National Treasure: Shiramizu Amida Hall

Built in the first year of Eiryaku (1160) in the late Heian period, this hall is said to have been commissioned by Toku-hime, wife of the warrior Norimichi Iwaki, to pray for her husband’s repose. With few Heian-period Amida halls still standing, it is a rare structure that preserves its original appearance and is the only National Treasure in Fukushima Prefecture. Inside are five Buddhist statues, including the Amida Triad (an Important Cultural Property of Japan) and the guardian kings Jikoku-ten and Tamon-ten.

The Pure Land garden surrounding the hall is also stunning. Following a popular Heian-period garden style, a pond encircles the buildings. Seasonal blooms, including plum blossoms in March, yamazakura (wild mountain cherry) in April, and irises in May, bring changing scenery throughout the year. Especially beautiful is the pairing with lotus flowers, which are at their best from mid-July to mid-August.

During the fall foliage season, the grounds are lit up. The hall, framed by vivid red and yellow leaves, glows in the light, creating a dreamlike view.