Soji-ji Soin is a temple in Monzen, Wajima City, Ishikawa Prefecture, founded in 1321. It was once the head temple of the Soto school of Zen Buddhism, but after that role was transferred to Daihonzan Soji-ji in Yokohama, Kanagawa, this original site took on the name “Soin.”
If you’re wondering whether to drive or take the bus to Soji-ji Soin, this guide breaks down both routes in detail.
About Soji-ji Soin
Founded in 1321, Soji-ji Soin has a long history as the former head temple of the Soto Zen sect. Today, the head-temple role belongs to Daihonzan Soji-ji in Yokohama, while this Wajima site — known as “Soin” — continues to carry on the temple’s history from its founding.
How to Get There
Soji-ji Soin sits on the western side of the Noto Peninsula, on the opposite side from the peninsula’s rail lines. If you’re relying entirely on public transit, keep in mind that connections and travel time can add up.
By Car (from Tokyo via expressway)
Driving is the most recommended way to reach the temple. From Tokyo via the expressway, the route is:
Route: Exit at Himi IC → Route 415 → Prefectural Route 233 → head north on Route 249
From Himi IC, it takes about 1 hour 30 minutes by car to reach Soji-ji Soin.
By Bus (from Anamizu Station)
If you’re using public transit, take the bus bound for “Soji-ji Soin-mae” from Anamizu Station.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Departure point | Anamizu Station |
| Travel time | About 37 minutes |
| Fare | ¥690 |
Since the peninsula’s rail line runs along the east side, even Anamizu Station — the nearest terminal station — is some distance away. Factor in the time to reach Anamizu Station itself when planning your schedule.
Parking Near Soji-ji Soin
Soji-ji Soin has no dedicated visitor parking lot, and the large parking area belonging to the facility right in front of the temple isn’t available to visitors either. If you’re driving, the most convenient option is the Wajima municipal parking lot attached to “Zen no Sato Hiroba,” located at the far end of the Soji-ji-dori shopping street — on the opposite side from the temple.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Parking lot | Zen no Sato Hiroba (Wajima municipal parking) |
| Distance to temple | About a 5-minute walk (~550m) |
| Fee | Free |
The temple sits just off Route 249, and whether you’re coming from the Kanazawa direction or from central Wajima, the same signage along the route makes it easy to find — about 3 minutes off the main road.
A Note for Drivers
The Noto Peninsula suffered significant damage from the earthquake that struck in January 2024. Recovery efforts have progressed and road conditions have largely improved, but some routes are still best avoided. If you’re driving to Soji-ji Soin, check the latest road conditions beforehand and drive with extra care.
Summary
Driving is the recommended way to reach Soji-ji Soin, since the temple sits on the western side of the Noto Peninsula, opposite the peninsula’s rail line and main roads.
By car, it takes about 1 hour 30 minutes from Himi IC. By public transit, take the bus bound for “Soji-ji Soin-mae” from Anamizu Station — about 37 minutes, ¥690. Parking isn’t available right at the temple, so plan on the free municipal lot at “Zen no Sato Hiroba” a short walk away.
Note that due to the Noto Peninsula earthquake in 2024, some road conditions aren’t fully back to normal. Drive carefully and be prepared to avoid certain routes.
FAQ
Q: Should I drive or take the bus to Soji-ji Soin? A: Driving is the most recommended option, since the temple is on the western side of the peninsula, away from the rail lines.
Q: How long does it take by car from Tokyo? A: About 1 hour 30 minutes from Himi IC to Soji-ji Soin.
Q: Where do I catch the bus if I’m using public transit? A: Take the bus bound for “Soji-ji Soin-mae” from Anamizu Station — about 37 minutes, ¥690.
Q: Is there parking at Soji-ji Soin? A: There’s no dedicated parking lot, and the facility parking right in front of the temple isn’t available to visitors. Use the Wajima municipal parking lot at “Zen no Sato Hiroba,” at the end of the Soji-ji-dori shopping street — it’s free and about a 5-minute walk away.
Q: Is there anything drivers should watch out for? A: Some roads still haven’t fully recovered from the January 2024 Noto Peninsula earthquake. Check the latest conditions before you go and drive carefully.
Thanks for reading!
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