scattered settlement

Ungiwaji Temple

Ungai-ji Temple was founded by Jikaku Daishi Ennin in 850, and was a branch temple of the mountain temple that was the predecessor of Chuson-ji Temple in Sekizan of the Tendai sect. 　In 1186, when Minamoto no Yoshitsune descended to Oshu Hiraizumi with his twelve followers and his wife Kitanokata, this temple was rebuilt by Kitanokata. After his defeat, the tablets of Yoshitsune and Kitanokata were enshrined by Zuishin priests. 　The temple was destroyed by fire in 2008. The building was rebuilt, but a replica of the tablets is on display in the History Fureaikan.

Tateyama Historical Park (Iwayado Castle Honmaru Ruins)

This is the site of the castle of a powerful family that ruled this area from ancient times. It is said to have been the site of a fortress built by Fujiwara no Tsuneakiyo and his son Kiyohira in the late Heian period. An octagonal hall building and Niseiin Temple (where Buddhist statues are preserved) were erected to commemorate the great deeds of the father and son, Tsuneakiyo and Kiyohira. Visitors can enjoy the seasonal scenery of cherry blossoms, hydrangeas, and maple trees. Niseiin Temple is usually closed. It is opened twice a year (May and August).

Meigosawa old tiles excavated ruins

Many tiles from the early Heian period, the same as those at Izawa Castle, have been unearthed, and it has been designated as a historic site by Iwate Prefecture. It is also said to be the ruins of the ancient mythical castle, Kakubetsu Castle.