Chusonji Temple

Chusonji is a Tendai Buddhist temple founded in 850 and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2011 as part of the Historic Monuments and Sites of Hiraizumi. The temple complex's masterpiece is the Konjikido (Golden Hall), completed in 1124 and entirely covered in gold leaf inside and out. It houses the remains of four generations of the Northern Fujiwara clan who ruled this region. The Konjikido is the only original structure remaining from the 12th century and is designated a National Treasure. The temple grounds extend about one kilometer through a forested hillside path lined with ancient cedars. The Sankozo Museum displays important temple treasures. Access is from JR Hiraizumi Station, about 20 minutes on foot or via the Runrun loop bus.