Natadera Temple was first established in 717 by the same Buddhist monk who established the Hoshi Ryokan. It is located in Komatsu city, which is close by to Awazu Onsen. The temple is part of the Shingon Sect of Buddhism and features a pond garden and rock face with hand cut meditation caves. The meditation caves can be reached by using the stairs that were carved into the cliffside. One of the main objects of worship at the temple is a wooden carving of Kannon, goddess of mercy and compassion, made by the founding monk who believed the goddess resided at Mount Hakusan. The carving can be found in the rock face located in the back of the temple. Natadera Temple has spacious grounds that would take about half an hour to explore. The recently constructed Kondo Hall houses a large statue of Kannon and next to the hall is the treasure house. On a hillside opposite of the cliff is a three storied pagoda that overlooks the grounds. Nearby is an observation deck with rewarding views of the entire temple grounds.
