At the southwestern corner of Iwate Prefecture lies the historic city of Hiraizumi. Surrounded by rivers in the Kitakami Basin, Hiraizumi was one of the most prominent cities of the island nation during the Heian Period under the rule of the Fujiwara Clan. A visit to Hiraizumi is trip back into history focusing on the rich Buddhist heritage of the city.
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Although the land of the Fujiwara’s was destroyed around the end of the 12th century, some of its most iconic properties have withstood the passage of time, making this one of Tohoku Region’s jewels and since 2011 part of UNESCO’s World Heritage list.
Leading the list of beautiful and historical spots is Chuson-ji temple. This large complex of temples was built in the year 850 as part of the Tendai sect. It is located at a hilltop enjoying impressive views of the city and is home to the Konjikido, a stunning golden hall and the Kyozo Hall, a repository of Buddhist scripture. Not far from Chuson-ji in distance and popularity is Motsu-ji temple, another Tendai temple famous for its garden which was built to recreate the “Buddhist Paradise” concept. And in the city’s outskirts, another beauty rounds up the list of must-see temples in this historic city; The Takkoku no Iwaya, which, at a quick glance, seems to be sprouting out of a cliff. Not only it’s awesome to see up close, but also a place with a lot of spiritual energy and beauty.
Besides the cultural heritage sites, Hiraizumi City is surrounded by the natural beauty of parks and mountains with strong historical significance. The former temple grounds of Muryoko-in Ato, Mount Kinkeisan, and the historical park of Yanagi no Gosho (said to have been the residence of the Fujiwara’s), are worth a stop while visiting the World Heritage Properties. All this history is complemented by the high quality food available around town which includes the wanko soba experience, organic japanese food, and even the local craft beer of Hiraizumi Brewers.
To get the best out of your time in Hiraizumi, renting a bicycle right outside the station is the way to go. The city is walkable but the must-visit locations are spread apart and are easier to get to on two wheels. If biking proves to be too much of a challenge, then hop on the Run Run tourist bus and enjoy the World Heritage Tour course.- Chuson-ji Temple
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4.5
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- Iwate Pref. Nishiwaigunhiraizumichou Hiraizumi Koromonoseki 202
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- Chuson-ji Temple
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4.5
795 Reviews -
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- Iwate Pref. Nishiwaigunhiraizumichou Hiraizumi Koromonoseki 202
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- 0191462211
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- 8:30-17:00 [11/Apr.--Feb. E…
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- Motsuji Temple
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4.0
446 Reviews -
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- Iwate Pref. Nishiwaigunhiraizumichou Hiraizumi Osawa 58
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- 0191462331
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- Takkoku no Iwaya Bishamondo Hall (Takkoku Seikoji Temple)
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4.5
150 Reviews -
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- Iwate Pref. Nishiwaigunhiraizumichou Hiraizumi Kitazawa 16
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- Mt. Kinkeizan
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- Iwate Pref. Nishiwaigunhiraizumichou Hiraizumi Hanadate In the ground
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- Muryoko-in Ato Ruins
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- Iwate Pref. Nishiwaigunhiraizumichou Hiraizumi Hanadate In the ground
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- Yanagi Palace Ruins Historic Park
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- Iwate Pref. Nishiwaigunhiraizumichou Hiraizumi Yanaginogosho
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- 0196296488
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- [Historic Park] [Apr.--Oct.…
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