Located in Hiraizumi, Iwate Prefecture, Chūson-ji is a historic Buddhist temple founded in 850 by the monk Ennin (Jikaku Daishi). It later flourished under the rule of the Ōshū Fujiwara clan in the 12th century, who built the temple complex as a spiritual and cultural center of northern Japan. Today, Chūson-ji is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Hiraizumi – Temples, Gardens and Archaeological Sites Representing the Buddhist Pure Land.”
Why Visit Chūson-ji?
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Explore one of Japan’s most important historic temples with over 1,000 years of history
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Discover the stunning Konjikidō (Golden Hall), richly decorated with gold leaf and mother-of-pearl inlay
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Walk through peaceful temple grounds surrounded by cedar trees
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Learn about the cultural achievements of the Fujiwara clan
Highlights
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Konjikidō (Golden Hall)
The main attraction of Chūson-ji, built in 1124, is a dazzling hall completely covered in gold leaf, housing the remains of the Fujiwara lords. It is preserved inside a modern protective structure.
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Sutra Repository and Museum
Chūson-ji preserves thousands of national treasures and cultural properties, including sutras, artifacts, and artworks from the Heian period. -
Tsukimizaka Approach
A scenic uphill path lined with tall cedar trees, creating a tranquil atmosphere leading to the main temple. -
Seasonal Beauty
The temple grounds are especially beautiful in spring cherry blossoms, summer greenery, autumn foliage, and winter snow.
Access
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By Train: About 10 minutes by bus or taxi from JR Hiraizumi Station (Tohoku Main Line).
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By Car: Around 5 minutes from the Hiraizumi interchange on the Tohoku Expressway.
Why Chūson-ji Is Special
Chūson-ji is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of the cultural and spiritual prosperity of northern Japan during the Heian period. Its Konjikidō Golden Hall stands as one of the most spectacular examples of Buddhist art in Japan, making it a must-visit destination for history, culture, and architecture enthusiasts.
Related articles
Official Website
https://www.chusonji.or.jp/language_en/index.html
Accommodation sites
Agoda
