Chusonji Temple's Konjikido Hall

Chusonji is the head Tohoku region temple of the Tendai sect of Buddhism. The temple was founded by Kiyohira, first of the powerful Oshu Fujiwara clan lords, as a memorial to soldiers fallen in battle and to usher in a peaceful future. Although many of the buildings constructed in 850 were sadly lost to fire, five important cultural properties such as the Konjikido Hall escaped destruction and were preserved as national treasures. Everything from the walls to ceilings to eaves of this elaborately decorated building are covered in gold leaf and just a glimpse of it and the Buddhist altars within is sure to steal your breath away. The altars serve as the final resting place for the mummified remains of the first three Fujiwara lords and the preserved head of the fourth.
(25 minutes on foot from Hiraizumi Station.)

The Jodo Pure Land Garden at Motsuji Temple

Motsuji was constructed by the second lord of the Fujiwara clan, Motohira. Though the temple was unfortunately lost to fire, the garden at the center of the grounds has been carefully restored and preserved. This Jodo garden was built as a representation of the Buddhist Pure Land, namely Jodo, brought to reality on Earth. This park was designed in accordance to “Sakuteiki, EJapan’s oldest garden manual, and incorporates many of its characteristics such as the Oizumi Pond and the Suhama beach shore. As such the park holds significant historical and academic value. The gorgeous irises blooming from mid-June to mid-July is truly a sight to see.
(10 minutes on foot from Hiraizumi Station.)

The Spring Fujiwara Festival at Chusonji Temple

Many events recalling the past glory of the Fujiwara clan are still held today at the Chusonji and Motsuji temples. Several of these festivals have been designated Important Intangible Folk Cultural Assets so they make an ideal time to visit. The Spring Fujiwara Festival is held every May 1st-5th at the Chusonji and Motsuji temples and recreates the warm reception of Yoshitsune Minamoto as he narrowly escaped death at the hands of his older brother, shogun and bitter rival. Held at Motsuji, the Ennen no Mai Longevity Rites are also an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Asset. At the Gokusui no En, held at Motsuji on the fourth Sunday of May, participants garbed in period costume compete at composing on the spot poetry.
(Chusonji and Motsuji temples, near Hiraizumi Station.)

A Geibikei Gorge gondola

The Geibikei Gorge is counted among Japan's 100 most famous views. Sheer rock cliffs extending 2 kilometers tower 100 meters above the river on both sides. These magnificent stony cliffs excite the senses and provide a sublime contrast to the delicate trees and shrubbery in the area. Spectacular views await year round from the wisteria of spring to the deep greens of summer, vibrantly colored leaves of autumn, and snow-covered serenity of winter. A ride on a gondola (1 hour 30 minute round trip) lets you experience the beauty of Geibikei Gorge up close, the way it was meant to be seen.
(5 minutes on foot from Geibikei Station.)