A tranquil sanctuary atop a quiet mountain, Kurikara Fudo-ji Temple Main Hall offers a unique fusion of nature and history in Tsubata Town, Ishikawa Prefecture. From the Five-story Pagoda and the main hall, visitors can enjoy serene views, while spring brings cherry blossoms and decorative flower basins that add vibrant color. This sacred site, revered for centuries, provides a calming retreat amid the beauty of each season.
This article introduces the highlights of Kurikara Fudo-ji Temple Main Hall, its goshuin (temple stamps), and seasonal charm in a way that is easy to follow for first-time visitors to Japan and solo travelers. It also covers access, estimated visit times, and nearby spots, so you can plan your trip with confidence.
Why not set out on a journey to this mountain temple, wrapped in stillness and scenic beauty? It will surely leave you with lasting memories.
Contents
Kurikara Fudo-ji Main Hall｜First-time Access Guide
Check the latest weather forecast before your visit: [weathernews ]
By Train
From Kanazawa Station
Take the IR Ishikawa Railway Line to Tsubata Station (about 15 minutes)
From Tsubata Station, take the Kaetsunou Bus bound for “Kurikara” and get off at “Kurikara Station-mae” (about 25 minutes)
Walk about 15 minutes from “Kurikara Station-mae” to reach the Main Hall
Total travel time: about 1 hour
From Toyama Station
Take the Ainokaze Toyama Railway Line to “Kurikara Station-mae” (about 45 minutes)
Walk about 15 minutes from “Kurikara Station” to reach the Main Hall
Total travel time: about 1 hour
One Point Advice
Visitor Info｜Hours, Admission & Access
urikara Fudo-ji Main Hall｜Top Sights & Half-Day Plan
Five-story Pagoda｜Elegant Mountaintop Silhouette
Standing within the temple grounds, the Five-story Pagoda’s vermilion pillars and white walls harmonize beautifully with the blue sky and seasonal scenery, captivating all who see it. Although the interior is not open to the public, the full view from a nearby path is impressive, with the mountains stretching out behind it. In spring and autumn, the combination of cherry blossoms or fall foliage at Kurikara Fudo-ji Main Hall makes it especially popular, inviting repeat visits in different seasons.
Time required: 15–20 minutes
Admission: Free
Flower Basins & Seasonal Beauty｜Vivid Seasonal Colors
At the chozuya (purification basin) in front of the main hall, flowers are floated on the water during spring and special events. Their colors reflect on the water’s surface, offering a peaceful moment before worship. The temple grounds are home to seasonal plants, and during the yaezakura (double-flowered cherry blossom) season, the path is wrapped in pink petals. Each season at Kurikara Fudo-ji Main Hall reveals a new charm, making a stroll with a camera highly recommended.
Time required: 10–15 minutes
Admission: Free
Ho-o-den Hall｜Garden Beauty & Cultural Charm
Just a few minutes by car from the Main Hall, Ho-o-den serves as a branch of Fudo-ji Temple, blending a traditional Japanese garden with elegant architecture. The pond-centered strolling garden allows visitors to enjoy seasonal changes reflected in the water. Inside, you can receive goshuin stamps or relax at the teahouse, making it an ideal spot for a break after visiting the Main Hall. Visiting both the Main Hall and Ho-o-den together offers a deeper appreciation of the temple’s charm.
Time required: 20–30 minutes
Admission: Free
Afternoon & Next-day Trips｜Kurikara Fudo-ji Main Hall
Kurikara Battlefield Site｜Hilltop with Samurai History (On Foot)
About a 20-minute walk from the Main Hall lies the Kurikara Battlefield Site , known as the site of fierce clashes during the Genpei War. Informational boards explain the battles and tactics of the time. The hilltop offers panoramic views of Tsubata Town and the surrounding mountains near Kurikara Fudo-ji Main Hall, making it appealing both to history enthusiasts and those seeking peaceful scenery.
Hahakoi Kaido｜Thousand Cherry Trees
This picturesque route, lined with a thousand cherry trees , offers an unforgettable seasonal drive or stroll beneath graceful pink canopies. Stretching for kilometers, the road becomes a floral tunnel, with views of gentle hills and rural scenery unfolding along the way. It’s a perfect blend of nature and serenity, making it a must-see destination during cherry blossom season.
Kanazawa City Sightseeing｜Culture & Gourmet (Next Day)
About 25 minutes from Kurikara Station on the IR Ishikawa Railway Line, Kanazawa Station is an ideal base for next-day sightseeing. Highlights of Kanazawa include Kenrokuen Garden , Kanazawa Castle Park, and Higashi Chaya District, all easily accessible from Kurikara Fudo-ji Main Hall. At Omicho Market, you can taste Kaga vegetables and fresh seafood. Kanazawa offers a concentrated mix of history, culture, and cuisine, a vivid contrast to the tranquility of Kurikara Fudo-ji Temple.
Kurikara Fudo-ji Main Hall｜Travel Q&A
Where is the best spot to view the Five-story Pagoda?
A path slightly away from the Main Hall offers a clear view of the entire pagoda.
Can I see the difference between cherry blossoms and double-flowered cherry blossoms?
In mid-April, Somei Yoshino trees bloom, followed by double-flowered cherry blossoms in late April, allowing you to enjoy their differences in color and petals.
What is the appeal of visiting in autumn?
The grounds and paths are adorned with vivid autumn leaves, creating a striking contrast with the Five-story Pagoda.
When can I see the flower basins?
They are often arranged during spring and on special occasions, adding bright seasonal colors.
Are there places for a light meal near the Main Hall?
Teahouses and eateries near Ho-o-den offer sweets and light meals.
Kurikara Fudo-ji Main Hall｜Summary & Next Steps
Kurikara Fudo-ji Temple Main Hall is a peaceful place that welcomes visitors with its Five-story Pagoda , flower basins, and seasonal blooms. The view from the mountaintop, paired with fresh air, offers a tranquil escape from daily life.
Though access can be a bit inconvenient, the quiet atmosphere and scenery provide a special experience. With seasonal attractions like cherry blossoms, autumn leaves, and goshuin stamp collecting, it’s a place worth visiting again and again.
Next, why not extend your trip to the historic Kurikara Battlefield or Ho-o-den Hall?
