Myōryū-ji, Buddhist temple in Teramachi district, Kanazawa, Japan
Description
Myōryū-ji is a temple in the Teramachi district with 23 rooms connected through 29 staircases across 4 floors and 7 levels. The exterior appears low with only 2 stories, while the interior contains these additional hidden levels and chambers.
History
Maeda Toshitsune, the third lord of Kaga Domain, founded this temple in 1643 as a fortified structure near Kanazawa Castle. Its construction was a strategic decision to defend the region during the early Edo period.
Culture
The temple displays defensive features like trap doors and hidden passages that reflect its original role as a fortified structure. Visitors can still discover today the thoughtful arrangement of these security elements throughout the winding rooms.
Practical
Visitors must book guided 40-minute tours in advance, and photography is not permitted inside. Plan extra time for registration, and wear comfortable shoes since navigating the many staircases can be physically demanding.
Did you know?
A 25-meter deep well carved from a single Tomuro stone reportedly contains a secret tunnel to Kanazawa Castle. This underground passage remains closed to the public for safety reasons, yet adds to the site's mysterious reputation.
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