[2025 Hiraizumi Attraction] Travel Guide for Chūson-ji Temple (Updated Apr)

#2024TravelReview When the red leaves are in full bloom, #Chusonji is really beautiful! In Iwate Prefecture in northeastern Japan, there is a world-famous cultural heritage #Chuson-ji, an ancient temple with a history of thousands of years. It is a treasure house of Buddhist art from the Heian period. The #Golden Hall, which symbolizes the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss, and the #Zankōzo, which contains 3,000 cultural properties, are both highlights worth seeing. However, the most dazzling and charming thing is the red leaves all over the mountain of Chuson-ji Temple. When we visited, the red and yellow leaves were in full bloom. There was a short worship trail with maple leaves exploding on both sides. The red, orange, yellow and green colors were so intoxicating. It was the highlight of the maple leaf viewing trip in the Northeast. At night, the red leaves were lit up by the Milky Way. Chuson-ji Temple is located on a mountain. It has a high terrain and a wide view. You can overlook the entire Hiraizumi. Railway trains shuttle through it, which makes it super fun to take pictures! The approach to the mountain is lined with towering cedar trees, creating a very spiritual and energetic place. #JapanTohokuFreeTravel #TohokuMapleViewing #Chusonji Temple #RedLeavesGalacticArea #2004TravelReview #Hiraizumi #Ichizeki #Iwate

Chusonji Temple in Hiraizumi, Iwate Prefecture. It is a World Heritage site that Iwate Prefecture is proud of. After the subjugation of the Emishi, it was the base of the Oshu Fujiwara clan, which was established between the Emishi and the Shirakawa Barrier in Fukushima. The Golden Hall was a magnificent sight, but I was also impressed by the solemn atmosphere of Tsukimizaka and the various temples along the way. There were many foreign tourists as well. Chusonji Temple is a great place to enjoy Japanese culture. #Domestic travel

[Access] 202 Kinuzeki, Hiraizumi, Hiraizumi-cho, Nishiiwai-gun, Iwate Prefecture [Points] ~Enjoy the World Heritage Site at your leisure~ It is said that Chusonji Temple was founded in 850 by Ennin, a high priest of Enryaku-ji Temple on Mount Hiei. Chusonji Temple is said to be a treasure trove of Heian art and a national treasure and important cultural property, and once you step inside, you will feel a sense of calm. This is a spot you cannot miss when sightseeing in Iwate. *Information as of May 2023. #Tourism

The admission fee to enter the Golden Hall is 800 yen for adults, 500 yen for high school students, 300 yen for junior high school students, and 200 yen for elementary school students, but it doesn't cost anything to view it from the outside, as in this photo 💰😄 The first photo in particular is a famous angle that is often seen ♪ The Golden Hall of Chusonji Temple is a Buddhist temple built in the late Heian period, and along with the Phoenix Hall of Byodo-in Temple in Uji City, Kyoto Prefecture, it is a representative example of Pure Land Buddhism architecture from the Heian period...! 　 The inside of the Golden Hall is simply gold and contains the mummified bodies of Fujiwara Kiyohira, Motohira, and Hidehira. Visiting: November 4th to February 28th 8:30 to 16:30 Access: 25 minutes on foot from JR Hiraizumi Station (5 minutes by car), 15 minutes on foot from the entrance to the approach to the Golden Hall #Free spot #Mountain climbing #Breathtaking view

#Chusonji #Hiraizumi Chusonji Golden Hall. The main hall of this temple, known as a World Heritage Site, is very impressive. In fact, you can visit the main hall for free. There is a fee to enter the Golden Hall, and photography is prohibited, but I was overwhelmed by the sight I had never seen before. It is said that Matsuo Basho also visited this place and composed his haiku. Benkei's grave is also near Chusonji. The land of Chusonji is very vast, and there is a small shrine inside the temple, so it is well worth seeing! Also, since it was a weekday, there were few tourists and it was easy to see. #Historic site with a sense of history

Chuson-ji Temple/Japanese cultural asset, there is a limited evening lighting of red leaves during the red leaves period. You can choose the time. If you happen to be in the surrounding area, you can participate and pay a visit. It is very convenient to drive there. You can go directly to the top parking lot, Sakanoue Parking Lot (paid). It doesn't take long to climb the stairs here to reach the destination. (Saves a short section of uphill road), highly recommended++. You can then visit the Golden Hall of Chuson-ji Temple at your own expense. It is a very historical visit, and then wait for the limited-time lighting at night, which is really worth it. Chusonji Temple 〒029-4102 2023 Hiraizumi Iguan, Hiraizumi Town, Hiraizumi Town, Nishi Iwai-gun, Iwate Prefecture #Chusonji Temple #坂の上parking lot (with information) #MarchGoodPlaces2025

