Takkoku-no-Iwaya Bishamondō: A Sacred Gem in Hiraizumi
Discover the serene beauty and rich heritage of Takkoku-no-Iwaya Bishamondō, a stunning cliffside Buddhist temple in Hiraizumi, Japan.
Nestled in the tranquil hills of Hiraizumi, Takkoku-no-Iwaya Bishamondō is a stunning Buddhist temple carved into a cliffside, offering visitors a unique glimpse into Japan's spiritual heritage and breathtaking natural scenery. This UNESCO World Heritage site invites tourists to explore its ancient relics, beautiful gardens, and serene atmosphere, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking both cultural enrichment and natural beauty.
A brief summary to Takkoku-no-iwaya bishamondō
- Hiraizumi, Kitazawa−16, Hiraizumi, Kitazawa Hiraizumi, Nishiiwai District, Iwate, 029-4102, JP
- +81191-46-4931
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
- Thursday 8 am-5 pm
- Friday 8 am-5 pm
- Saturday 8 am-5 pm
- Sunday 8 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter experience and catch the beautiful morning light.
- Take time to walk around the gardens for a more immersive experience in nature.
- Be respectful during worship hours; observe silence and avoid disruptive behavior.
- Don't forget your camera – the views and architecture are stunning!
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car, take the Tohoku Expressway and head towards Hiraizumi. Exit at the Hiraizumi IC and follow the signs for Hiraizumi Town. Drive along Route 4 for approximately 10 minutes until you reach the intersection with Route 282. Turn left onto Route 282, and after about 5 minutes, you will see signs for Takkoku-no-iwaya bishamondō. The parking area is located nearby, and the entrance fee is 500 yen per person.
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Public Transportation
To reach Takkoku-no-iwaya bishamondō using public transportation, start by taking a train to Hiraizumi Station, which is accessible via the Tohoku Shinkansen. From Hiraizumi Station, take the local bus (approximately 20 minutes). Board the bus heading towards 'Takkoku-no-iwaya' or 'Kitazawa.' Ensure to check the bus schedule for the latest timings. The bus will drop you off near Takkoku-no-iwaya bishamondō. There is a small entrance fee of 500 yen per person.
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Taxi
If you prefer a more convenient option, you can take a taxi from Hiraizumi Station directly to Takkoku-no-iwaya bishamondō. The taxi ride takes about 15 minutes and will cost approximately 2,000 to 3,000 yen depending on traffic conditions. Remember to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
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