Natadera Temple

Natadera Temple (那谷寺) in Komatsu City (小松市), some 40 kilometers (25 miles) west of Kanazawa, makes a perfect day trip for those looking to see beautiful temple architecture and gardens without the big crowd. The temple is without a doubt the chief reason to visit, while there is a host of attractions including other charming temples, hot springs, nature, and, of course the fun of driving in itself.
Let’s take a roundabout route to Natadera Temple. From Kanazawa, drive south to Tsurugi (鶴来) at the foot of Mt. Hakusan (白山) along Route 157, where the road runs parallel to the Tedori River (手取川), the longest river in the prefecture. The river has a narrow, deep gorge called Tedori Gorge (手取峡谷). Several bridges over the river give brief glimpses down into the stunning gorge, while a few trails lead down the steep rock walls to the water below. Furobashi Bridge (不老橋) and Watagataki Waterfall (綿が滝) are must-visit spots.
Your trip continues on Route 157 through the mountainous area and a reservoir called Tedoriko (手取湖) to a small hot spring village called Shiramine (白峰). Located on the upper stream of the Tedori River, this settlement has been designed as Japan’s Important Preservation Districts for Groups of Historic Buildings. If you have time, stroll down this old mountain village noted for heavy snow in winter.
Get on 261 east that becomes Route 416, and cut south on Route 364 to Eiheiji Temple (永平寺) tucked back in dense forests and mountains in the west of Fukui Prefecture (福井県). After visiting the temple, browse through souvenir shops along the street in front of the temple, and try some buckwheat noodles, a local specialty. Families with children may more appreciate Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum (福井県立恐竜博物館) located in Katsuyama City (勝山市) just off Route 157, than temple.
Take Route 364 north, heading for Kaga City (加賀市) located at the west edge of Ishikawa Prefecture. About 40 minutes of driving through mountains takes you to Yamanaka Onsen (山中温泉), one of the four hot spring towns of Kaga City. Park the car and explore the atmospheric streets lined up with shops, galleries and cozy cafes, as well as the amazing natural attractions including gorges and mountain streams. Handsome public baths are in the middle of the town. After a long drive, a foot bath may be a welcome restorative.
Keep on Route 364 through the hot spring town of Yamashiro Onsen (山代温泉) to Natadera Temple. Established in 717 by priest Taicho (泰澄), this time-honored temple has several halls including a main shrine and treasure hall, a bell tower, a three-storied pagoda, forests, ponds and crags. The ground is covered with lush green moss and seasonal flowers add color to the scenery. Take your time and enjoy it all.
After a couple refreshing hours, slip into the car and drive east along Route 364. Before getting on Route 8 heading for Kanazawa, stop at Metissage (メティサージュ) in Awazu Onsen (粟津温泉), the other hot spring town of the city, for rich croissants. The French owner and his Japanese wife will be happy to help you when you are in need in English, French or Spanish.