Japan Guide
Central Honshū
Myōryū-ji
Religious buildings were often grouped together at the entrance to a city in an attempt to deter enemies, a defensive role that is clearly apparent at Myōryū-ji, five minutes' walk south of the Sai-gawa in the temple-packed Teramachi district. Also known as Ninja-dera this temple, completed in 1643 and belonging to the Nichiren sect of Buddhism, is associated with the Ninja assassins because of its many secret passages, trick doors and concealed chambers, including a lookout tower that once commanded a sweeping view of the surrounding mountains and coast. To see around the temple you must reserve a place on one of several daily tours, conducted in Japanese but pretty self-explanatory. 
076/241-0888 Opening time: Daily: March– Oct 9am–4.30pm; Jan, Feb, Nov & Dec 9am–4pmPrice: ¥800