Chusonji Temple

Chusonji Temple (中尊寺), a Buddhist temple located in Hiraizumi, Iwate Prefecture, Japan, was founded in 850 AD by the Buddhist monk Jikaku Daishi Ennin. It is renowned for its historical and cultural significance.

One of the most notable features of Chusonji Temple is the Konjikido, also known as the Golden Hall. Built in 1124, the Konjikido is a small, octagonal building covered in gold leaf, considered one of the finest examples of Buddhist architecture and art from the Heian period (794-1185). The interior of the Konjikido is also adorned with gold leaf and intricate carvings and paintings.

Another important building at Chusonji Temple is the Hondo, or main hall, built in 1109. The Hondo has undergone several renovations throughout the centuries and houses many important Buddhist statues and artifacts.

The temple complex also includes other significant structures like the Sutra Repository, which contains numerous valuable scriptures, the Mieido Hall, and the Benkeido Hall. Chusonji Temple is also known for its beautiful gardens, designed to reflect the Buddhist concepts of paradise and enlightenment. The gardens feature a number of ponds, waterfalls, and rock formations, as well as a variety of trees and plants.

Chusonji Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the most important cultural sites in Japan. It is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world who come to admire its stunning architecture, art, and gardens.

TOC

Getting there
1. By Train and Walking
2. By Bus
Details

Getting there

By Train and Walking

From Hiraizumi Station:

20-30 minute walk

By Bus

From Hiraizumi Station:

Take the Hiraizumi “Run Run” Loop Bus (5 minutes, 200 yen)
Take a regular bus to Tsukimizaka-iriguchi bus stop (5 minutes)

Details

Hours	March 1st to November 3rd / 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM November 4th to February 28th / 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Admission	Adults: 800 yen High school students: 500 yen Junior high school students: 300 yen Elementary school students: 200 yen
Phone	+81 191-46-2211
Address	Koromonoseki-202 Hiraizumi, Nishiiwai District, Iwate 029-4195
Official Website	https://chusonji.or.jp/