Hiraizumi Travel Tips

4 of 4 in Iwate Prefecture

Hiraizumi (平泉) is a peaceful town in Japan's Tohoku Region, filled with historical charm and natural beauty. It’s home to the stunning Chuson-ji Temple, where you’ll find the glittering golden Konjikido Hall. Nearby, the Motsu-ji Temple invites visitors to relax in its beautifully landscaped Pure Land garden. These sacred places reflect Japan's deep spiritual roots and classical aesthetics.

During the Heian Period, the Fujiwara clan made Hiraizumi their northern base, turning it into a refined political and cultural hub that once rivaled Kyoto. Though the town was destroyed in 1189 by Minamoto Yoritomo—who sought his brother Yoshitsune—Hiraizumi remains a valuable window into Japan's past. Today, it stands as a UNESCO World Heritage site, treasured for its timeless atmosphere and preserved legacy.

Getting around

In Hiraizumi, the best way to see the main sights is by using the "Run Run" Loop Bus or renting a bicycle. The bus connects Hiraizumi Station with places like Motsuji, Chusonji, and Takadachi Giekeido. It runs every 30 minutes and costs 200 yen per ride or 550 yen for a day pass. In 2025, it only runs on weekends and public holidays from April 12 to November 30. Regular buses also run from Ichinoseki Station to Chusonji about once an hour.

In Hiraizumi, renting a bicycle is a fun and easy way to get around. You can find bike rental shops at and near the station, with prices starting at 500 yen for three hours. Electric bikes are also available. A car isn't needed for the central area, but it helps if you're planning to visit more distant spots like Takkoku no Iwaya or the scenic Genbikei and Geibikei Gorges. Car rentals are available at Ichinoseki Station, not in central Hiraizumi.