Sojiji Temple, or Sojiji Soin Father Temple, is a Zen temple located on the Noto Peninsula, in Ishikawa Prefecture. Sojiji was historically a very important Zen Temple in Japan, overseeing 16,000 subordinate temples across the country. Sadly large parts of the temple were destroyed during a fire in 1898. Over the years the buildings were …
Kotogahama Beach (Singing Sand)
Towards the northern end of the rugged Noto Kongo Coast you find Kotogahama, a beach of singing sand. The flat, sandy beach stands out, on the otherwise dark and rocky shoreline. Due to the shape of the beach, and lack of large rocks in the water, the waves can roll in nicely, thus creating a …
Wajima Kiriko Art Museum
Wajima Kiriko Art Museum displays a collection of 31 unique Kiriko lanterns. Kiriko lanterns are used during Matsuri to guide portable shrines which are carried around as part of the festival ceremony. In the Noto region the Kiriko lanterns have become so popular, that they can be the main attraction themselves.
Noto Kongo Coast
Noto Kongo Coast (sometimes referred to as Notokongou) is a rugged stretch of coast on the western side of the Noto Peninsula, in Ishikawa Prefecture.
Yoshitsune no Funakakushi & Yase Cliff
Yoshitsune no Funakakushi, literally meaning “Yoshitsunes Boat Hiding” is a long, narrow gorge found on the Noto Kongo Coast of the Noto Peninsula.
Hatago Iwa “Married Rocks”
Hatago Iwa (機具岩), also known as Noto Futami, are a pair of sacred rocks located in the sea a few kilometers north of the famous Ganmon rocks on the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture.
Ganmon “Gate Rock” and Sea Cave
Located with it’s entire west coast facing the Sea of Japan, the Noto peninsula is known as a rough place to live. The rough coastal landscape along the Noto Kongo Coast is a testimony to the harsh conditions. The roughness of this stretch of coast is especially visible at Ganmon Sea Cave (Ganmon Cliffs). Here the …
Hiking Mt. Arashima (Fukui)
Mt. Arashima is listed as on one of the 100 best mountains (Hyakumeizan) in Japan. Located in i a very rural area of Fukui Prefecture it is not one of the most easily accessible mountains for hiking. However that makes it even more special, as you will only meet the odd hiker on the trails. …
Matsumoto Castle
Matsumoto castle is one of Japans most unique and beautiful castles. The castle complex is designated both as national treasures and cultural treasure. Matsumoto Castle together with Himeji Castle and Kumamoto Castle are considered the 3 most beautiful (and famous) castles in the country. It is also one of only 12 surviving original castles in …
Jogasaki Coast Hike
Jogasaki Coast (Jōgasaki Kaigan) is a stunning stretch of coast on the eastern side of the Izu peninsula. The coastline is famous for it’s beautiful cliffs and views and is reachable from Tokyo in just 90 minutes. There are a few attractions and view points along the coast, but most importantly there is a really …