Question 1

What is the nearest station, and how do I get there?

Accepted Answer

From Kagaonsen Station, take the Kaga loop bus (Canbus mountain route) and alight right by the temple at the Natadera stop. It is also about 15 minutes by taxi from Awazu Station or Kagaonsen Station. By car it is about 30 minutes from Komatsu IC or Kaga IC on the Hokuriku Expressway, or about 12.5 km from Katayamazu IC.

Question 2

Can I bring a pet?

Accepted Answer

We ask that pets are not brought into the temple. This is stated on the official website, so please note it before you visit.

Question 3

Can I try sutra copying?

Accepted Answer

Yes, sutra copying is available at 3,000 yen. Please see the official website or call 0761-65-2111 for details and how to apply.

Question 4

Is there a Kigan Yusenkyo experience programme?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Natadera runs a programme in which you wear a white oizuru robe and climb the rock formation with a guide. It runs on weekdays only from 1 April to 30 September (not at weekends, on public holidays or in bad weather) and costs 2,000 yen including the special viewing charge. Up to 10 people take part each day and advance booking is required. The view down over the grounds from the lookout is magnificent.

Question 5

Can I see the special viewing area (the Shoin and garden) at present?

Accepted Answer

The special viewing area is currently closed until the end of March 2026 for garden maintenance. Ordinary visiting continues all year, and the Kigan Yusenkyo and the temple buildings can be seen. Please check the official website for the latest information.

Question 6

How long does a visit take?

Accepted Answer

An ordinary visit takes about an hour. The Kigan Yusenkyo programme (weekdays only) takes further time. In the autumn leaf and cherry blossom seasons many visitors take their time, allowing about 1.5 to 2 hours.

Question 7

Are any buildings Important Cultural Properties?

Accepted Answer

Yes, several are national Important Cultural Properties, including the Gomado, the main hall, the three-storey pagoda, the Shoin and the bell tower. They were rebuilt in the early Edo period by Maeda Toshitsune, lord of the Kaga domain, and the Shoin is distinctive for its samurai-style shoin architecture.

Question 8

What are Natadera's visiting hours and charges?

Accepted Answer

Visiting hours are 9:15-16:00. Admission is 1,000 yen for junior high school age and above, 300 yen for elementary school children and free for younger children. Holders of a disability certificate pay 500 yen (and one companion the same). Groups of 30 or more pay 900 yen and 200 yen.

Question 9

What is the Kigan Yusenkyo?

Accepted Answer

It is the great rock formation in the grounds, distinctive for the many caves cut into it. Matsuo Basho visited and wrote a haiku here, and it is a designated national Place of Scenic Beauty as part of the landscape of The Narrow Road to the Deep North. The cave inside the main hall is also known as a site for the tainai-kuguri rebirth ritual.

Question 10

Is it famous for autumn leaves, and when are they at their best?

Accepted Answer

Natadera is known as one of the finest autumn leaf sites in the Hokuriku region, where the rock walls and the leaves make a striking combination. They are usually at their best from late October to early November. The temple also holds one Michelin star.

Question 11

Is there parking?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there is free parking for about 250 cars and 40 coaches.

Question 12

Is there parking?

Accepted Answer

Parking is available. Please check the official information for details.

Question 13

How do I get there?

Accepted Answer

From Kagaonsen Station, take the Kaga loop bus (Canbus mountain route) and alight right by the temple at the Natadera stop. By car, about 30 minutes from Komatsu IC or Kaga IC on the Hokuriku Expressway, or about 12.5 km from Katayamazu IC.

Question 14

When is it closed?

Accepted Answer

Open every day (for visiting the grounds).

Question 15

What are the opening hours?

Accepted Answer

9:15-16:00 (when the grounds close).

Question 16

What is the address?

Accepted Answer

Yu 122 Natadera Town, Komatsu City, Ishikawa Prefecture

Question 17

How much is admission?

Accepted Answer

Junior high school age and above 1,000 yen, elementary school children 300 yen, younger children free. Holders of a disability certificate pay 500 yen on showing it (and one companion the same). Groups of 30 or more: 900 yen and 200 yen. Special viewing is 200 yen on top of ordinary admission (note that the special viewing area is closed until the end of March 2026 for garden maintenance).

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