Every year at Hiraizumi’s Chuson-ji Temple, the autumn foliage illumination “Kōyō Ginga” (Autumn Leaves Galaxy) is held.
We’ll introduce illumination information and the best time to view the autumn colors!
Please enjoy this along with photos of the autumn leaves from previous years.
★Hiraizumi is also recommended in winter! → A Winter Temple and Shrine Tour
When Is the Best Time to See the Autumn Foliage at Hiraizumi’s Chuson-ji Temple? What Kind of Foliage Can You Enjoy?
Registered as a World Heritage Site in 2011, Chuson-ji Temple is a venerable landmark that includes the Konjikido (Golden Hall), a symbol of Hiraizumi’s golden culture.
The tasteful temple grounds can be enjoyed through all four seasons, but the autumn foliage from late October onward is especially spectacular.


The autumn colors add vibrancy to the quiet, mystical atmosphere of the temple grounds.
The contrast between the historic architecture and the vivid autumn leaves has a wonderful charm.

Japanese maples (yamamomiji, irohamomiji) turning a deep red, among others.

Looking up, the overlapping autumn leaves are truly beautiful.

The illumination begins before sunset.
Lighting that brings out the blazing colors of the autumn leaves.


This event is called “Kōyō Ginga” (Autumn Leaves Galaxy).
With carefully devised lighting each year, you can enjoy an illumination different from the year before.

We recommend starting your stroll through the temple grounds in the evening, walking and worshipping among the sunlit autumn leaves, and finishing by enjoying this “Kōyō Ginga” illumination!

Here’s the “Kōyō Ginga 2021” at Chuson-ji and Visiting Information!
【Visiting Chuson-ji】
The temple grounds are open year-round
March 1 – November 3: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
November 4 – end of February: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
【Autumn Foliage Illumination】
Dates: Friday, October 29 – Sunday, November 14, 2021
Time: 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM
【Best Time to View Autumn Leaves】
It varies by year, but typically from late October to mid-November.
It seems to peak in early November.
Why Not Stay at BELLINO HOTEL for Your Autumn Foliage Stroll at Chuson-ji?
BELLINO HOTEL is about a 15-minute drive from Chuson-ji.
Our hotel also offers easy access to Genbi Gorge, Mt. Kurikoma, and other autumn foliage spots.
We offer many accommodation plans! → List of Accommodation Plans

◆Access by Car
The Chuson-ji parking lot is about a 15-minute drive from BELLINO HOTEL ICHINOSEKI.
◆Access by Bus
Iwate Kenko Bus, National Route South Line: “Ichinoseki Station” → “Chuson-ji-mae,” about 25 minutes
◆Access by Train
JR Tohoku Main Line: “Ichinoseki Station” → “Hiraizumi Station,” about 8 minutes
Hiraizumi Town Loop Bus “Run Run”: “Hiraizumi Station” → “Chuson-ji-mae,” about 10 minutes