平泉 (Hiraizumi) is a historic town located in Iwate Prefecture, Japan. It is known for its rich cultural heritage and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2011. The town flourished during the Heian period and served as a center for the Pure Land Buddhism movement. The most famous site in Hiraizumi is the Chūson-ji Temple, which houses the golden statue of Amitabha Buddha. Other notable attractions include the Mōtsū-ji Temple and the scenic gardens that reflect the beauty of traditional Japanese landscape design. Hiraizumi is a significant example of the cultural exchange between Japan and the Asian continent.