Chuzenji Temple
Chuzenji Temple (中禅寺, Chūzenji) stands on the eastern bank of Lake Chuzenjiko, which was named after the temple. Chuzenji's main object of worship is a six meter tall statue of Kannon, the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy. The statue is unique for being carved out of a tree which is still rooted into the ground today.
The second story of the temple complex houses a rare assembly of all five Buddhist Deva Kings (Myo-o). The hall's ceiling sports a giant painting of a white dragon by the same artist who painted the "Crying Dragon" at Toshogu Shrine. The ceiling of the inner chamber is coffered and decorated with paintings of over a hundred flower varieties found around Nikko. From the veranda, visitors can enjoy beautiful views over Lake Chuzenjiko.
Access
On foot
Chuzenji Temple is a 20 minute walk from the Chuzenjiko Onsen bus terminal.
By bus
From Chuzenjiko Onsen, take a bus to Tachikikannon-mae bus stop (立木観音前, 3 minutes, 150 yen one way) a few steps from Chuzenjiko Temple. From April through June, buses are bound for Utagahama Yuransen Hatchakujo (歌が浜遊覧船発着所) and run 2-3 times per hour. From July to mid November, buses are bound for Hangetsuyama (半月山) and run about once per hour. There is no bus service from mid November to March.
How to get to and around Nikko
Hours and Fees
Hours
8:00 to 16:00 (March and November)
8:30 to 15:30 (December to February)
Admission ends 30 minutes before closing
Closed
Admission
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