Solo Cultural Exploration in Kanazawa

Seeking Serenity: Natadera Temple and Mount Utatsu

Today was a day dedicated to finding a bit of peace outside the city center, a day for reflection and appreciation of nature’s beauty. Leaving behind the familiar streets of Kanazawa, I ventured into the surrounding landscapes, eager to explore ancient temples and climb to panoramic viewpoints. It was a day that reminded me why I love traveling solo – the freedom to follow my whims and discover hidden gems at my own pace.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Curio Espresso and Vintage Design Café. It seems I’ve made this place my go-to for a morning caffeine fix and a bite to eat. The blend of Seattle coffee culture with Japanese vintage charm is just irresistible. I opted for their English muffin breakfast sandwich and a White Velvet coffee, fueling up for the day’s adventures. The owners, Sol and Yuko, are always friendly, and it’s a great spot to start the day.


Experience the charm of Curio Espresso and Vintage Design Café in Kanazawa – where delicious brunch meets vintage vibes.

With a full stomach and a spring in my step, I set off to Natadera Temple. The journey itself was an experience, watching the cityscape gradually give way to rural scenery. The crisp December air hinted at the winter to come, a stark contrast to the milder days I had enjoyed earlier in my trip.

Arriving at Natadera Temple, I was immediately struck by the dramatic cliffs towering over the temple grounds. The temple has a history stretching back over 2,000 years, with the cliffs and caves shaped by volcanic eruptions and ocean currents. It's a place where nature and spirituality intertwine seamlessly. The temple was founded in 717 by a monk seeking deities on Mount Hakusan, a mountain revered as one of Japan's three holiest peaks.


Experience the serene beauty and spiritual essence of Natadera Temple, a historic Buddhist sanctuary in Ishikawa, Japan.

I wandered through the spacious grounds, exploring the Kondo Hall, which houses a large statue of Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy. The treasure house next door was also fascinating, filled with artifacts that spoke of the temple’s long history. I was particularly drawn to the rocky cliffside with its hand-carved meditation caves, imagining the monks who had sought enlightenment in these very spaces. Sadly, the signs indicated that climbing the cliffside was prohibited for preservation reasons.

In the back of the grounds, I found the main shrine built into a large cave, a testament to the harmony between nature and human life that the temple embodies. A three-storied pagoda and an observation deck offered panoramic views of the entire temple complex. As I walked along the wooded paths, I came across a bell tower and several auxiliary buildings, each with its own unique charm.

The autumn wind is whiter than the white cliffs of the stony mountain.

I learned that Natadera Temple is considered a sacred place to pray to deities since the Jomon and Yayoi eras. The caves at Natadera were likened to wombs, places of death, purification, and rebirth. It’s believed that by passing through these caves, spirits are cleansed and reborn. Knowing this added a layer of depth to my experience, a sense of connection to the countless pilgrims who had walked this path before me. While I was there, I noticed preparations for the “NAKED Yoru Sanpo” event, an immersive night walk that would transform the temple grounds into a luminous world of light and sound. It sounded like a magical experience, but unfortunately, it wasn't scheduled during my visit.

Leaving Natadera, I felt a sense of peace and rejuvenation. It was time for the next adventure: Mount Utatsu. After a short bus ride, I arrived at the foot of the mountain, ready for a hike. Mount Utatsu, though not towering at only 141 meters, promised stunning panoramic views of Kanazawa. The air was crisp and invigorating, perfect for a leisurely climb.


Experience the stunning natural beauty and panoramic views of Mount Utatsu in Kanazawa, a perfect escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

The path up Mount Utatsu was well-marked and easy to follow. As I ascended, I was surrounded by lush greenery, a welcome escape from the urban landscape. I opted for the trails rather than the roadway, a decision I was glad I made as they were much shorter and offered more scenic spots.

I passed the Tenjin-bashi Bridge and took the Kiko-zaka slope to the Iris Garden. Though the irises and hydrangeas wouldn’t be in bloom until June or July, the garden still had a quiet charm. I continued past the three old shrines, each with its own unique history and significance.

Finally, I reached the scenic overlook at the top of Mount Utatsu. The view was breathtaking. From here, I could see the entire city of Kanazawa spread out before me, a tapestry of rooftops and bustling streets. In the distance, the Sea of Japan shimmered under the afternoon sun. I took a moment to simply soak it all in, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience this beautiful place.

After descending Mount Utatsu, my stomach started to rumble. It was time for a late lunch at Turban Curry Main Store. I had heard so much about Kanazawa curry, and I was eager to try it for myself.


Discover authentic Japanese curry at Turban Curry Main Store in Kanazawa - where flavor meets tradition in every dish.

Turban Curry is known for its thick, dark, spiced curry roux served on a stainless steel plate with a broken spoon or fork. I ordered the L-set Curry, which came with a pork cutlet, hamburger steak, and sausage. The curry was rich and flavorful, with a pronounced spice that was incredibly satisfying. The pork cutlet was crispy and the hamburger steak was juicy, making for a truly delicious meal. The portions were generous, and I left feeling completely full.

With my appetite sated, I decided to explore a different side of Kanazawa’s nightlife. I ventured to Bar of Shrine HOLY, a unique establishment that blends the tranquility of a shrine with the vibrant culture of Japanese whiskey. Stepping through the torii gate, I found myself in a stylish and relaxed environment adorned with shrine memorabilia.


Discover the enchanting Bar of Shrine HOLY, where traditional Shinto vibes meet exquisite cocktails in the heart of Kanazawa.

The owner, Aki-san, was incredibly friendly and knowledgeable about whiskey and craft gin. He created an inviting atmosphere, perfect for both locals and travelers. I sampled a few different Japanese whiskeys, each with its own distinct character and flavor. The bar had a cozy, intimate feel, and I enjoyed chatting with Aki-san and the other patrons. It was a great way to unwind after a day of exploring.

For dinner, I headed to Daimyo Chaya, a traditional Japanese restaurant known for its dishes from the Sea of Japan region. The restaurant is known for presenting recipes from the Edo period that were served to Daimyo, and even featured Geisha. Given that it's crab season, I decided to indulge in the KANO crab KAISEKI, a full course of KANO crab.


Experience exquisite crab dishes and authentic kaiseki cuisine at Daimyo Chaya in Kanazawa – a true culinary delight!

The meal was a true crab feast, featuring sashimi, small hotpot, shabu-shabu, charcoal grilled crab, crab miso, tempura, boiled crab, and porridge. Each dish was exquisitely prepared and presented, showcasing the delicate flavors of the crab. The ambiance of the restaurant was wonderful, with tatami-style seating and a serene atmosphere. It was a bit pricey, but definitely worth it for a special culinary experience.

As I reflect on today’s adventures, I can’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to explore this beautiful corner of Japan. Tomorrow, I am planning to delve deeper into Kanazawa's cultural heart with a Kanazawa Tour and a visit to the Gyokusen-en Nishida Family Garden. But for now, I’ll rest up and dream of temples, mountain views, and crab feasts.

“To travel is to discover that everyone is wrong about other countries.” – Aldous Huxley