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🕓 2025/3/5
＃観光地
Table of Contents
- Chūson-ji Temple | World Heritage Site with the Glowing Konjikidō
- Ryūsendō Cave | One of Japan’s Three Great Limestone Caves
- Morioka Hachimangū Shrine | Iwate’s Historic Guardian Shrine
Top 3 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Iwate
— What is Iwate Prefecture? —
Iwate Prefecture is a beautiful and captivating region located in the Tōhoku area of Honshū, Japan. Known for its rich nature and unique history, Iwate is an attractive destination for international visitors. Historically referred to as Mutsu, the area flourished as a cultural hub of northern Japan under the rule of the Ōshū Fujiwara Clan, who developed the grandeur of Hiraizumi culture. Additionally, the region was shaped by the influence of two powerful feudal domains, the Morioka Domain and the Nanbu Domain, each fostering their own distinctive traditions and heritage.
Lastly, there is an intriguing local legend about a dog spirit in Iwate. While some say there is a mystical dog guardian, the actual character is Inugami, a spirit from local folklore. This legend adds a touch of humor and mystery to the region, making Iwate even more fascinating.
1. Chūson-ji Temple | A World Heritage Site with the Glowing Konjikidō
● The Appeal of Chūson-ji Temple
Chūson-ji Temple is a site of immense historical and cultural significance, offering deep insights into Japanese Buddhist architecture, craftsmanship, and the Pure Land philosophy of the Heian period. Its solemn atmosphere and breathtaking natural surroundings continue to attract worshippers and visitors alike. The temple is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the “Hiraizumi – Temples, Gardens, and Archaeological Sites Representing the Buddhist Pure Land.”
The most famous structure at Chūson-ji is the Konjikidō, a magnificent Amida Hall entirely covered in gold leaf, both inside and out. Inside, the remains of Fujiwara no Kiyohira, Fujiwara no Motohira, and Fujiwara no Hidehira are enshrined, showcasing the grandeur of the Ōshū Fujiwara clan.
Beyond Konjikidō, the temple grounds feature several other Important Cultural Properties, such as the Kyōzō (Sutra Repository) and the Hakusan Shrine Noh Stage. The Hakusan Shrine Noh Stage is particularly noteworthy as one of the oldest surviving Noh stages in Japan. Additionally, Chūson-ji is renowned for its seasonal beauty, offering cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, vibrant autumn foliage, and serene snow-covered landscapes in winter, making each visit a unique experience.
● The History of Chūson-ji Temple
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Chūson-ji Temple, a Tendai Buddhist temple located in Hiraizumi, Iwate Prefecture, is said to have been founded in 850 by Jikaku Daishi Ennin. In the early 12th century, Fujiwara no Kiyohira, the founder of the Ōshū Fujiwara clan, expanded the temple complex on a grand scale to commemorate those who perished in war and to recreate the Buddhist Pure Land on earth.
The famous Konjikidō was completed in 1124, entirely adorned in gold leaf, symbolizing the Pure Land paradise. Inside, the remains of Kiyohira, Motohira, and Hidehira rest, preserving the legacy of the Fujiwara family's prosperity. At its peak, Chūson-ji housed over 40 temple halls and 300 monks' quarters, making it a vast religious complex. However, in 1189, many of its structures were destroyed following an invasion by Minamoto no Yoritomo.
In 2011, Chūson-ji was officially inscribed as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Hiraizumi – Temples, Gardens, and Archaeological Sites Representing the Buddhist Pure Land.” It is now internationally recognized as one of the most significant Buddhist heritage sites in Japan.
● Access to Chūson-ji Temple
- Address: 202 Koromonoseki, Hiraizumi, Nishiiwai District, Iwate Prefecture, Japan
- Google Maps Lin: 中尊寺の地図
- Public Transportation:
From Ichinoseki Station (Shinkansen terminal): Take a local bus to Chūson-ji Bus Stop (approximately 25 minutes).
From Hiraizumi Station: Take a bus or walk to the temple.
From Chūson-ji Bus Stop, visitors must walk about 560 meters up Tsukimi-zaka, the long main approach leading to the main hall.
● The Appeal of Ryūsendō Cave
Ryūsendō Cave, located in Iwaizumi Town, Iwate Prefecture, is one of Japan’s three greatest limestone caves and has been designated as a National Natural Monument. Inside the cave, visitors can witness some of the clearest underground lakes in the world, captivating all who enter with their mystical beauty.
