busiest with tourists is the autumn foliage season. The peak typically comes in early to mid-November, with the entire temple grounds turning red and yellow in spectacular fashion.
Particularly impressive is the foliage around Kigan Yusenkyou, where the white rock faces and red leaves create a painting-like beauty. The autumn foliage with the three-tiered pagoda as background is a popular photography spot, attracting many photography enthusiasts.
During the foliage season, special viewings and illuminations may be held, allowing visitors to experience an unusual, fantastical Natadera Temple. Crowds are expected during this period, so visiting in early morning or on weekdays is recommended.
Winter (December–February): A World of Ink Wash Painting
In winter, Natadera Temple spreads out like an ink wash painting, a silent world covered in snow. The landscape created by white snow, black rock faces, and the crimson color of structures presents a completely different character from other seasons.
With snow making the pilgrimage paths slippery, care is necessary. However, in the quiet temple grounds with few people, one can feel deeper spirituality. On New Year’s Day, the temple is crowded with people making New Year’s visits, with many local residents coming to pray for the new year.
Viewing Information and Basic Information
Viewing Hours and Admission Fee
Operating Hours
- Regular period: 9:15–16:00 (final admission 15:45)
- May vary depending on season and special viewing periods
Closure
- Open year-round (however, may not be available for viewing during bad weather or events)
General Admission
- Middle school students and above: 600 yen
- Elementary school students: 300 yen
- Below elementary school age: Free
- Group discounts available (30 or more people)
Special Viewing
- Special viewings may be held during foliage season, allowing viewing at times and places normally unavailable
- Advance check of the official site is recommended for details on special viewings
Location and Contact Information
Address
Natadera-cho Yu122, Komatsushi, Ishikawa Prefecture
Phone Number
0761-65-2111
Official Website
Access Methods
By Train and Bus
- Approximately 30 minutes by Kaga Onsen Bus “Yama-mawari Line” from JR Hokuriku Main Line “Kaga Onsen Station,” get off at “Natadera” bus stop
- Approximately 15 minutes by Komatsushi Bus from JR Hokuriku Main Line “Awazu Station,” get off at “Natadera” bus stop
- Approximately 20 minutes by taxi from Kaga Onsen Station
By Car
- Approximately 15 minutes from “Katayamazu IC” on the Hokuriku Expressway
- Approximately 20 minutes from “Kaga IC” on the Hokuriku Expressway
- Approximately 50 minutes from Kanazawa city center
Parking
- Free parking available (approximately 200 regular vehicles)
- Large bus parking available
- Congestion expected during busy seasons like foliage season
Barrier-Free Information
The temple grounds of Natadera are undulating terrain with limitations on wheelchair movement. Reaching the main hall and Kigan Yusenkyou requires climbing stone steps, making it difficult to navigate all areas barrier-free.
However, some pilgrimage paths from the parking lot to the reception desk and certain areas are relatively flat and wheelchair-accessible. Details are best confirmed in advance by contacting the temple office.
Experience Programs and Events
Sutra Copying Experience
Natadera Temple offers sutra copying experiences to calm the mind and touch Buddhist teachings. Sutra copying involves copying the Heart Sutra, a form of ascetic practice symbolizing spiritual concentration and prayers for the fulfillment of wishes.
The sutra copying experience requires advance reservation and takes approximately one hour. Beginners receive careful instruction, so those without calligraphy experience can participate with confidence.
Homa Prayer Ritual
Homa prayers are regularly performed in the homa hall. Wishes are written on homa sticks and offered; monks recite sutras while burning the sticks, praying for the fulfillment of wishes.
In addition to individual homa stick offerings, prayers for companies and organizations are also accepted. Details should be confirmed by contacting the temple office.
Annual Events
Natadera Temple holds various Buddhist events throughout the year.
- New Year’s Visit (January 1–3): Pilgrims gather to pray for new year happiness
- Setsubun Festival (around February 3): Events such as bean scattering are held
- Flower Festival (April 8): Celebrating the birth of Shakyamuni Buddha
- Obon (August): Memorial services for ancestors
- Autumn Grand Festival (November): Special prayers and events may be held in conjunction with the foliage season
- New Year’s Bell (December 31): General pilgrims can ring the bell
Surrounding Tourist Spots and Model Courses
Many tourist spots are scattered throughout the Komatsushi area where Natadera Temple is located.
Kaga Onsen District
Within 15-20 minutes by car from Natadera Temple are the hot spring areas of Yamashiro Onsen, Yamanaka Onsen, and Katayamazu Onsen, comprising the Kaga Onsen district. Travel plans combining Natadera Temple pilgrimage with hot springs are popular.
Particularly, Yamanaka Onsen is known for being where Matsuo Bashō stayed for an extended period and is worth visiting together with Natadera Temple as a site connected to “The Narrow Road to the Deep North.”
