Zen & Gold: A Solo Journey to Kanazawa’s Hidden Jewel, Jinmu-ji Temple

#summervacay **Why Go Solo?** Tucked away in Kanazawa’s cultural heart, **Jinmu-ji Temple (神宮寺)** offers a rare blend of **serene gardens, gold-leaf artistry, and zero crowds**—perfect for solo travelers craving quiet reflection or a photogenic escape. --- ### **🌿 Your Perfect Temple Visit Itinerary** #### **📍 Getting There (Like a Local)** - **From Kanazawa Station:** Take the **Kanazawa Loop Bus (Left Loop)** to **Honda-no-Mori stop** (15 mins, ¥200), then walk 5 mins through leafy streets. - **Hidden Entrance:** Look for the **unassuming wooden gate**—no flashy signs, just a stone path leading inward. #### **⏰ Best Time to Visit** - **Sunrise (5-6 AM):** Golden light filters through maple trees (gate is always open). - **Weekday Mornings:** Avoid weekend tea ceremony groups. #### **✨ Must-Do Experiences** 1. **Gold-Leaf Meditation:** The temple’s **gold-leaf adorned Buddha** (a Kanazawa specialty) shimmers in candlelight. 2. **Garden Stroll:** Moss-covered stones and a **kare-sansui (dry landscape)** garden designed for contemplation. 3. **Matcha Break:** Sip **gold-flecked matcha** (¥800) on the veranda overlooking the garden. #### **📸 Secret Photo Spot** - **Behind the Main Hall:** A tiny **shrine framed by maple trees**—especially magical in autumn. --- ### **💰 Budget Breakdown** - **Entry:** **Free** (donations welcome). - **Matcha Set:** ¥800–1,000. - **Transport:** ¥400 (round-trip bus). --- ### **⚠️ Solo Traveler Tips** - **Shoes Off:** Leave them at the **genkan (entrance)**. - **Silence Please:** This is a working temple—keep chats hushed. - **Combine With:** **Higashi Chaya District** (10-min walk) for more gold-leaf wonders. --- **Why You’ll Love It:** Jinmu-ji is where **Kanazawa’s gold-leaf legacy meets Zen simplicity**—a hidden gem even many locals overlook. **Tag your visit #kanazawagoldzen!** 🏯🍃 *(Psst—afterward, hunt for **gold-leaf ice cream** at nearby *Hakuichi*!)*