Kinkeisan is a small conic mountain in the relative center of Hiraizumi, between the temples of Motsu-ji and Chuson-ji. From the top, hikers are greeted with a panoramic view of the town.
Kinkeisan is considered a symbol of Hiraizumi and a key geographic feature around which the community was designed, laid out, and grown. In the 12th century, during the founding of Hiraizumi, it was a ritual site where holy objects were offered up and buried to watch over and protect Hiraizumi, including a golden rooster statue, according to folklore. Some of these artifacts have been excavated and are displayed at Motsu-ji Temple and the Tokyo National Museum.
VENUE DETAILS
- Access 1
- 6 minutes from Hiraizumi Station via RunRun loop bus (disembark at Yukyu no Yu), then 5 minute walk
- Access 2
- 10 minutes by rental cycle from Hiraizumi Station
- Access 3
- 10 minute drive from Hiraizumi-Maesawa Interchange