• Chuson-ji Temple - Located in Hiraizumi town, the Konjiki-do at Chusonji Temple is a remarkable small gilded Amida hall. Known as the capital of Buddhism, the town features numerous temples inspired by the Pure Land philosophy, along with many historical sites. The World Heritage includes five sites: Chusonji Temple, Motsuji Temple, the ruins of Kanjizaio-in, the ruins of Muryoko-in, and Mt. Kinkei. Together, these sites form the land of Perfect Bliss. Besides the World Heritage sites, Hiraizumi boasts many other significant temples and ruins. Why not visit and experience the land of Perfect Bliss?
• Hiraizumi-cho - Renowned for the Konjiki-do at Chusonji Temple, a small gilded Amida hall, Hiraizumi town is celebrated as the capital of Buddhism. The town is home to many temples influenced by the Pure Land philosophy and numerous historical sites. The World Heritage comprises five sites: Chusonji Temple, Motsuji Temple, the ruins of Kanjizaio-in, the ruins of Muryoko-in, and Mt. Kinkei. These sites collectively represent the land of Perfect Bliss. In addition to the World Heritage sites, Hiraizumi offers many other valuable temples and ruins. Why not explore the land of Perfect Bliss?
• Kanjizaioin Ruins - Hiraizumi town is famed for the Konjiki-do at Chusonji Temple, a small gilded Amida hall. Known as the capital of Buddhism, the town features numerous temples inspired by the Pure Land philosophy, along with many historical sites. The World Heritage includes five sites: Chusonji Temple, Motsuji Temple, the ruins of Kanjizaio-in, the ruins of Muryoko-in, and Mt. Kinkei. Together, these sites form the land of Perfect Bliss. Besides the World Heritage sites, Hiraizumi boasts many other significant temples and ruins. Why not visit and experience the land of Perfect Bliss?
• Chuson-ji Temple Benkeido - Hiraizumi town is renowned for the Konjiki-do at Chusonji Temple, a small gilded Amida hall. Celebrated as the capital of Buddhism, the town is home to many temples influenced by the Pure Land philosophy and numerous historical sites. The World Heritage comprises five sites: Chusonji Temple, Motsuji Temple, the ruins of Kanjizaio-in, the ruins of Muryoko-in, and Mt. Kinkei. These sites collectively represent the land of Perfect Bliss. In addition to the World Heritage sites, Hiraizumi offers many other valuable temples and ruins. Why not explore the land of Perfect Bliss?
• Sankozo - The Sankozo (Treasure House) Museum, located slightly uphill to the left, is a must-see with over 3,000 exhibits. Visitors are welcomed by three large, impressive wooden gilded statues of Buddha, and a highlight is the stunning 1.74m-tall image of a “Thousand Arms” Kannon, the goddess of mercy.
• Hakusan Shrine - Nearby is a 19th-century thatched Outdoor Noh Stage (Nohgakudo) adjacent to the Hakusan Shrine.
• Motsu-ji Temple - Another major attraction in Hiraizumi is Motsuji Temple (Tel: 0191 46 2331), renowned for its beautiful strolling gardens.

Similar to Chusonji, Motsuji is believed to have been established by the priest Ennin in the 9th century. Although most buildings no longer stand, a few foundation stones remain, and the exquisite, serene Jodo teien Heian garden with its large pond is beautifully preserved. A small museum to the left of the main entrance showcases images of Motsuji’s fascinating festivals (see below).

• Takkoku no Iwaya - Takkoku no Iwaya Bishamondo Temple is a magnificent ancient temple built into a cliff rock wall around 1,200 years ago, and it is the next stop on an exciting day trip. Constructed during the Heian period to honor the ruling government’s victory over the local indigenous Emishi population of the north, the temple’s original appearance has faded over time. However, it has been reconstructed as an impressive structure, offering a wonderful place to spend the afternoon and immerse oneself in a piece of Japanese history.

• Licensed Local English Speaking Guide
• Meet up with guide on foot within designated area of Hiraizumi
• Customizable Tour of your choice of 2-3 sites from ‘What to expect’ list

• Transportation fees, Entrance fees, Lunch, and Other personal expenses
• Private transportation
• You cannot combine multiple tour groups.
• Guide Entry fees are only covered for sights listed under What to Expect.

This value-packed trip with a government-licensed and experienced multilingual tour guide is a fantastic and efficient way to explore Hiraizumi area!

Nestled in the mountains of southern Iwate is Hiraizumi, an ancient city that once rivaled Kyoto for its beauty and elegant surroundings. This was the capital of the Northern Fujiwara lands, an independent country that briefly flowered in the late 1100s. Today, you can see the remnants of that once-beautiful city while enjoying the gorges and other scenic beauty of southern Iwate.

Let us know what you would like to experience and we will customize a four-hour tour that’s best for you!

Note1: Please select your must-see spots from a list in the tour information to create your customized itinerary.
Note2: The National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.

• This is a walking tour. Pick up is on foot.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.