Zuisenji Temple in Inami is a historically significant Buddhist temple, It is renowned for being the birthplace of the famous Inami woodcarving tradition. The temple buildings themselves, including the large main gate, are adorned with a vast collection of intricate and powerful woodcarvings, making it a living museum of this local craft.
A Short History
Inami Betsuin Zuisenji Temple was originally founded in 1390 by the Buddhist priest Shakunyo. Over its long history, the temple has been destroyed by fire multiple times, with its most recent major reconstruction occurring in the late 19th century. To rebuild the temple after a fire in the 18th century, a master carver from Kyoto was brought in to assist, teaching local carpenters his techniques. This event is considered the origin of the renowned Inami woodcarving tradition that is still practiced today.
Interesting Sites Around the Town
Inami is famous as a "town of carvers," and you can stroll down Yokamachi Street to hear the sound of chisels at work from over a hundred workshops. The entire town is a showcase of this craft, with intricate carvings adorning everything from shop signs to telephone booths. A fun activity is to find the dozens of small, carved wooden cats hidden throughout the town, adding a playful treasure hunt to your visit. If you want to try wood carving for yourself, that is a possibility if you reserved in advance! The town also has a sake brewery, Wakakoma, where you can sample local sake.
Visiting Zuisenji Temple
Getting to Zuisenji Temple from Kanazawa and Toyama can be both easy and difficult. There are 6 buses a day going in both directions from Kanazawa. Take the Nanto-Kanazawa Line bus from the west exit of Kanazawa Station, which takes about 75 minutes. The temple is a short walk from the "Inami Kotsu Hiroba" bus stop. It can be difficult to reach from Toyama because there are no direct regular buses.
It can be a bit difficult to figure everything and combine it with other interesting spots so joining a tour is sometimes the best option! Walk around Inami and the woodcarving town, try paper making in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Gokayama and immerse yourself in the traditional townscapes of the famous Shirakawago. Check it out below!
Best Selling
1 Day Tour from Kanazawa: Shirakawa-go, Gokayama and Wood Carving Village
- Spots:
- KanazawaShirakawago
- Pick-up:
- Kanazawa
- Drop-off:
- TakayamaKanazawa
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Zuisenji Temple most famous for?
Zuisenji Temple is most famous as the birthplace of the renowned Inami woodcarving tradition, with the temple's magnificent buildings serving as a beautiful showcase of this craft.
When is the best time to visit Zuisenji Temple?
The best time to visit Zuisenji Temple is during the spring when the temple grounds are beautiful with cherry and wisteria blossoms, or in autumn for the vibrant foliage. While the intricate carvings can be appreciated year-round, summer brings hot and humid temperatures, often with clear skies. Winter is also a special time, with the temple and surrounding town often blanketed in snow, creating a picturesque landscape.
Does Zuisenji Temple have a goshuin/temple stamp?
Yes, Zuisenji Temple does offer a goshuin, but most times it is pre-prepared. This means that the monk does the writing ahead of time on sheet of paper that you then glue into your book.
How do I get to Zuisenji Temple?
From major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, Kanazawa or Toyama, take the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Kanazawa Station. Take the Kaetsuno bus from the west exit of Kanazawa Station and get off at the Inami Kotsu Hiroba stop, from which the temple is a short walk.
How long should I plan to be at Zuisenji Temple for?
A typical visit to Zuisenji Temple, including time to admire the intricate carvings and stroll the grounds, should last about 30 to 60 minutes.