#Spring0yentrip Hiraizumi was a place where deep history and prayers live in silence. First, we visited Chusonji Temple, where we were overwhelmed by the brilliance of the Golden Hall (photography is prohibited, so there are no photos). The moment we stepped inside the building, the air felt tense and we naturally straightened our backs. As we walked along the approach surrounded by greenery, we had a strange feeling as if time was slowly rewinding. Next, we visited Motsuji Temple, where the spacious garden was impressive and time passed quietly and peacefully. In particular, as we walked around Oizumigaike Pond, the sky and trees reflected on the water's surface were beautiful, and just looking at them made us feel relaxed. Traces of the Pure Land gardens of the Heian period still remain, and we felt like we were able to touch a little bit of the "ideal world" that people at that time felt. The whole town was somewhat solemn, and rather than just sightseeing, the words "journey to clear your mind" fit better. It wasn't flashy, but every step had weight. It was a place where you could feel the old beauty of Japan.

Chusonji Golden Hall in Hiraizumi, Iwate Prefecture, is a symbol of the World Heritage Site "Cultural Heritage of Hiraizumi". Inside, everything from the ceiling to the walls and pillars is covered in gold leaf, creating a gorgeous space that truly allows you to experience a "golden world". 🌸 Points of interest 🌸 🔹 Beautiful Buddhist architecture from the Heian period, built by Fujiwara no Kiyohira with prayers for peace 🔹 The golden interior of the hall represents the world of paradise 🔹 A fantastical appearance that harmonizes with the scenery of the four seasons Spring cherry blossoms, summer greenery, autumn leaves, and winter snowscapes - you can enjoy different beauty no matter what season you visit. ⛩️ Recommended not only for history lovers, but also as a photogenic spot! ✨ If you're traveling to Tohoku, be sure to stop by! #0 yen trip February 2025

#0yentravelFebruary2025 [Chusonji Temple] 🕰️Business hours: 0830-1700 🏖️Atmosphere/Facilities: ◯ 📍Address: 202 Hiraizumi Kinuzeki, Hiraizumi-cho, Nishiiwai-gun, Iwate Prefecture 029-4195 💰Price per person: 1000~ 💞Reason for recommendation: Chusonji Temple and Konjikido are in different places‼︎ You can get a goshuin stamp in three places🤍 The long uphill climb was very tough, but the real thing was much more amazing than it looked in photos😭❤️ Admission is 1000 yen🤍 As it is a World Heritage Site, it was very dignified🫣 It's the best!

During the autumn foliage season, Chusonji Temple attracts visitors with its beautiful scenery. In particular, the Golden Hall in the temple grounds is magnificent with its gorgeous decorations and gold leaf-covered Buddha statues, making you feel as if you have wandered into another world. The contrast between the autumn leaves and the Golden Hall is stunning, and you can feel the arrival of autumn while being enveloped in a historical atmosphere. It is a place where you can regain peace of mind while being healed by the beautiful scenery and tranquility☺️ 🕰️Business hours: 8:00-17:00 📍Location: 202 Hiraizumi Kinuzeki, Hiraizumi-cho, Nishiiwai-gun, Iwate Prefecture #0 yen trip February 2025

This time, we will introduce the world heritage site "Chusonji Golden Hall" located in Hiraizumi Town, Iwate Prefecture! ✨🏯 The golden interior of the hall is truly stunning! Please visit as you can enjoy the scenery of the four seasons😊 ——————— ◾︎World Heritage Site in Iwate Prefecture: Chusonji Golden Hall The Golden Hall, the symbol of Chusonji Temple in Hiraizumi Town, Iwate Prefecture, is a national treasure that brings together the craft techniques of the Heian period! The pillars and walls inside the hall are covered with gold leaf and are gorgeously decorated✨ 🌟 Highlights ✅ Golden Hall The interior is completely wrapped in gold leaf, truly a "golden world." It is the only Buddhist hall in Japan that retains its original appearance from the time of its founding, built by Fujiwara Kiyohira in hopes of paradise✨ ✅ Tsukimizaka The approach to Chusonji Temple. You can enjoy the beauty of each season, with cherry blossoms in spring, green maples in summer, autumn leaves in fall, and snowy scenery in winter 🍁❄️ ✅ Sankozo A treasure museum next to the Golden Hall. It displays precious items such as Buddhist statues and scriptures that are national treasures and important cultural properties 📜 🚶 Access: About 25 minutes walk from Hiraizumi Station on the JR Tohoku Main Line / Get off at Chusonji by bus The Golden Hall of Chusonji Temple has continued to shine for over a thousand years. If you visit Iwate, be sure to visit it ✨ ——————— We will continue to introduce wonderful spots ☺️ #IwateTrip #WorldHeritage #Chusonji #DomesticTrip #Tourism #Trip #TravelLover #DomesticSeasonalPlaces

