Chusonji Temple

What to know

Chusonji (中尊寺, Chūsonji) is Hiraizumi's most famous attraction. Founded in 850 as a Tendai Buddhist temple, it rose to prominence when the northern Fujiwara clan moved their base to Hiraizumi. At its peak, the temple complex included dozens of buildings.

After the Fujiwara fell at the end of the 12th century, Chusonji declined, leaving only two original buildings intact. Fortunately, one of them is the spectacular Konjikido. Like Kyoto's famous Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion), Konjikido is a hall entirely covered in gold. Built in 1124, it is now housed inside another building for protection. Photography of Konjikido is not allowed.

The other surviving building from the Fujiwara period is the Kyozo Hall, a repository for Buddhist sutras. Though less impressive than the gilded Konjikido, it predates it by 16 years.

Chusonji also features several later buildings. The Hondo (main hall) is where the temple's main rituals are held, and the Treasure Hall displays impressive artifacts. There is also a beautiful noh theater stage. The temple's attractions are connected by paths that stretch about one kilometer into the forest.

From Hiraizumi Station, Chusonji is a five-minute ride on a regular bus, a ten-minute ride on the Hiraizumi Loop Bus, or a 20-30 minute walk.