Chuson-ji Temple

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Chuson-ji Temple

A Temple Famous for the Glistening National Treasure “Konjikidō Golden Hall” and Lotuses.

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Supervised by :  Chuson-ji Temple

Chuson-ji Temple, founded in 850 AD, owns over 3,000 national treasures and important cultural properties and is also registered as a World Heritage site.
This temple was built to transmit the powerful wish to comfort the spirits of those killed in the Tohoku War, no matter which side they were on.

There are many buildings on the temple’s grounds. However, even out of all of them, the Konjikidō Golden Hall holds particular beauty, with both the building and statues of Buddha within glittering gold. It is gaining much recognition as an exquisite work of art.
In addition, Buddha, who corrects people’s wrongdoings, is enshrined in the building Fudodo. The statue of Buddha in this hall may have a bit of a stern expression, but if you pray to it for things such as family safety, health, good grades, and safe travels, it is said that your wishes will be granted by divine favor.

There are also many other sights to see at Chuson-ji, such as the Main Hall, which has seen many events occur through the years, and the hill Tsukimizaka (Moon Viewing Slope) where two Japanese cedar trees that are over 300 years old still stand.

Highlights

  • In possession of over 3000 national treasures and Important Cultural Properties.
  • Konjikidō Golden Hall, which has been designated as a national treasure, is exquisitely decorated and glistens with gold leaf. Photography inside is prohibited.
  • ”Chuson-ji Hasu” is a famous location where lotuses grow. They are at their most stunning every year in the mornings from mid-July through mid-August.
  • Japanese cedar trees that are over 300 years old stand tall on both sides of the approach to the shrine, called “Tsukimizaka.”
  • There are many temple buildings across the precincts, so be sure to bring enough money!

Photos

  • The "New Pavilion" protects the Konjikidō Golden Hall. The Konjikidō Golden Hall is inside this pavilion.

    The "New Pavilion" protects the Konjikidō Golden Hall. The Konjikidō Golden Hall is inside this pavilion.

Official FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.

Q

Do you have pamphlets in other languages? (If so, please also inform us of the supported languages)

A

Multilingual support is available (PDFs are available on the official website)

Q

Do you have temple’s red ink stamps?

A

Yes.

Q

Is parking available?

A

There is a municipal parking lot.

Q

Are coin lockers available?

A

Not available.

Reviews

18

Some reviews are AI-translated.

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    Visiting the World Heritage Site of Chuson-ji Temple, I was deeply captivated as soon as I entered the grounds by the towering ancient trees and peaceful, historic atmosphere! Strolling up Tsukimizaka, you can visit Fudodo Hall and the solemn Jizo statues along the way. From higher up, you can also look out over the vast, green countryside of Hiraizumi, bringing a deep sense of peace to both body and mind.

    Visiting the iconic Konjikido Hall and Sankozo Museum, I was amazed to see the ultimate golden splendor and rich history of the Heian period firsthand. It was truly impressive! After getting tired from walking, buy a rich and flavorful limited-edition soft-serve ice cream beside the main approach and enjoy it while taking in the forest air. It's a perfect trip combining culture, beautiful scenery, and delicious food!

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    Located in Hiraizumi, Iwate Prefecture, Chuson-ji Temple is one of the Tohoku region's most iconic historic sites and a renowned World Heritage Site in Japan. Walking along the approach through lush woods, the solemnity of the ancient temple intertwines with the tranquility of nature to create a unique atmosphere, making you feel as though you've stepped into a thousand years of history.

    The most anticipated sight is Konjikido, or the Golden Hall. Decorated with lavish craftsmanship using gold leaf and mother-of-pearl inlay, it is exquisite and dazzling, and is Chuson-ji Temple's most precious cultural treasure. In addition to admiring the beauty of the architecture, you can experience the distinctive Zen atmosphere and tranquility of a Japanese temple amid the mountain forests as they change with the seasons.

    When visiting Chuson-ji Temple, take your time and appreciate the traces of history woven together by the old trees, stone steps, and temple buildings. This is more than just a sightseeing trip; it's a cultural stroll through a thousand years of history.

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    There are lots of Buddha statues covered in gold leaf inside the Golden Hall, but unfortunately, photos aren’t allowed.

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    One of the most famous ancient temples in Tohoku, and it's also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The environment is peaceful, relaxing, and quiet. The famous Golden Hall is absolutely stunning and luxurious—definitely worth a visit.

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    The cedar-lined avenue on both sides has really fresh air. It's a very pleasant walk.

Details

Name in Japanese
中尊寺
Postal Code
029-4102
Address
202 Koromonoseki, Hiraizumi, Hiraizumi-cho, Nishiiwai-gun, Iwate
Telephone
0191-46-2211
Closed
Open every day
Business Hours
March 1st-November 3rd 8:30am - 5:00pm.
November 4th-End of February 8:30am - 4:30pm.
Admission
Adults 1,000 yen. High school students 700 yen. Junior high students 500 yen. Elementary school students 300 yen.
Access
10 minutes by car from the JR Tohoku Line Hiraizumi Station
Credit Cards
Not accepted
Official Website
Official Website (English)
Hokkaido Tohoku Kanto Chubu Hokuriku Kansai Chugoku Shikoku Kyushu Okinawa