Motsu-ji

Motsu-ji Temple is one of the historic temples included in the World Heritage Sites of Hiraizumi town. The vast grounds contain beautiful Pure Land gardens and buildings, which are considered to have high historical value. The Pure Land garden, where you can enjoy beautiful scenery throughout the four seasons, is a major attraction on the grounds, along with the Heian-era temple ruins designated as both a Special Historic Site and a Special Place of Scenic Beauty. When visiting, be sure to appreciate the seasonal views and the valuable architecture.

Mokoji Temple offers a program where you can experience zazen meditation. Even beginners can participate with careful guidance. Zazen is said to have the effect of calming the mind and body, as well as improving concentration and reducing stress. Why not face yourself in the quiet atmosphere of Mokoji Temple? The zazen experience is available for 1 hour at a cost of 300 yen for students (high school and below) and 500 yen for adults.

There are many tourist spots around Motsu-ji Temple, such as Chuson-ji Temple and Tatsunokuchi Biidoro. Chuson-ji Temple is part of the World Heritage Site in Hiraizumi and attracts many tourists. Tatsunokuchi Biidoro is also a popular spot known as one of the power spots in Iwate Prefecture. In addition, there are many delicious restaurants around Motsu-ji Temple where you can even try the local specialty dish, "Wanko Soba". Take a stroll around Motsu-ji Temple and enjoy delicious food and historical tourist spots.

Motsuji Temple is known as one of the most beautiful cherry blossom viewing spots in Hiraizumi. In spring, the cherry blossoms are in full bloom and many tourists come to visit. The sight of the cherry blossoms coloring the Pure Land Garden and the temple grounds is breathtaking. In addition, various events are held at Motsuji Temple during the springtime Fujiwara Festival. As a valuable temple designated as both a special historic site and a special scenic spot by the government, why not come and feel the arrival of spring?

From mid-June to mid-July, the iris flowers at Mogoshiji Temple are in full bloom. The iris flowers at Mogoshiji Temple were planted in response to a proposal by the citizens of Hiraizumi in 1953, and the following year, they received 100 species and 100 plants from Meiji Shrine in Tokyo. Since then, the number and variety of iris flowers have gradually increased, and now you can enjoy viewing 30,000 iris flowers of 300 species. Every year, the "Mogoshiji Ayame Festival" is held as a highlight of the iris flowers. In addition to the beautiful scenery, you can also enjoy dance performances, children's sketching sessions, and Japanese music concerts.