Journey to the Eternal Golden Paradise - Chusonji Konjikido

Preserving its brilliance from 900 years ago, Konjikido Golden Hall continues to captivate visitors from around the world. As the centerpiece of the "Hiraizumi – Temples, Gardens and Archaeological Sites Representing the Buddhist Pure Land," inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2011, this structure stands as the pinnacle of Japanese Buddhist art and a miraculous architectural achievement that embodies the finest craftsmanship of the Heian period.

The Historical Tale Told by Konjikido

Built in 1124 (Tenji 1) by Fujiwara no Kiyohira, the founder of the Northern Fujiwara clan, Konjikido was created to guide the souls of all who perished in the long wars of the Tohoku region to the Pure Land Paradise. Kiyohira, having lost his family to warfare, overcame his grief and aspired to realize a peaceful Pure Land world in this region.

Despite being a small building measuring only 5.5 meters square and 8 meters in height, its interior and exterior are entirely covered in gold leaf, preserving the magnificent appearance known as "Kai-konjiki" (all golden) to this day. Within the hall, the remains of Kiyohira, along with the second lord Motohira, third lord Hidehira, and fourth lord Yasuhira, are enshrined in golden coffins where they rest to this day.

Stunning Decorative Arts

The greatest attraction of Konjikido lies in its decorations, which represent the culmination of late Heian period craftsmanship. The hall features mother-of-pearl inlay work using luminous shells brought from the South Seas via the Silk Road, decorations with ivory and precious stones, lacquer work with gold designs, and openwork metal fittings - all utilizing the finest techniques and most luxurious materials of the time without restraint.

At the center of the altar platform sits Amida Nyorai (Amitabha Buddha), accompanied by Kannon and Seishi Bodhisattvas, six Jizo Bodhisattvas, and the guardian deities Jikokuten and Zochoten in a unique Buddhist statue arrangement found nowhere else. This ensemble of Buddhist statues tells the story of Kiyohira's earnest desire to concretely express the world of Pure Land Paradise.

Miraculous State of Preservation

Remarkably, approximately 90% of Konjikido's structure and materials remain original even after nearly 900 years since its construction. The hall miraculously escaped the fires of war during the fall of Hiraizumi in 1189, and has been preserved to this day through the protection of successive rulers and temple monks. Currently, it is protected within a glass case inside a reinforced concrete shelter, carefully maintained in a controlled temperature and humidity environment.

Access and Surrounding Environment

Transportation Access

From Tokyo: Approximately 2 hours 20 minutes to Ichinoseki Station via Tohoku Shinkansen, then about 10 minutes to Hiraizumi Station on JR Tohoku Main Line

From Sendai: Approximately 32 minutes to Ichinoseki Station via Tohoku Shinkansen, then about 10 minutes to Hiraizumi Station

By car: About 10 minutes from Hiraizumi-Maesawa IC on Tohoku Expressway

Nearby Attractions

The Chusonji temple complex where Konjikido is located offers numerous attractions including the Sutra Repository (National Treasure), Main Hall, and Sankōzō (treasure hall). Other World Heritage sites are also within walking distance:

Motsuji Temple: Features a stunning Pure Land garden centered around Oizumi Pond. Designated as both a Special Historic Site and Special Place of Scenic Beauty

Kanjizaion-in Temple Ruins: Temple ruins built by Motohira's wife, with restored Pure Land gardens

Muryoko-in Temple Ruins: Temple ruins modeled after Kyoto's Byodoin Phoenix Hall

Culinary Experiences

Hiraizumi offers unique culinary culture to enjoy:

Moridashi-style Wanko Soba: Hiraizumi-style wanko soba that you can enjoy at your own pace

Mochi Cuisine: Rice cake dishes with various flavors like zunda, anko, and walnut. Experience a 400-year-old mochi food culture

Maesawa Beef: Restaurants serving Iwate's premium brand beef are also plentiful

The Truth Behind the Golden Country of Zipangu

There is a theory that the legend of "Zipangu, the Golden Country" conveyed by Marco Polo in the 13th century originated from this Konjikido. Upon seeing the dazzling golden interior of the hall, this theory becomes quite convincing.

Built during the mature period of Heian Buddhist art, Konjikido transcends being merely a building - it can be said to be the crystallization of Japan's spiritual culture and aesthetic sensibility. The prayers for peace of people who lived through times of war, their yearning for Pure Land Paradise, and the souls of craftsmen who pursued the highest techniques and beauty continue to live on within the golden radiance.