#japantrip Chūson-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Hiraizumi, Iwate, is a masterpiece of Japanese Buddhist heritage. Founded in 850 by the Fujiwara clan, the temple complex is famed for its stunning Konjikidō (Golden Hall), a lavishly gilded structure housing sacred Buddhist statues. Surrounded by serene cedar forests, Chūson-ji offers a peaceful retreat with scenic walking trails and historic treasures. The temple’s rich history, intricate architecture, and cultural significance make it a must-visit for history and spiritual seekers alike. In autumn, vibrant foliage enhances its beauty, while winter blankets it in a magical layer of snow, creating a breathtaking scene.

#0円旅January2025 On the day I visited Hiraizumi, I first visited Chusonji Temple, a World Heritage Site. I was overwhelmed by the beautiful gold leaf decorations of the Golden Hall, and took my time to explore it while feeling its historical weight. The surrounding nature was also magnificent, and just strolling through the quiet grounds was soothing. After that, I visited the nearby Motsuji Temple, where I spent some time feeling the culture of the Heian period while looking at the vast gardens and pond. In the afternoon, I strolled through Hiraizumi Town, a place associated with Yoshitsune, and visited Yoshitsune-do Hall and surrounding historical sites. For lunch, I enjoyed the local specialty "Hiraizumi Soba" and savored the blessings of nature. Finally, I relaxed in Hiraizumi Onsen to soothe my tired body. Hiraizumi, which combines history, nature, delicious food and hot springs, was a wonderful and heartwarming day.

#0 yen travel November Chusonji was founded in 850 by Ennin, a high priest of Enryakuji Temple on Mount Hiei. Later, at the beginning of the 12th century, Kiyohira, the first head of the Oshu Fujiwara clan, built a large number of temples and pagodas. Kiyohira's purpose in building Chusonji was to comfort the spirits of all living beings who died in the wars (the Former Nine Years War and the Later Three Years War) that continued in the Tohoku region in the late 11th century, regardless of whether they were friend or foe, and to build a Buddhist land (a peaceful ideal society based on the teachings of Buddhism) in the Tohoku region, which was once considered a remote area and known as "Michinoku." This was also Kiyohira's determination not to fight, as he had lost his father, wife and children in the wars and was forced into family conflict. The Golden Hall, which still retains the original appearance of Chusonji, was built in 1124. The Amida Hall is "all gold" with gold leaf applied inside and out. The first thing that catches your eye is the decoration inside the hall. From the four scroll pillars and the altar (Buddhist altar) to the nageshi (railings), it is adorned with shining white luminous shell work (mother of pearl), openwork metal fittings, and lacquer lacquer work, bringing together the craft techniques of the late Heian period, making the entire hall feel like a single work of art.

#voyagevibes Chuusonji was opened in 850 by Ennin, the master of Jikaku of Enryaku-ji Temple in Mt. Hiei, and at the beginning of the 12th century, more pagodas were built by the Oshu Fujiwara clan. Many of the buildings burned down in the 14th century, but more than 3,000 Heian art works still remain and are designated as national treasures and important cultural properties. " The "Kinden Hall" is the only building that conveys its original appearance to this day, and the interior and exterior of the hall are beautifully decorated with gold leaf. Access - About 5 minutes by bus from "Hiraizumi Station" on the JR Tohoku Main Line, about 15 minutes on foot from "Chusonji Bus Stop"

