Chusonji Temple
During the Heian Period, the Fujiwara were the most powerful clan in Japan. In 1105, Hiraizumi was chosen as the seat of the "Northern branch" of the Fujiwara family. The city steadily grew in cultural sophistication and political power, so that it even came to rival Kyoto, the national capital.
In 1189, however, Hiraizumi was razed by Minamoto Yoritomo, the man who would soon after become Japan's first shogun. Yoritomo was looking for his brother and rival Yoshitsune, who was being given refuge by the local Fujiwara leader. The city never recovered its former prominence, but it still features some of the Tohoku Region's most precious historic and cultural properties.
Because of Hiraizumi's historical significance and cultural properties, there has been a concerted campaign in the area for recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is reflected in the care that is taken in presenting Hiraizumi's attractions, which visitors will surely appreciate.
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Hiraizumi's most famous temple.
Memorial dedicated to Minamoto Yoshitsune.
