The real attraction at Chūson-ji is the Konjiki-dō. This is stunning. Built in 1174, in wood, 25square meters, it has been lacquered all over in gold. Floor, walls, ceiling, roof, everything. The inside is full of statues of bronze also covered in gold. Many of the Fujiwara Lords of the Heian era are buried here. The building is housed inside... More

I visited Chusonji Temple and the Hiraizumi area when the autumn leaves were starting to show their colors. It is believed to be founded in 850 C.E. and rebuilt during the 12th century and is the head temple of the Tendai Sect. It was founded by the Fujiwara clan (Fujiwara no Kiyohara). The Konjiki-Do or Golden Hall is a beautiful... More

It is easy to see why this got UNESCO World Heritage status recently. The whole complex is impressive starting with the avenue of mature cedar trees leading up to the Hondo (main temple). After this point its gets even better the fee to see the museum and small golden shrine for the souls of the Fujiawara clan is 800 yen.... More