When I went to Iwate, I went to the Konjikido 🍁 This year, 2024, is the 900th anniversary of the Konjikido, and they had limited edition goshuin and omamori charms!!! 〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜 ✔️Recommended points 〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜 ⚫︎On the way to Chusonji, there are halls and wankosoba restaurants, so it's fun to take a walk 👣 ⚫︎There are limited edition cut-out goshuin and omamori charms for the 900th anniversary! ⚫︎Photography is prohibited at the Konjikido 🙅♀️, so you have to go to the site to see it! It was really beautiful and gold, so I recommend you go and see it!!! ⚫︎You can also enjoy the autumn leaves from October to November🍁 I went in late October, so I was able to enjoy the green to red gradation and it was beautiful...!!! ⚫︎Each temple along the way has a different goshuin, so it's also recommended for those who collect goshuin🤤 〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜〜 You can also enjoy the autumn leaves at this time of year, so it's a place that I recommend for those who like goshuin while enjoying the autumn leaves🍁!!! Maybe because it's 900 years old, the parking lot was full and it was very crowded, so I recommend going in the morning🫶 ---- 📍 Access 🚄Tohoku Shinkansen Tokyo to Ichinoseki Station about 2 hours 20 minutes 🚃Tohoku Main Line Ichinoseki to Hiraizumi Station about 10 minutes 🚌Hiraizumi Station Shuttle Bus Hiraizumi Station to Chusonji Temple About 10 minutes 👣About 15 minutes walk from the bus stop 🍁Prices Golden Hall admission ticket Adults 1,000 yen High school students 700 yen Middle school students 500 yen Elementary school students 300 yen ※Admission is free for all buildings except the Golden Hall. 🕰️Opening hours (precincts open all year round) March 1st to November 3rd / 8:30-17:00 November 4th to the end of February / 8:30-16:30 ※Ticket issuance stops 10 minutes before. ---- #Domestic travel record #Chusonji Temple #Iwate tourism #Temple stamp #Autumn leaves

Chūson-ji Temple is one of the cultural heritage sites in Hiraizumi, and it was included in the World Heritage list in 2011. It is the main temple of the Tendai sect in the Tohoku region. Entering Chūson-ji from the Tsukimizaka entrance, you are immediately greeted by towering centuries-old trees and the solemn atmosphere of the ancient temple. Along the path, you can see more than a dozen small temples of various sizes. The main hall is the largest area, with the principal Buddha being Amitabha. The Konjikidō, which requires a separate ticket for entry, is the only structure that has been preserved in its original form since its creation. Photography is prohibited inside the hall. It is worth spending some time to appreciate the exquisite craftsmanship. The Treasure Hall across from it houses over 3,000 national treasures and important cultural properties.

#0yentravelautumn I went to Chusonji Temple, a World Heritage Site in autumn! I recommend visiting Chusonji Temple in the morning! There are few people in the morning, so you can see the autumn leaves along with a beautiful sunrise🍁 The best time to visit is from October to November. You can't visit the Golden Hall in the morning, but it's perfect if you want to see the autumn leaves! It's also a good idea to take a walk in the morning to see the autumn leaves at Chusonji Temple, and then go back to see the Golden Hall after breakfast😊 Even if you go in the morning, there are some temples on the grounds that are open, so you can still enjoy it. It's cold, so it's a good idea to take measures against the cold!

The cultural heritage of Hiraizumi in Iwate Prefecture was designated as a World Heritage Site in June 2011✨ Although it is not widely known throughout Japan, it is actually a spot with a lot of attractions! The components of Hiraizumi's World Heritage Site are as follows: - Chuson-ji Temple - Motsu-ji Temple - Kanjizaio-in Ato - Muryoko-in Ato - Mount Kinkeisan Among these, Chuson-ji Temple, Motsu-ji Temple, and Kanjizaio-in Ato are popular with tourists and can be visited in a day! Additionally, a one-day free pass is available for 550 yen, making it an economical way to tour the area☺️ Mochi is also famous here, so it's recommended for lunch!

#traveldiaries #japan #japantrip #iwate What I find particularly captivating about Iwate is its connection to Japan’s history and spirituality. Sites like Chuson-ji Temple and the World Heritage Site Hiraizumi showcase the region’s ancient Buddhist heritage, while also offering moments of reflection and beauty. The prefecture’s historical festivals, such as the Chagu Chagu Umakko horse festival, keep traditional customs alive in a vibrant way. Iwate’s combination of unspoiled nature and rich cultural experiences makes it a remarkable destination for travelers looking to connect with Japan’s traditions while enjoying its scenic grandeur. It’s a place where time seems to slow down, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the simplicity and beauty of life.

