In June 2011, the structures and artifacts of Hiraizumi, a town in earthquake-devastated Iwate Prefecture, were collectively declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The jewel in this crown is the Buddhist temple Chusonji. Its gleaming, golden Konjikido worship hall is one of Japan's first official National Treasures. The temple complex encompasses many buildings and examples of art and craft from nearly 1,000 years ago. These precious cultural treasures have been carefully preserved with the help of occasional restorations by Japan's foremost artisans. On this edition of BEGIN Japanology, our theme is the Buddhist temple Chusonji. We explore the treasures that have recently earned Chusonji recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and meet the people who preserve the temple's long-standing traditions.
