Motsuji Temple

Map

History & Origins

It is said to have been opened in 850 (the 3rd year of Kasho) by Jikaku Daishi Ennin, but it later fell into ruin for a time. In the late Heian period the Oshu Fujiwara clan, over three generations of Kiyohira, Motohira and Hidehira, developed a large temple complex, which at its height became a great temple with over 40 halls and pagodas and over 500 monks' quarters. Many buildings were lost after the fall of the Oshu Fujiwara clan, but the Pure Land garden still conveys its former appearance.

Highlights

The Pure Land garden, designated a Special Historic Site and Special Place of Scenic Beauty, is the greatest highlight. Centered on Oizumi-ga-ike Pond, it offers varied scenery of an island, a pebble beach, a rocky shore and a promontory, with beautiful views through all four seasons. The 'Hatsuka Yasai (Jogyodo Matarajin Festival)' of Motsuji, held each January, is designated a nationally Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property.

Visitor Guide

The nearest station is Hiraizumi Station on the JR Tohoku Main Line, about a 9-minute walk. Admission is 700 yen for adults. Hours are 8:30-17:00 from April 5 to November 4 and 8:30-16:30 from November 5 to April 4. Allow about 1 hour to stroll the garden at leisure. Visiting together with nearby Chusonji is recommended.

Best Season

The garden is colored through the seasons: yama-tsutsuji azaleas in spring, irises and lotus flowers in summer, and autumn foliage in autumn. During the 'Ayame Festival' in late May, colorful iris flowers bloom in competition along the shore of Oizumi-ga-ike Pond.

Blessings

Annual Events

• January

  Hatsukayo Matsuri of Motsuji Temple (Jogyodo Matarajin Festival)

  An Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan, held on January 20. Rites in the ancient style, including the Ennen dance, are dedicated.

• May

  Spring Fujiwara Festival (Haru no Fujiwara Matsuri)

  A festival remembering the glory of the Oshu Fujiwara clan. Motsuji Temple serves as the venue as a place honoring Lord Yoshitsune, and a warrior procession and other events are held.

• June

  Ayame Matsuri (Iris Festival)

  A festival held to coincide with the blooming of about 30,000 irises of about 300 varieties on the shore of Oizumi ga Ike Pond. Visitors can enjoy the flowers in a serene atmosphere.

Travel Plan

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