ABOUT
About this spot
Natadera in Komatsu City, Ishikawa Prefecture, is a historic Shingon Buddhist temple founded in 717 (the first year of Yoro) by the monk Taicho. It conveys to the present day the spirit of Hakusan worship: "give thanks to nature and return to nature." The vast grounds hold "Kiganyusenkyo," a landscape of strange rocks shaped by wind and rain over long years, and its mystical scenery is designated a National Place of Scenic Beauty. The autumn foliage season is especially stunning, and many worshippers visit for the contrast between the white of the rock surfaces and the vivid red of the maples. The main hall, also called Daihikaku, is built to be set into a huge rock cave. The "Tainai Kuguri" held here treats the cave as a mother's womb, and passing through it offers a special experience of purifying the soul and being reborn. The grounds also have many Important Cultural Properties, including a three-story pagoda and a shoin hall, and it is known as a place where Matsuo Basho composed a poem. It is a power spot where you can spend a rich time walking through the quiet forest and reflecting on history, nature, and yourself. It is ideal for trips with friends and family, and for a solo journey to refresh your heart.
Last updated March 26, 2026