Awazu Onsen
The closest hot spring to Natadera Temple is Awazu Onsen. Known as the oldest hot spring in Hokuriku with a history of 1,300 years of opening, it retains a small but charming hot spring town. Located approximately 10 minutes by car from Natadera Temple, it is ideal for a bath stop after temple viewing.
Aviation Plaza (Ishikawa Prefectural Aviation Museum)
Adjacent to Komatsu Airport, this aviation museum is approximately 20 minutes by car from Natadera Temple. With exhibits of actual aircraft and flight simulators, it offers various aviation-related displays and is recommended for families.
Japan Automobile Museum
Located approximately 15 minutes by car from Natadera Temple, this is one of Japan’s largest automobile museums. Approximately 500 automobiles are displayed, making it a must-see spot for automobile enthusiasts.
Recommended Model Courses
One-Day Course
- Morning: Natadera Temple pilgrimage (approximately 1.5–2 hours)
- Lunch: Local cuisine in Komatsushi or Awazu Onsen
- Afternoon: Day-bath in Awazu Onsen
- Return: Stop at Japan Automobile Museum or Aviation Plaza
Two-Day Course
Day 1:
- Morning: Kanazawa sightseeing (Kenroku-en, Kanazawa Castle, etc.)
- Afternoon: Natadera Temple pilgrimage
- Evening: Stay at Yamashiro Onsen or Yamanaka Onsen
Day 2:
- Morning: Hot spring town stroll
- Afternoon: Kutani ware kiln viewing or Japan Automobile Museum
- Return: Depart from Komatsu Airport
Etiquette and Manners for Visiting Natadera Temple
Clothing and Belongings
With the undulating terrain and many stone steps at Natadera Temple, comfortable walking shoes and flexible clothing are recommended. Particularly for the womb passage experience through Kigan Yusenkyou, be aware that some areas have low ceilings.
Seasonally appropriate clothing is also important. In summer, hat and parasol protection from strong sunlight; in winter, warm clothing and non-slip shoes for potential snow are necessary.
Photography
Photography is generally permitted at Natadera Temple, but certain areas and interior spaces may be photography-restricted. Follow signage and be considerate of other pilgrims.
The use of tripods and commercial photography requires advance permission in some cases. Confirm details with the temple office.
Pilgrimage Manners
Natadera Temple is an active religious facility. Please observe the following basic manners.
- Bow before entering through the mountain gate
- Avoid loud conversation
- Walk on designated pilgrimage paths
- Do not touch or damage structures or nature
- Take away all trash
- Smoking only in designated areas
- Pets require prior confirmation
Cultural Value and Modern Significance of Natadera Temple
Michelin Green Guide Recognition
Natadera Temple earned one star in the Michelin Green Guide Japan. This indicates recognition as a place of “interest,” proof that its value is acknowledged internationally.
Particularly valued are the scenic beauty of Kigan Yusenkyou and the buildings from the early Edo period, making it a unique space where Japanese religious culture and nature merge, popular with foreign tourists as well.
Hakusan Faith and Natural Wisdom Forest
Natadera Temple advocates for “Hakusan Faith Natural Wisdom Forest.” Hakusan faith is Japan’s unique form of religion where the sacred Mount Hakusan is revered, merging mountain worship with Buddhism.
“Natural Wisdom” expresses the Shingon Buddhist idea of discovering Buddha’s wisdom in nature. The grounds of Natadera Temple itself serve as a place where nature and human creation, faith and beauty are one, providing spiritual comfort and new insights to modern visitors.
A Sacred Site of Regeneration and Rebirth
The core experience of Natadera Temple, the “womb passage,” is a ritual of “regeneration” involving conception in the womb and rebirth. In modern stress-filled society, many pilgrims seek this experience as an opportunity to reflect on themselves and reset their minds.
The experience of passing through the dark cave of Kigan Yusenkyou and emerging into bright light symbolizes “rebirth,” offering a valuable opportunity to tangibly experience regeneration.
Conclusion
Natadera Temple is a representative temple of Ishikawa Prefecture with over 1,300 years of history. From its founding by Taichō Daishi through its renaming by Emperor Enzan, the turmoil of the Sengoku period, and restoration by Maeda Toshitsune in the Edo period—a history full of drama—it has been carefully preserved to this day as a site of faith and cultural treasure.
The mysterious landscape of Kigan Yusenkyou, seven important cultural properties, natural beauty changing with each season, and the womb passage experience through which one can experience “regeneration”—Natadera Temple contains a unique appeal found nowhere else.
When visiting Ishikawa Prefecture, be sure to visit Natadera Temple and experience the special space woven together by history, nature, and faith. An opportunity to refresh both body and mind and be reborn anew awaits you here.
