Myoryuji Temple Tourism

Myoryuji Temple, commonly known as the Ninja Temple, is a historic site in Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan. Built during the Edo period, it was originally affiliated with the nearby Kanazawa Castle. The temple is renowned for its complex design, concealed chambers, and multiple deceptive defences, ostensibly constructed to protect its occupants from samurai attacks. Despite its nickname, the temple has no historical connection to actual ninjas. Myoryuji Temple features a four-story building which, due to clever design and construction, appears like a modest two-story structure from the outside. Inside, visitors can marvel at the maze-like layout that includes hidden tunnels, secret rooms, trap doors, and escape routes. Moreover, the temple showcases intricately designed contraptions and trick mechanisms that enhance its defensive capabilities. Guided tours are available but often require reservations in advance due to the temple's popularity. The architectural ingenuity exhibited in Myoryuji Temple exemplifies the Japanese skills in fortification and craftsmanship during an era characterized by feuding warlords and the necessity for protection and secrecy.