One of the main reasons people visit Hiraizumi, this temple complex is spread across a forested hillside and connected by a pleasant walking path lined with towering cedar trees. Along the way, you’ll pass several halls, smaller temples, viewpoints, and historical buildings, making it feel more like a collection of sites than a single temple.

The most famous building is the Konjikidō (Golden Hall), which is housed inside a protective museum building and requires an admission ticket. The same ticket also includes entry to the temple’s museum and several other buildings. Even if you don’t purchase a ticket, much of the temple complex and the forested walking route can still be explored for free.

*Keep in mind that the grounds are quite large. Depending on your pace and whether you visit the paid areas, it’s easy to spend 1–2 hours here.

The location linked here marks the main entrance to the temple complex. If you’re arriving by car, this is also where you’ll enter the main parking area. You’ll also find several restaurants, souvenir shops, and other facilities clustered around this entrance.