Iiyama Temple Town Route

The area around Iiyama Station, called by literary master Toson Shimazaki the “snow country’s little Kyoto,” is home to its own regionally-unique buildings and historic sites, not the least of which are over 20 different temples and shrines, and is also dotted with places such as stylish cafes and popular confectioneries. This route gives riders the chance to have it all, experiencing each of these charms without compromise.
The route begins at Iiyama Station and proceeds to Nio-mon Gate and then to Shojuan. While featuring a stark contrast between the impressive and imposing stances of the jet-black Nio guardian statues and its traditional thatched roof, this priests’ hermitage is the perfect first step to get a feel for the history and culture of this temple town of Iiyama. It is also the ideal starting spot for visiting the shrines and temples that dot the city streets, particularly for those with a special interest in seeing the holy sites.

From there, proceed with the giant ramp of the Iiyama Schanze on your left and head toward Gangi-dori, known as the town of Atago’s “Buddhist Altar Street.” “Gangi” refers to a type of roofing used in snowy regions to shield street-side pedestrians from the snow. The street, with its gangi continuing for approximately 300 meters, is a truly iconic “snow country” scene.
In addition to the numerous Buddhist altar shops standing side by side, the street is full of restaurants and other points of interest, such as the Mayumi Takahashi Museum of Doll Art. From there, the route passes by Iikasayama Shrine and Iiyama Castle Ruins Park before heading back toward Iiyama Station. Along the way, don’t forget to drop in any of the cafes and confectioneries that interest you. There are all kinds to be found, from venerable and well-loved local cornerstones to original and stylish merchants that have just opened their doors in recent years.

There is a small uphill leg along the road from Shojuan to Iiyama Castle Ruins Park, but it does not take very much time, even for those who select to walk their bikes along this portion. Feel free to stop and spend time wherever you like for as long as you like along the way.
One of the great things about this route is all the little discoveries that can be made precisely because you are meandering around by bike. From the holes in the center of the city streets (They spout water in the winter due to the melting snow!) to the manhole cover designs and the shapes of the traffic lights and fire hydrants, there are little signs of snow country culture all over, waiting for you to notice them.