Chuson-ji
中尊寺
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Chuson-ji
Chuson-ji is a historic shrine and temple in Hiraizumi, Iwate. We've gathered 1 videos so you can explore it across the seasons on screen.
Chuson-ji Temple, located in Hiraizumi-cho, Nishi-Iwai-gun, Iwate Prefecture, is the head temple of the Tendai sect in Tohoku. Oshu Sanjusan Kannon Banneki Fudasho. Its sango (literally, "mountain name") is Kanzan, and its principal image is Shaka Nyorai. According to temple legend, Ennin founded the temple. The actual founder is Fujiwara no Kiyohira. It is famous as a temple associated with the third generation of the Oshu Fujiwara clan, and has many cultural properties, including the Konjikido, a collection of Heian period art, crafts, and architectural styles. The precincts have been designated as a national special historical site as "Chuson-ji precincts". On June 26, 2011, it was registered as a World Heritage Site as one of the constituent assets of "Hiraizumi - Architecture, Gardens and Archaeological Sites Representing the Buddha's Land (Pure Land)". Together with Hiraizumi Motsu-ji Temple, Matsushima Zuigan-ji Temple, and Yamagata Ryuseki-ji Temple, it forms a pilgrimage course called the "Four Temples Corridor."
Source: Wikipedia「中尊寺」 · CC BY-SA 4.0
History & Culture
The Splendor of Hiraizumi
Chuson-ji is the great temple of Hiraizumi, capital of the Northern Fujiwara clan in the 12th century. Its Konjikido (Golden Hall) is entirely covered in gold leaf, a dazzling relic of that age.
A Buddhist Pure Land
In 2011 Hiraizumi, including Chuson-ji, was inscribed as a World Heritage Site for its Buddhist 'Pure Land' temples and gardens.
Hiraizumi, Iwate, Japan
8:30–17:00 (–16:30 in winter)
¥1,000 (Konjikido area)
Hours and fees are a guide and may change — please check official information before your visit.