The currently confirmed length of the cave is approximately 4,088 meters, though only about 700 meters are open to the public. Even within this limited area, visitors can admire the breathtaking formations of stalactites and experience the stunningly clear, deep blue underground lakes up close.
A major highlight of the cave is its three underground lakes, with the Third Underground Lake reaching a depth of 98 meters. Due to its exceptional transparency and deep blue hue, it is often referred to as “Dragon Blue”. The cave maintains a stable temperature of around 10°C (50°F) year-round, making it a perfect summer retreat for visitors seeking a cool escape from the heat.
● The History of Ryūsendō Cave
Ryūsendō Cave, situated in Iwaizumi Town, Iwate Prefecture, is believed to have formed over 200 million years ago. The cave was gradually shaped by erosion from underground water, resulting in its present structure, which houses a series of enchanting underground lakes.
In 1938, Ryūsendō was officially designated as a National Natural Monument. Later, in 1967, a new cave known as Ryūsen Shindō (龍泉新洞) was discovered near the entrance, where numerous Jōmon-period artifacts were unearthed.
In 1968, exploration efforts were temporarily halted following an accident during a survey. However, interest in the cave was reignited after it was featured in an NHK documentary special, and it was subsequently recognized as one of Japan’s 100 Famous Water Sources ("Meisui Hyakusen").
In more recent years, Ryūsendō Cave suffered damage from both the Great East Japan Earthquake (2011) and Typhoon No. 10 in 2016. However, thanks to extensive restoration efforts, the cave remains one of Iwate’s most beloved natural attractions, continuing to draw visitors from all over the world.
● Access to Ryūsendō Cave
- Address: 1-1 Kaminari, Iwaizumi, Shimohei District, Iwate Prefecture, 027-0501, Japan
- Google Maps Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/HF3hSXg7hArYzrZ67
- Getting There:
The most convenient way to reach Ryūsendō Cave is by bus from Morioka Station.
For those traveling by car, train, or bus, please refer to the map for detailed route options.
3. Morioka Hachimangū Shrine | Iwate’s Prestigious Guardian Shrine
● The Appeal of Morioka Hachimangū Shrine
Morioka Hachimangū Shrine, located in Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture, is the most significant Shinto shrine in the region and is deeply revered by the local community. Its history dates back to 1062, when Minamoto no Yoriyoshi received a divided spirit from Iwashimizu Hachimangū Shrine in Kyoto and established the shrine to pray for victory in battle.
The current shrine building was reconstructed in 1997 and features a striking vermilion-lacquered main hall adorned with intricate, vividly colored carvings. This grand structure has become a symbol of Morioka, radiating a dignified presence.
The shrine grounds house 12 auxiliary and subordinate shrines, enshrining deities related to business prosperity, academic success, and daily well-being. Every year, from September 14th to 16th, the annual festival (Reitaisai) is held, featuring ornate festival floats and traditional horseback archery (Yabusame), attracting numerous visitors.
The shrine is also known for its beautiful seasonal landscapes, offering cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant autumn foliage in fall. As a center of regional traditions and cultural heritage, Morioka Hachimangū continues to be cherished by worshippers and visitors alike.
● The History of Morioka Hachimangū Shrine
Morioka Hachimangū Shrine, located in Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture, serves as the guardian shrine of the region. Its origins trace back to 1062, when Minamoto no Yoriyoshi prayed for victory against the Abe clan during the Former Nine Years' War (Zenkunen no Eki) and enshrined a divided spirit from Iwashimizu Hachimangū in Kyoto. Initially known as Hatonomori Hachimangū, the shrine was worshipped by the Hitobe clan, a powerful local family.
In 1593, when the Nanbu clan built Morioka Castle, the shrine was reconstructed as the guardian shrine of the castle grounds. Later, in 1680, Nanbu Shigenobu, the 29th lord of the Nanbu domain, enshrined a divided spirit from Kushibiki Hachimangū Shrine in Aomori, establishing the shrine in its current location under the name "Shin-Hachiman" (New Hachiman Shrine).
During the Meiji period, Hatonomori Hachimangū was merged with Shin-Hachiman, and in 1889, the nearby Hakusan Shrine was also incorporated into the shrine complex.
● Access to Morioka Hachimangū Shrine
- Address: 13-1 Hachiman-chō, Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture, Japan
- Google Maps Link: 盛岡八幡宮の地図
- Transportation:
From Morioka Station East Exit, take an Iwate Kenpoku Bus from Platform No. 5.
Get off at Hachimangū-mae or Sannōshita Bus Stop, then walk 5 minutes to the shrine.
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