Myoryuji Temple, also famously known as the Ninja Temple, is one of Kanazawa’s most intriguing historical landmarks. Located in the Teramachi district, the temple is renowned not because of ninjas but for its clever defensive architecture, designed to protect the Maeda clan during the Edo period. With its hidden rooms, secret tunnels, trick doors, and complex layout, Myoryuji captivates visitors by offering a glimpse into the strategic mindsets of feudal Japan. Despite its nickname, the temple was never used by actual ninjas, but its stealthy design earned it the nickname due to its mysterious and deceptive structure.
How to Reach Myoryuji Temple, Kanazawa
Reaching Myoryuji Temple is convenient from central Kanazawa:
- By Bus: From Kanazawa Station, take the Kanazawa Loop Bus and get off at “Hirokoji” stop. The temple is about a 5-minute walk from there.
- By Taxi: A taxi ride from Kanazawa Station takes around 10–15 minutes.
- By Foot: Walking from Kenrokuen Garden or Kanazawa Castle takes about 25–30 minutes through scenic and traditional neighborhoods.
Weather Around Myoryuji Temple, Kanazawa
Kanazawa enjoys a humid subtropical climate, with all four seasons influencing how visitors experience the area:
- Spring (March to May): Mild temperatures and blooming cherry blossoms make this a lovely season to visit the temple and surrounding temples in the Teramachi district.
- Summer (June to August): Warm and humid; ideal for indoor activities like temple tours and museum visits.
- Autumn (September to November): Crisp air and vibrant foliage enhance the temple's surrounding ambiance.
- Winter (December to February): Snow is common, giving the temple a serene, peaceful appearance. However, pathways may be slippery, so caution is advised.
Timing and Entry Details
Myoryuji Temple is not open for walk-in exploration. Entry is only possible through guided tours which must be reserved in advance due to the structure’s complexity and historical value.
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM (last tour starts around 4:00 PM)
- Closed On: Wednesdays and during New Year holidays
- Entry Fee: Approximately 1,200 yen per adult, 800 yen for children (subject to slight changes)
- Language: Guided tours are conducted in Japanese, but English pamphlets and translated materials are available
- Reservation: Required in advance; can be made via phone or through tour services
Why Famous for Myoryuji Temple, Kanazawa?
Myoryuji Temple is famous for its deceptive architecture and ingenious structural tricks that served a strategic defense purpose. Built in 1643 by the Maeda lords, the temple acted as a secret military outpost disguised as a place of worship. Its multilayered structure includes:
- Hidden staircases and trapdoors
- False ceilings and secret lookout points
- A maze of interconnected halls
- Rooms that can serve dual purposes for worship or defense
These features made it hard for attackers to navigate or conquer quickly, offering a secure retreat and surveillance post for samurai. Although often called the "Ninja Temple," its real value lies in the architectural genius used to defend its inhabitants discreetly.
History and Architecture
Myoryuji was constructed during the early Edo period under the patronage of the powerful Maeda family who ruled the Kaga Domain. During this time, the Tokugawa Shogunate imposed restrictions on castle construction to prevent rebellion. To get around these rules, the Maeda clan designed Myoryuji Temple with hidden defense features under the guise of religious infrastructure.
The temple's architecture is incredibly sophisticated for its time:
- It has four floors but appears as a two-story building from the outside.
- The interior houses over 20 rooms connected by more than 29 staircases.
- Clever use of construction techniques helped guard against spies and invasions.
Architectural highlights include hidden tunnels (now sealed), trapdoors, confusing stairways, and false ceilings that were used to mislead intruders and aid samurai in ambush tactics or escape.
Things to Do at Myoryuji Temple
- Take a Guided Tour: This is the only way to explore the inside of the temple and learn about its hidden rooms and secret passages.
- Examine Hidden Features: Discover false doors, staircases that lead to dead ends, and clever traps designed to fool intruders.
- Learn Local History: Understand the political tension of the Edo period and how architecture was used for protection.
- Visit Nearby Temples: The surrounding Teramachi area is filled with other beautiful temples and shrines.
- Photography: While photography inside the temple is restricted, the outside structure and neighborhood are perfect for photos.
Interesting Facts about Myoryuji Temple
- The temple is often mistakenly associated with ninjas, but there is no direct evidence of ninja activity here.
- The complex layout includes a “seppuku room” where samurai could perform ritual suicide if cornered, though it was likely never used for this purpose.
- The underground passage rumored to lead to Kanazawa Castle has been sealed off, adding to the temple’s mystique.
- It is one of the few remaining temples in Japan with this level of defensive architecture.
- Despite its defense features, the temple is a fully functioning place of worship and part of the Nichiren Buddhist sect.
Tips for Visiting Myoryuji Temple
- Make a reservation early: Tours fill up quickly, especially during weekends and holidays.
- Understand Japanese basics: While English materials are provided, understanding some basic Japanese enhances the experience.
- Arrive 10-15 minutes before your tour: Late arrivals may miss the tour and won’t be allowed entry.
- Dress comfortably: You’ll be walking through narrow stairs and hidden rooms, so comfortable shoes are essential.
- Combine your visit: Include a trip to Nishi Chaya District or Kenrokuen Garden to enjoy a full day of cultural exploration.
Conclusion
Myoryuji Temple is more than just a historic structure—it is an architectural marvel that offers insight into the secretive and strategic nature of feudal Japan. Often misunderstood due to its nickname, the Ninja Temple showcases how religious buildings were cleverly adapted to serve political and defensive purposes. A visit to this temple is a journey through trapdoors, illusions, and military ingenuity. For anyone exploring Kanazawa, Myoryuji offers a unique, immersive experience that bridges the gap between history, architecture, and storytelling.
