Chusonji Temple

UNESCO World Heritage

中尊寺

Chusonji is the main temple of the Tendai school of Buddhism in the Tohoku region, on Mt. Kanzan in Hiraizumi. In the early 12th century, Kiyohira, the first Oshu Fujiwara leader, built many halls here. Its most famous building is the Konjikido (Golden Hall), built in 1124 and among the first National Treasures of Japan. The temple holds over 3,000 treasures and important cultural properties.

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Visitor information

Opening hours

March 1 to November 3: 8:30–17:00.

November 4 to the end of February: 8:30–16:30.

Admission

One ticket covers Sankozo, Konjikido, the Sutra Repository and the Old Covered Hall: adults 1,000 yen, high school 700 yen, junior high 500 yen, elementary 300 yen.

Hours and fees can change. Please check the official website before you go.

Good to know

Lotus flowers bloom in late July.
Autumn leaves around Konjikido are best from late October to early November.

Tips for Muslim visitors

Allow about 1 to 2 hours to visit the temple grounds.
From the town parking lot you walk up Tsukimizaka, the temple's main approach.
Hiraizumi Rest House in Hiraizumi has a Muslim-friendly restaurant.
Restaurant customers at Hiraizumi Rest House can use a prayer room, for groups of about 4-5 people or more with advance reservation.
Buddhist temples welcome visitors of all faiths. You can enjoy the buildings and gardens without joining any prayer, burning incense or buying charms.
Many halls ask you to take off your shoes. Wear socks and shoes that are easy to slip off, and keep a bag for your shoes if none is provided.
Photography is often not allowed inside halls. Follow the signs and ask staff if you are unsure.
Plan your visit around prayer times. Below are today's prayer times for Iwate and the verified places to pray nearby.
Food stalls and shops near popular sights usually do not have halal certification. Check the ingredients, or choose from the verified places on this site.