Chusonji

The monk Ennin (794-864) traveled to Tohoku around 829 to spread Tendai Buddhism, a sect built on the idea that anyone can achieve enlightenment. He founded both Chusonji and Motsuji during this journey. Centuries later, the Oshu Fujiwara clan developed Chusonji into a major Tendai center, using it as the religious foundation for their vision of Hiraizumi as a city governed by Buddhist principles. Until Chusonji's establishment, the older Hosso sect dominated Tohoku's temples. The Konjikido Golden Hall at Chusonji, a National Treasure, remains one of the finest examples of Heian-period Buddhist art in Japan and draws visitors year-round.