Preview Hiraizumi's History with Models and Videos—The Starting Point for Your World Heritage Tour
About this spot
A municipal guidance facility that introduces the history and culture of Hiraizumi through models, videos, and artifacts from excavation surveys. You can learn together about the steps of golden culture built over three generations by the Ōshū Fujiwara clan—Kiyohira, Motohira, and Hideihara—and discover the highlights of the various heritage sites that comprise the world heritage "Hiraizumi," including Chūson-ji Temple and Mōtsū-ji Temple. Visiting first will deepen the meaning of what you see during the subsequent temple visits. The exhibits are presented in an approachable way for both children and grandparents' generation, and admission is free, which is wonderful. Positioned between Chūson-ji Temple and Mōtsū-ji Temple, it's easy to incorporate into your route, making it the ideal starting point for a world heritage walk where three generations can share Hiraizumi's story before setting out.
Tips
About a 15-minute walk from JR Tōhoku Main Line Hiraizumi Station; the town's shuttle bus "Runrun" also has a stop here. With a car, free parking is available, and the building has few steps, so it's safe even with grandparents. The exhibition volume is compact, making it perfect as a morning warm-up.
Best time to visit
Approximately 45 minutes. Early morning just after opening is quiet and perfect for previewing your day.
Access & map
〒029-4102 Iwate Prefecture, Nishi-Iwai District, Hiraizumi Town, Hiraizumi Hanadachi 44
Model course featuring this spot

Hiraizumi: World Heritage Walking Tour of Konjikudō at Chūson-ji Temple and Mōtsū-ji Temple
Iwate
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