Inaba Betsuin Zuisen-ji Temple

Overview

Zuisen-ji Temple is a Jodo Shinshu Otani-ha Buddhist temple located in Inaba, Nanto City, Toyama Prefecture, and is a branch temple of the Otani-ha sect. Established in 1390 by Kakunyo, the fifth head priest of Hongan-ji Temple, during the Sengoku period it served as a stronghold for the Echizen Ikko Ikki (a religious peasant uprising). The temple complex is surrounded by sturdy stone walls, remnants of this turbulent past. Beyond its historical significance, Zuisen-ji is renowned for the exquisite wood carvings that adorn the entire temple. Inaba wood carving, a thriving traditional craft, developed thanks to the skills of carpenters dispatched from Kyoto during the construction of Zuisen-ji. They passed their techniques on to local people, and to this day, approximately 200 carvers reside in Inaba, primarily along Hachinichi-cho Street, Zuisen-ji's approach, continuing this legacy. The highlight of Zuisen-ji is undoubtedly its buildings decorated with Inaba wood carvings. The Taishi-do (Prince Shotoku Hall) is particularly famous as a masterpiece of Inaba carving. Its intricate design is achieved using 200 chisels on a single piece of wood. The 'tebami' (hand-clasped) beams supporting the roof are a breathtaking example of precise craftsmanship, carved from a single piece of wood. Hachinichi-cho Street, located in front of Zuisen-ji Temple, is lined with carvers' workshops, sake breweries, and souvenir shops. The street's charming atmosphere is created by traditional townhouses with lattice doors and cobblestone streets. While strolling, you might notice many charming wood-carved cats adorning eaves and windowsills, adding delightful touches to your visit. Zuisen-ji Temple and Hachinichi-cho Street offer a variety of dining options, cafes, and souvenir shops, making it a place you can enjoy all day long. Immerse yourself in the history and culture of Inaba wood carving and experience the allure of this traditional craft firsthand.