Looking to explore Japan beyond the usual tourist spots?
Welcome to Ichinoseki, a charming rural city in the heart of Tōhoku, just a short train ride from Sendai or Morioka. Here, centuries-old culture meets stunning nature—with far fewer crowds.
Over 900 years ago, the Ōshū Fujiwara clan ruled from nearby Hiraizumi, now home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Chūson-ji Temple. The spiritual energy of that golden age still lingers in the quiet shrines and villages across the region.
In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the must-see spots that capture the essence of Ichinoseki and Hiraizumi—including temples, river gorges, local cuisine, and even a Pokémon train.
Chūson-ji: Where Heaven Meets Earth
Founded in 850 CE, Chūson-ji flourished under the Fujiwara clan in the 12th century.
The crown jewel is Konjikidō, the Golden Hall, built to recreate the Buddhist paradise on earth—entirely covered in gold and adorned with mother-of-pearl and precious gems.
In 2011, Chūson-ji and other temples in Hiraizumi were registered as UNESCO sites for their unique spiritual vision.
🕒 Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM (until 4:30 PM from Nov–Feb)
💴 Admission: ¥1,000 for adults
Web site : https://www.chusonji.or.jp/language_en/index.html
📸 Note: The Golden Hall is inside a protective structure, and photography is not allowed inside.
Mōtsū-ji: Garden Temple of Stillness
A short walk from Chūson-ji is Mōtsū-ji, once a massive temple complex and now home to a beautifully preserved Pure Land garden.
Relax by the large central pond surrounded by seasonal flowers. The peaceful atmosphere is perfect for reflection after a temple visit.
🕒 Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM (until 4:30 PM from Nov–Feb)
💴 Admission: ¥700
Web site : https://www.motsuji.or.jp/en/
🚶♀️ Access: 10 min walk from Hiraizumi Station, or 20 min from Chūson-ji.
Explore Ichinoseki, Iwate – a lesser-known destination filled with hidden temples, rustic countryside, and easy access to Hiraizumi’s World Heritage Sites.Geibikei Gorge: Drift Between Giant Cliffs
Geibikei is one of Japan’s 100 top scenic spots.
Hop on a traditional boat and glide through a river gorge with cliffs rising 100 meters high on both sides.
The boat ride is calm and poetic, especially in autumn. The boatman sings folk songs as you float by rock formations shaped like lions, dragons, and more.
🛶 Ride Time: 90 min round-trip
💴 Fare: ¥2,000 adults / ¥1,000 children
🚉 Access: 30 min train from Ichinoseki Station to Geibikei Station
Web Site(Japanese only) : http://www.geibikei.co.jp/funakudari/
❄️ Winter bonus: Ride a “kotatsu boat” with heated blankets!
Genbikei Gorge: Nature’s Raw Power
Unlike Geibikei’s serenity, Genbikei is fast and wild.
Raging waters cut through stone, forming deep gorges, bridges, and scenic viewpoints.
Don’t miss the famous “Flying Dango”—sweet dumplings delivered by zipline across the gorge!
🚌 Access: 20 min by bus from Ichinoseki Station
💴 Fare: ¥520 (cash only)
Pokémon with You Train: A Ride for Every Trainer
If you’re a Pokémon fan, don’t miss the Pokémon with You Train, operating between Ichinoseki and Kesennuma.
Themed interiors, play areas, and rare character designs make this a joyful ride—especially for families.
(Full guide coming soon!)
Taste Local Tradition at Sekinoichi Brewery
Ichinoseki is also known for its sake and mochi culture.
At Sekinoichi Brewery, you can sample award-winning sake and Iwate Kura Beer brewed with local rice and mountain water.
🍱 Try This:
Kahō Mochi Set – 10 flavors of mochi, from sweet red bean to shrimp and walnut
Te-nobe Hatto – Soft, hand-stretched dumplings in savory broth
🕒 Restaurant Hours: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
📍 Location: 10 min walk from Ichinoseki Station
Web Site : https://sekinoichi.co.jp/cuisine/
How to Get to Ichinoseki
By Shinkansen – Fastest Option
Take the Tōhoku Shinkansen (Yamabiko or Hayabusa) from Tokyo Station.
🕒 About 2–2.5 hours
💴 Around ¥10,000–12,000
🎫 Covered by Japan Rail Pass
By Bus – Budget Option
🕒 6–7 hours from Tokyo
💴 ¥4,000–6,000
🚌 Limited daily service; check drop-off points in advance
Local Tips for Travelers
Language
Basic English is understood at main attractions, but not during boat rides or in local eateries.
📱 Tip: Bring a translation app like Google Translate (offline version).
Payments
✅ Major sites accept credit cards and online bookings.
💴 Carry cash for small restaurants and buses (IC cards not always accepted).
Ready to Discover the Real Japan?
From golden temples to silent gorges, Ichinoseki and Hiraizumi offer a side of Japan that’s rarely seen—deep, beautiful, and refreshingly slow.
Whether you’re into nature, history, food, or anime, there’s something magical waiting here just off the beaten path.
🧳 Plan your trip today, and let Tōhoku surprise you.