Located in Hiraizumi, Iwate Prefecture, Chuson-ji Temple is one of the Tohoku region's most iconic historic sites and a renowned World Heritage Site in Japan. Walking along the approach through lush woods, the solemnity of the ancient temple intertwines with the tranquility of nature to create a unique atmosphere, making you feel as though you've stepped into a thousand years of history.
The most anticipated sight is Konjikido, or the Golden Hall. Decorated with lavish craftsmanship using gold leaf and mother-of-pearl inlay, it is exquisite and dazzling, and is Chuson-ji Temple's most precious cultural treasure. In addition to admiring the beauty of the architecture, you can experience the distinctive Zen atmosphere and tranquility of a Japanese temple amid the mountain forests as they change with the seasons.
When visiting Chuson-ji Temple, take your time and appreciate the traces of history woven together by the old trees, stone steps, and temple buildings. This is more than just a sightseeing trip; it's a cultural stroll through a thousand years of history.
Chuson-ji Temple | Review by 汪汪妮
Other Reviews by 汪汪妮
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Towada Shrine
Located on Nakayama Peninsula, which juts into Lake Towada, this ancient shrine is said to have been founded in 807 by Sakanoue no Tamuramaro, a shogun who enshrined Prince Yamato Takeru as a warrior deity. During the Edo period, Towada Shrine was revered alongside Mount Osore as one of the two great sacred sites of the region, flourishing as a place of ascetic practice.
Walking into Towada Shrine on the shores of Lake Towada in Aomori Prefecture feels like entering a mysterious place protected by the forest. Following the approach, towering cedar trees block the sunlight, the fresh scent of trees fills the air, and all you can hear is the wind blowing through the treetops, making you slow down without realizing it. Compared with typical bustling tourist attractions, Towada Shrine feels more secluded and solemn, which makes it even more memorable.
After climbing the stone steps, the old shrine buildings sit quietly deep in the forest. Their simple appearance blends into the surrounding natural scenery, revealing the distinctive, unspoiled beauty of northeastern Japan. Standing before the shrine and taking in the tranquility of the surrounding forest, it feels as though time itself has slowed down. After praying, returning to the shores of Lake Towada to admire the deep-blue water and mountain scenery gives you an even greater appreciation for the area's deep connection to nature and its culture of faith.
This visit to Towada Shrine wasn't flashy or lively, but it left me with profound and peaceful memories. If you're looking for a place to escape the noise of the city and experience Japan's ancient culture and natural beauty, Towada Shrine is definitely worth visiting in person. -
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Geibikei Gorge
Kitakami River runs through Iwate north to south and branches into a tributary, Satetsu River, where the gorge stands tall. Water erosion created this 50m-tall, 100m-long bluff dotted with bizarre rocks, caves and waterfalls. The divine scene is counted as one of the 100 Scenic Places in Japan and National Historical Spot and Scenic Beauty and Natural Monument.
What I looked forward to most when visiting Geibikei Gorge in Iwate Prefecture was riding a traditional boat and experiencing the magnificent scenery of this natural gorge firsthand. The small boat slowly traveled along the stream, with towering rock walls rising on both sides. Shaped over many years by wind, rain, and flowing water, the rocks have taken on all kinds of unusual forms. As the boatman skillfully worked the oar, everything around us felt especially peaceful, with only the murmur of the water and the sound of the oar cutting through the surface.
Along the way, the boatman introduced the scenery and legends of the area, adding some fun to the otherwise tranquil valley. As the boat went deeper into the gorge, looking up at the towering cliffs on both sides made me feel the grandeur of nature and how small I was. Especially on a clear day, sunlight fills the valley, and the greenery and rock walls reflected on the water are so beautiful that it's hard to look away.
The Geibikei Gorge boat ride wasn't rushed, giving me a chance to truly slow down and quietly enjoy the scenery. Though it was only a short trip, it left me with very vivid travel memories and showed me the unique charm of Tohoku's natural landscapes. -
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Matsushima
One of Three Great Views of Japan along with Kyoto’s Amanohashidate and Hiroshima’s Miyajima. The grand horizon of the Pacific Ocean and large and small 260 verdant islands have been attracting many visitors since the Heian Period.
Stepping into Matsushima, a seascape resembling a painting unfolds before your eyes. Islands of various sizes dot the deep blue sea, their lush pine trees blending with the sky and water to create a unique and peaceful beauty. Cruising among the islands, you can admire unusual rock formations, green islands, and shimmering waves from different angles, taking in scenery sculpted by nature over thousands of years. As you stroll along the shore with the breeze gently brushing by, the hustle and bustle of the city seems to fade away. Matsushima is not only one of Japan’s Three Great Views, but also a place to slow down and savor every moment. This trip left me with more than just beautiful photos—it also gave me unforgettable memories of the bay.
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