Chuson-ji Temple is located in Iwate Prefecture, Japan. It is an important representative of Hiraizumi culture and a world cultural heritage. Chuson-ji Temple was founded in 850 and has more than 30 halls and pagodas, of which the Golden Hall is the most famous. Its interior is completely decorated with gold foil, showcasing the beauty of craftsmanship from the Heian period. The temple is surrounded by dense forests and has different scenery in each season, especially in autumn when the maple leaves turn red, the scenery is particularly charming. Chuson-ji Temple is not only a religious sanctuary, but also an ideal destination for history and culture lovers, allowing people to experience the spirit and architectural charm of the Heian period. #Tohoku #World Cultural Heritage

Lovely province, UNSEEN trip, Dragon's Eye Cruise to see the cliffs in Iwate (岩手) . Iwate (Iwate) is a prefecture in the Tohoku region. It is the second largest in Japan after Hokkaido, right? There are many charming tourist spots here From historical tourist spots And places to see natural scenery Both the top of the valley, cruise along the ancient cliffs Plus, this is the prefecture that breeds Wakame seaweed and abalone the most in Japan, right? . • How to get there You can travel from the airport in Tokyo Continue by train, using the JR Rail Pass or JR East Rail Pass, you can.. take any train in Iwate . Places of interest • Chuson-ji Temple • Ryusendo Cave • Geibikei Gorge • Jodogahama Beach • Morioka Castle Site Park • Koiwai Farm • Mt. Hachimantai • Dragon Eye in Hachimantai • Appi Kogen Ski Resort • Motsuji Temple . Must-try food in Iwate! • Morioka Reimen Cold noodles with watermelon in the bowl • Jajamen Noodles

There are buses to Chusonji from Hiraizumi Station or Ichinoseki Station. There are few buses, so be sure to check before you go. However, if you like walking, you can also walk to Hiraizumi Station. The main attraction of Chusonji is the Golden Hall, but I like Benkei-do, where Benkei is enshrined. The first photo is of the inside. The grounds of Chusonji, which start from Tsukimizaka, are vast, and there are many things to see, so I hope you will take your time. The 10th and 11th photos are of lunch at Cafe SEKIMAYA, which is located on the way from Chusonji to Hiraizumi Station. The pasta here was incredibly delicious! There are also other tourist spots such as Motsu-ji Temple, Kinkei-san, and the remains of Muryoko-in Temple. However, if you use the bus, be careful as there are few buses. #WorldHeritage #Hiraizumi #HiraizumiTourism

[Access] About 25 minutes by taxi from Ichinoseki Station Inside Chusonji [Points] Inside Chusonji, there are many things to see, not just the Golden Hall. The Golden Hall is at the top, and on the way down the slope from there, there are other sights to see on both sides, such as the Fudo Hall and the Benkei Hall. They are all attached to each other, so it's a good idea to look at them one by one as you go down the slope. *Information as of May 2023. #Tourist Spots

[Access] About 25 minutes by taxi from Ichinoseki Station Inside Chusonji Temple [Points] Hakusan Shrine is related to the faith of Hakusan, and is said to have been spread throughout the country by ascetics who trained at the sacred mountain of Hakusan in the Hokuriku region. The Noh stage and torii gates in the shrine grounds are said to have been built and donated by the former lord of the Date clan, Date Yoshikuni, in 1853. Please visit Hakusan Shrine, where time flows at a leisurely pace. *Information current as of May 2023. #Tourist Spots

Location: Autumn leaves at Chusonji Temple, World Heritage Site [Hiraizumi] Address: 202, Hiraizumi Kinuzeki, Hiraizumi-cho, Nishiiwai-gun, Iwate Prefecture Visited: 22.11.08 It was a sacred place with beautiful autumn leaves and a sense of history. A chrysanthemum exhibition was also held. In summary, Chusonji Temple is a place of non-combat determination to comfort the spirits of all living things, regardless of friend or foe, and to build a Buddhist land, and I agree. Amazing, Chusonji Temple 😊 #Autumn leaves #Autumn leaf viewing #Hiraizumi #Chusonji Temple #A place where you can feel history #A trip to touch history and culture

The Zhongzun Temple in Iwate Prefecture was built in the 850s of the Tiantai Ancestral Temple in the northeast of the Tiantai Mountains. At the beginning of the 12th century, the early dynasty of Ouyoshi Fujiwara built a large temple. Although many temples and pagodas were burned down in the early 14th century, more than 3,000 national treasures and important cultural assets such as the Golden Church were preserved. Zhongzun Temple has now been registered as a World Heritage Site. There are many Buddhist temples in Zhongzun Temple and an outdoor energy stage. The golden church was built in 1124 and is the only building that has been preserved since the founding period. The entire hall is covered with gold foil. Because there is no picture inside and there are no buildings outside, there are no photos. The Zhongzun Temple in Pingquan and the Maoyue Temple, the Ruiyan Temple in Songdo, and the Lishi Temple in the Yamagata Mountain Temple were all created by Master Tsaoju. The so-called "Temple of the Four Temples" is also the tour of the "Oshu Trail" on the way. Passed the temple. There is a statue of a pine-tailed banana in the temple. address