Toyama Tourism: Discover Inami Betsuin Zuisenji Temple in Japan’s Leading Woodcarving Town

Many travelers think of food when they hear “Toyama.” The city is famous for seafood from Toyama Bay, often called a natural fish tank. But Toyama offers more than gourmet dishes. Discover another side of the region through its centuries-old craftsmanship and traditional arts.

• Toyama
• solo travel
• shrinesandtemples
• Street Strolls
• artmuseum
• museum

Introduction

Working in travel media, I’m often asked, “What’s the best place to visit in Japan right now?” These days, my answer is instant: “Inami in Toyama.” I recently visited for work, and I was instantly captivated by the sights, sounds, scents, and people of this remarkable town.

Inami, Nanto City, Toyama: A Town Renowned for Woodcarving

Inami is a small town, but it has a deep tradition of woodcarving. Nearly 200 artisans still practice their craft here, making it one of Japan’s leading woodcarving towns. Yokamachi Square serves as the main gateway for visitors, offering a tourist information center and paid parking for exploring the area.

Yokamachi Street: A Scenic Promenade You’ll Want to Keep Walking

From Yokamachi Square, a gently sloping cobblestone street stretches about 200 meters toward Inami Betsuin Zuisenji Temple. Traditional Inami woodcarving workshops line the way, their open fronts welcoming visitors inside. Step in and you’re met with the scent of fresh wood and the clear sounds of chisels and mallets at work. The open design lets in natural light, allowing you to watch skilled artisans carve wood up close and experience the craft with all your senses.

Listen to the Sounds of Your Journey

It’s a crisp, soothing sound—it was selected by the Ministry of the Environment as one of the “100 Soundscapes of Japan”.

About Inami Betsuin Zuisenji Temple

Zuisenji Temple has a 600-year history, and its main hall—rebuilt in 1886—is known as the fourth largest in Japan. You won’t grasp its full scale until you pass through the temple gate, but as you approach the main hall, its overwhelming presence and architectural grandeur will surely astonish you.

At Zuisenji Temple, you can admire intricate wood carvings even before passing through the main gate. Above the grand doors, a powerful dragon emerges with striking depth and three-dimensional detail, creating an impressive first impression as you arrive.

The History of Inami Wood Carving

About 250 years ago, master temple carpenters were sent from Kyoto, bringing their skills to this area. Their techniques have long been highly regarded and have been used to restore many shrines, temples, and cultural treasures across Japan, including Sensoji Temple and Shuri Castle.

Enjoy Inami Wood Sculpture at the Night Museum

This event lets you enjoy Inami wood carvings from a fresh perspective. An active sculptor personally guides you around the temple, sharing insights that only a practicing artisan can offer.

See Inami Wood Carvings Shine in the Night Illumination

Inside the temple, many works are installed high up, making some details hard to see during the day. At night, the lighting highlights shadows and textures, revealing new discoveries and points of interest even the sculptors hadn’t noticed.
It is said that even active sculptors, when facing creative blocks, come to the temple to seek inspiration before returning to their work.

Fee: 20,000 yen per group (up to 10 people)
*For groups of 11 or more, an additional 2,000 yen will be charged per person (including admission, guide, and illumination fees)
Minimum number of participants: 1 person (maximum 20 people)
Meeting time: Any time between 5:00 P.M. and 7:00 P.M.
As the weather turns colder, the interior of the main hall becomes even chillier, so visitors are advised to dress warmly during certain times of the year.

Zuisenji Night Museum [Visit the official website here]

Community-Building Project in Inami

Inami is not only preserving its long-standing traditions but also welcoming new stores and initiatives throughout town. Like many regions, some people leave, but others come in, creating a vibrant circulation within the community. Rather than seeing departures as negative, Inami views them as a "source" and actively nurtures talent. People take the skills and values learned here out into the wider world, while new individuals with potential are invited to join.

Trendy Shops Featuring Bread, Beer, and More

NAT.BREW, a craft beer shop, moved to Inami a few years ago and opened its doors. Originally a wine producer, the owner fell in love with the area and decided to try beer brewing. They use local ingredients and collaborate with other shops. Just a few steps away is a wooden barrel factory, and NAT.BREW purchases barrels directly from there.

A Town Shaped by Its Residents

I strongly feel that the residents here, including newcomers, embrace a spirit of challenge and innovation. The artisan ethos seems to have spread throughout the community. People are constantly refining what already exists and making it even better. Not just the sculptures, but the town itself continues to grow in charm. Inami is a place I highly recommend and hope to visit again.