Taxi Tour Tracing the Footsteps of Shinran Shonin

This tour explores the historical locations related to Shinran Shonin, the founder of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism, who was exiled to Echigo (present-day Niigata). It takes you through key sites in the Naoetsu area.

◎ Pick-up and drop-off locations can be arranged upon request.

Tour Route

Joetsu-Myoko Station ⇒ Kotahama Beach ⇒ Kokubunji Temple (Takenouchi Hermitage, Kagami Pond) ⇒ Honganji-ha Kofu Betsuin Temple (Takegamae Hermitage) ⇒ Jokōji Temple ⇒ Higashi Honganji Takada Betsuin Temple ⇒ Joetsu-Myoko Station

Duration Standard Taxi (Up to 5 people) Jumbo Taxi (Up to 9 people)
Approx. 2 hours 15,200 JPY 20,800 JPY

Joetsu-Myoko Station

Joetsu-Myoko Station

We’ll meet you at the station in accordance with your Shinkansen arrival time.

Kotahama Beach

Kotahama Beach

This beach is said to be where Shinran Shonin landed after his exile. It features an observation deck with views of the Sea of Japan and the newly rebuilt Kenshindo Hall.

Location: Gochi, Joetsu City
Admission: Free
Contact: Tourism Promotion Division 025-526-5111
Official Website

Kokubunji Temple

Kokubunji Temple (Takenouchi Hermitage & Kagami Pond)

Said to be Shinran’s first residence in Echigo. Kagami Pond is where he is believed to have reflected upon his image morning and evening.

Kofu Betsuin Temple

Honganji-ha Kofu Betsuin Temple (Takegamae Hermitage)

Built on the site of Takegamae Hermitage, where Shinran is said to have moved after his time at Takenouchi.

Jokoji Temple

Jokōji Temple

A temple said to be founded by Shinran Shonin himself. It served as a major base for Jodo Shinshu in the Echigo region.

Takada Betsuin Temple

Higashi Honganji Takada Betsuin Temple

This branch temple of the Higashi Honganji school remains a spiritual center for the local community, preserving Shinran Shonin’s teachings.

Return to Joetsu-Myoko Station

Your tour concludes. We can drop you off at your hotel or ryokan.
*Note: Access to certain destinations may be limited depending on snow conditions.

◎ Reservations & Inquiries

For urgent bookings, feel free to contact us by phone.

Call: 0255-23-3188
Reservation Form