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HOME > Japan’s Local Treasures > In the Snowy Mountains: Natadera Temple
Hidden within the snowy mountains, the 1,300-year-old Natadera Temple
Komatsu City, Ishikawa Prefecture
Enveloped by the untouched woodlands and mountains of Komatsu City in Ishikawa is the ancient Natadera Temple, established in the year 717 as a sanctuary for nature worship.
Built in harmony with the rocky surroundings, one iconic sight within the temple is a vast rockwall that has been carved by centuries of rain and wind into Mother Nature’s masterpiece. While especially well-known as an autumn sightseeing spot, when the terrain is covered in fiery foliage, the heavy snowfall and craggy formations of this mountain temple also make for some dramatic snowscapes.
With patches of red paint and green cedar peeking out from amidst the white, it is this quiet city’s very own Christmas wonderland. It is truly a scenic beauty deserving of its star in the Michelin Green Guide. As a 1,300-year-old temple, it is also where you can immerse yourself in history and tradition.
A particularly unique experience is the ritual of rebirth at the cave adjoining the temple’s main hall. Since caves are believed to represent a mother’s womb, walking through them is seen as a cycle of rebirth—the perfect way to start the year anew. Why not visit this winter to refresh yourself with the rich nature and culture of Komatsu City?
How to get there
Haneda Airport to Komatsu Airport by plane: 1 hour. From Tokyo Station to Komatsu Station: 2 hours 40 minutes via Hokuriku Shinkansen. From Shin-Osaka to Komatsu Station via JR limited express train: 2 hours 15 minutes. From Nagoya to Komatsu Station: approx. 2 hours via JR limited express train and Shinkansen bullet train. The temple is about 20 minutes from Komatsu Airport and Komatsu Station by car.
Yu 122, Nata-machi, Komatsu-shi, Ishikawa-ken
