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 bound for Hangetsuyama (半月山) to Tachikikannon-Yuransenhachakujo bus stop (立木観音・遊覧船発着所, 5 minutes, 170 yen one way, one bus/hour) which is a few steps from Chuzenjiko Temple. Note that the buses do not run from mid November to mid May.
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
Questions? Ask in our forum.
Hotels around Nikko
