Uncover the secrets of Kanazawa’s most intriguing architectural marvel with our guide to Myōryūji Temple (妙立寺), famously known as the Ninja Temple. Despite its nickname, this Buddhist temple was never actually inhabited by ninjas; instead, it served as a disguised military outpost for the Maeda lords. Built with a labyrinth of hidden stairs, trap doors, secret passages, and escape tunnels, the temple’s ingenious design was meant to thwart intruders and protect the local feudal lords. Located in the historic Teramachi district, Myoryuji is a masterpiece of Edo-period engineering that continues to fascinate visitors today. Whether you are a fan of feudal history or clever craftsmanship, discover everything you need to know about booking a tour to explore the 23 rooms and 29 staircases, and why this “ninja” stronghold is a top-rated highlight of any Kanazawa itinerary.
About Myōryūji Temple
Minutes walk away from the Nishi Chaya District is the Myoryuji Temple. This temple was relocated from its original position near Kanazawa Castle to its current location in 1643 by the third lord of the Kaga Domain. Whilst it looks like just any other temple in Japan, it is actually a fort for Kanazawa.
At the time, the Tokugawa Shogunate and the Kaga Domain were in a state of tension. The relocation of the temple was part of the preparation for an attack. Although it seems like a two-storied building when you stand in front of it, it actually has seven floors with 23 rooms and 29 sets of staircases!
The temple is full of gimmicks designed to deceive the enemy. There is a pit underneath the donation box, hidden stairs if you remove the floorboard, a hidden door behind the hanging scroll, and even a secret path leading to Kanazawa Castle in the well!
Has it started sounding like this is actually a ninja base? While the temple has nothing to do with ninjas, its design, with its trickery and hidden traps, earned it the nickname Ninja Temple (´▽｀*).
If you pay attention to the roof of the main worship hall, you will notice something unique to Myōryūji Temple. It is where this castle fort’s watchtower is located. You will also find the tea room’s ceiling extremely low. This is to prevent someone from swinging around swords and spears inside.
A Booking Is Essential to Explore Myoryuji Temple
With its maze-like structures, visitors aren’t allowed to stroll freely inside the buildings because there is a high chance that they won’t be able to come out by themselves. To explore this awesome temple, booking a guided tour is essential.
- Myoryuji currently accepts reservations only by phone. As it is quite popular, call them at +81-076-241-0888 between 8:30 am and 5 pm as soon as possible.
- Reservations open 1 month in advance.
- The cost is
- 1,200 yen for adults
- 800 yen for elementary school students
- Depending on the day, the tour will be scheduled every hour or every 30 minutes between 9 am to 4:30 pm.
- Myoryuji Temple tour lasts for approximately 40 minutes.
- Please gather in front of the main hall 10 minutes before your guided tour begins.
If you don’t speak Japanese, kindly ask the staff at your accommodation to do this for you. Note that the tour is conducted only in Japanese, and no translator is allowed because it won’t be private. There have been complaints about not being able to hear the guide’s voice due to past translation issues.
Tips:
☛ If the temple tour isn’t fully booked, you can join the tour on the spot. When you arrive, please proceed directly to the left side of the main hall. You will see a reservation sign and walkie-talkies. Simply contact the staff via walkie-talkie to confirm whether any spots are available on the day.
☛ While the tour is only in Japanese, you will be given an English guidebook that explains all the gimmicks at Myoryuji.
Important:
☛ Photography is prohibited inside Myoryuji Temple. But you can refer to Ishikawa Prefectural Tourism League’s Website for photos of what you will see on the day.
☛ Pre-school children or younger won’t be able to join Myoryuji Temple tour.
How Much Time to Allocate to Myoryuji Temple
If you plan to try your luck and join the tour on the day, or take photos and explore the surrounding area, we recommend allowing about 90 minutes at Myoryuji Temple.
Myoryuji Temple’s Opening Hours and Access Information
- Myoryuji is a 3-minute walk from the bus stop, Hirokōji (広小路).
- The temple is closed on the 1st of January and also on the days when rituals are taking place.
Discover Other Fascinating Attractions in Kanazawa City
Step into a world where samurai legacy and modern artistry collide with our guide to Kanazawa (金沢), Japan’s “Little Kyoto.” Whether you are wandering the perfectly preserved wooden teahouses of the Higashi Chaya geisha district or admiring the circular architecture of the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa offers a deep dive into Edo-period culture without the overwhelming crowds of larger cities.
Refer to our Kanazawa article for more awesome attractions, including where to meet the Geishas!
