Step into a world of serene beauty and spiritual harmony at Motsuji Temple (毛越寺), one of Japan’s most significant UNESCO World Heritage sites in Hiraizumi. Once a massive monastic complex rivaling the greatest temples of Kyoto, Motsuji is now world-renowned for its perfectly preserved Pure Land Garden (Jodo Teien). This 12th-century masterpiece represents a Buddhist vision of paradise on earth. Anchored by the sprawling Oizumi-ga-ike pond, the temple grounds offer a rare glimpse into Heian-period aesthetics, featuring elegant “winding streams” (yarimizo) and ancient foundation stones that tell the story of the powerful Oshu Fujiwara clan.
What to See at Motsuji Temple
- Sanmon Gate (山門)
- The Pure Land Garden (浄土庭園)
- Hondō Hall (本堂)
- Kaisandō Hall (開山堂)
- Jōgyōdō Hall (常行堂)
- Festivals and Events at Motsuji Temple
To fully appreciate Motsuji Temple, allocate at least 40 minutes to an hour here (‘ω’)ノ.
Tips:
☛ You can also spend a night at Hiraizumi. Hiraizumi Hotel Musashibou is a nice option. The hotel provides free pick-up and drop-off service.
☛ Get an Audio Guide to make the most out of your visit to Hiraizumi.
Explore Hiraizumi With a Guided Tour
If you prefer a guide to introduce you to the historical town, consider joining one of the following tours.
- Hiraizumi Half-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
- Hiraizumi Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
Sanmon Gate (山門)
Motsuji Temple’s front gate isn’t just another traditional gate. Although it looks rather ordinary, the Sanmon Gate was originally the front gate of Ichinoseki Castle!
The gate was only relocated to its current location in 1921. Where the guards were stationed is now the ticket office.
The Pure Land Garden (浄土庭園)
Soon after you pass the Sanmon Gate, the Pure Land Garden is on your right-hand side. It was designed imagining the Pure Land described in the Buddhist sutra. With this beautiful scenery in front of you, surely your heart is purified already!
The strolling garden is centred on the huge Oizumi-ga-ike Pond (大泉が池). Apparently, there were bridges connecting the south gate and the main worship hall with the small islands in the pond. While the bridges are gone now, you can still admire the scenic garden from the shore.
Motsuji Temple’s Pureland Garden is most stunning when the vibrant fall color and blue sky are reflected on the pond in late October to early November each year!
Hondō Hall (本堂): Main Hall
The main hall was built back in AD 850 by Jikaku Daishi (慈覚大師). Like the Chūsonji Temple, the hall we see today was also rebuilt after it was burnt down.
The main Buddha here is the Healing Buddha (Yakushi Nyorai, 薬師如来). Worshipping him is said to bring you health and the cure of illness.
The reason the main Buddha is Yakushi Nyorai is the Legend of Motsuji’s founding. It is said that the incarnation of the healing Buddha guided Jikaku Daishi, who erected the Motsuji Temple here. You can find more details on their official website HERE.
Kaisandō Hall (開山堂)
At the far end of the temple’s grounds, you will find this gorgeous building. It is a hall commemorating the founder of the Motsuji Temple, Jikaku Daishi.
Jōgyōdō Hall (常行堂)
At Jōgyōdō Hall, you can worship the Amida Buddha as well as the four bodhisattvas. And if you are really lucky, you will also be able to meet the hidden Deity, Matarajin.
The temple only opens up to the back of the hall, where Matarajin is exhibited to the public every 33 years. He is not only a God who looks after the area’s harvest but also protects the Buddhist praxis and halls!
In front of the Jōgyōdō Hall, there is a bell tower. With 500 yen, you can write your wishes on a wooden plate and offer them to the Buddhas and Matarajin. The small ritual ends with you joining your hands together to show your appreciation and ring the bell (^_-)-☆.
Festivals and Events at Motsuji Temple
There are several festivals and events held at Motsuji Temple throughout the year. Most of the events involve rich cultural elements. So if you happen to travel to Iwate Prefecture around those dates, you will probably want to plan your visit to Hiraizumi accordingly (=ﾟωﾟ)ﾉ.
Click HERE to access Motsuji Temple’s official events calendar!
It is also probably worthwhile to note that the temple does offer the two experiences below, though they usually require at least 10 people and advance booking.
- Sitting meditation
- Copying a Buddhist sutra using calligraphy
Dining at Motsuji Temple
If you are after some traditional Japanese cuisine or sweets, visit the Shōfuan Restaurant (松風庵) at Motsuji Temple! You can refer to HERE for their menu to plan your visit ahead. We have confirmed with the temple that the broth does not contain animal-derived ingredients!
Motsuji Temple’s Opening Hours, Admission Fee, and Access Information
- Motsuji Temple is open from
- 8:30 am to 5 pm between March 5 and November 4
- 8:30 am to 4:30 pm from November 5 to March 4
- The admission fee is
- 700 yen for adults
- 400 yen for senior high school students
- 200 yen for elementary and junior high school students
Audio guides are available to borrow from the Hiraizumi Tourism Association. The rental fee is 500 yen.
You can also hire an interpreter/guide. For more information, refer to Iwate Hiraizumi Interpreters & Guides Association HERE.
Explore Other Astonishing Temples in Hiraizumi
Discover why this tranquil town, easily accessible via the Tohoku Shinkansen, remains an essential stop for those seeking Japan’s hidden golden age. Established in the 12th century by the powerful Oshu Fujiwara clan, Hiraizumi was designed as a physical manifestation of the Buddhist Pure Land. In addition to Chusonji, be sure to visit other stunning attractions in the small town!
To find out about other great attractions in the town, refer to our article on Hiraizumi!
