Experience the Calming Atmosphere of Chuson-ji Temple

A transcendental journey north to Kyoto’s historical rival, Hiraizumi, Iwate Prefecture

In Iwate Prefecture is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hiraizumi. At the peak of its influence, the town rivaled Kyoto in cultural importance.

Chuson-ji Temple is an important part of that legacy. The temple itself was founded in 850 and eventually became one of the region’s most important temple complexes. Most services and rituals are held in the main hall. You’ll slowly get a sense of the massive scale as you walk the temple grounds. Moss grows throughout the temple complex, adding to the ethereal ambiance.

The highlight is the Konjiki-do (Golden Hall), built in 1124 and dedicated to the Buddha Amida Nyorai. It’s also the only original structure still at Chuson-ji and is covered in gold leaf inside and out, giving it a striking appearance matched in the interior by the intricate carvings, inlays, and metalwork. It was among the first structures to be designated as a Japanese National Treasure.

Audio guide services are available in English. 

Access: From Tokyo Station, take the Tohoku Shinkansen to Ichinoseki Station (about two hours), then transfer to the Tohoku Line local train to Hiraizumi Station (about seven minutes). Chuson-ji is a four-minute taxi ride or a 22-minute walk from the station.

Chuson-ji Temple