Môtsû-ji 毛越寺

Tendai Buddhist temple

japanischer Tempel

Hiraizumi City

In the 12th century, towards the end of the Heian period (794–1185 / 794–1192), the largest temple complex in the north was located here. The current site of Môtsû-ji refers to the historical surroundings in which the remains of the temples still exist. Only the paradise garden Jôdo-teien on the grounds of Môtsû-ji – as well as the Golden Hall in the temple Chûson-ji – remain as a testimony to those glorious times. In 1689, the haiku poet MATSUO Bashô also visited the once magnificent site. In 2011, UNESCO declared the temple a World Heritage Site.