Guide
The Hiraizumi Cultural Heritage Center serves as a premier guidance facility designed to introduce the rich history of the Hiraizumi World Heritage site. Through a sophisticated blend of panels, video, and physical artifacts, visitors can gain a profound understanding of this historic region. A centerpiece of the center is the "Reviving the Space-Time of Hiraizumi" exhibit, which utilizes a detailed 3D terrain model combined with synchronized video and audio to bring the ancient landscape to life. To ensure an inclusive experience for international travelers, the center provides audio guides available in four different languages.
The center functions as a reference hub for those interested in the history and archaeological findings related to Hiraizumi. The exhibits are organized chronologically, guiding visitors through the evolution of the region. You can view various historical artifacts and excavated items found within the town, which serve as vital evidence of the area's significant cultural legacy and its status as a World Heritage site.
At the entrance, visitors are greeted by informative panels about Hiraizumi's heritage and displays such as the Chuson-ji Lotus specimens. The main exhibition hall features the immersive 3D terrain model display. One of the most unique offerings is the VR (Virtual Reality) scope rental service. By using these scopes at specific viewpoints, you can experience reconstructed views of the past, such as the sites of Muryokoji Temple, Yanagi no Gosho ruins, the grand avenues of Kesen-ji, and the original landscape of Mt. Kokei during the Heian period.
The center is open year-round, but please note that closing times change depending on the season:
Note: The center is closed during the New Year holidays (December 29 to January 3) and during scheduled exhibition replacement periods.
The Fureai Hall is a multi-purpose space that occasionally hosts special events using a stage and large screen. For a truly immersive experience, you can rent a VR scope (reservation required) to witness a high-definition reconstruction of the Heian-period landscape at designated viewing points. VR scope rentals are available between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM.
The center is the perfect starting point for your journey through Hiraizumi. Many other World Heritage-related historical sites and monuments are scattered throughout the surrounding area, making it easy to explore the region's history after your visit.