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Temple · Iwate · Tohoku

Motsu-ji

毛越寺

Buddhist temple from the 12th century, renowned for its gold-leaf decorated hall and picturesque pond garden in the finest Heian-era style.

Updated 2026/10/13
The pure land garden of Motsu-ji
The pure land garden of Motsu-ji © Nerotaso, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Opening hours
Mon–Sun 08:30–17:00
Holidays 08:30–17:00
Admission
Standard
Adult ¥700
Links
Official website English · Japanese
Access
Osawa 58, Hiraizumi, Hiraizumi Town, Nishiiwai District, Iwate
〒 029-4102How to get there
Nearest stationHiraizumi Station
平泉Tohoku Main Line13 min walk from the station
Nearest bus stop毛越寺1 min walk from the bus stop

Motsu-ji is a Buddhist temple located in Hiraizumi, Japan. It was founded in the 12th century by the powerful local ruler Hidehira Fujiwara and was one of the most important temples in the area during the Heian period. The temple's main hall, the Konjikido, is known for its intricate gold leaf and lacquerwork and is considered a national treasure. The temple grounds are also home to a picturesque pond garden, which is considered to be one of the finest examples of Heian-era garden design. Motsu-ji is also a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its cultural and architectural significance. Visitors to the temple can learn about its rich history and admire its beautiful architecture and gardens.

What's on here

DateEventDetails
January 2027
14–20 Jan 2027Date to be confirmedMotsu-ji Temple Hatsukayasai Festival

Getting There

Map: Getting to Motsu-ji. Legend: Tohoku Main Line; Ofunato Line; Tohoku Shinkansen. Labelled stations: Ichinoseki, Morioka, Sendai, Kitakami, Kesennuma, Hiraizumi.

Planning a trip? Fit this into a trip and Oni plans the rest around it.

At Hey Japan!, we strive to keep the places listed on our website as current as possible. However, location owners or management may alter opening times or modify admission requirements without prior notice. Check official websites before visiting.

Part ofBuddhismSpecial National Historic SiteTemplesUNESCO World Heritage Sites
TagsTemplesUNESCO World Heritage Sites
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