This superb temple was first erected in the 9C. Date Masamune then rebuilt it in the 17C, bringing in the Kano school's greatest craftsmen and artists, to serve as a residence and place of worship. Note in particular the Jyodan no ma (a room reserved exclusively for the daimyo), the sumptuous ornaments of the Kairo (corridor) and the impressive Kuri (kitchen). The nightingale floors show how mistrustful the lord was: their extremely supple wood reacted to the lightest step, alerting him to the presence of any intruders. Outside, a lovely cedar walkway that leads to the building is in keeping with the magnificence of the site. Following the earthquakes and tsunami of March 11 2011 and the ensuing nuclear accidents, we recommend you consult the National Tourist Office of Japan: http://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/index.html