Chuzenji Temple
Chuzenji Temple (中禅寺, Chūzenji) is a large Buddhist temple on the eastern shore of Lake Chuzenji known for its six-meter-tall sculpture of the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy carved into a tree. The tree itself is registered as one of the National Cultural Properties of Japan. The temple, which dates back to 794 CE, is the 18th temple on the 33-temple Bando pilgrimage route, which covers a distance of 1,300 kilometers through the Kanto region.
The statue is famously known as the “Tachiki Kannon” because it was carved into a living Katsura tree while the roots remained in the earth. Beyond this unique centerpiece, the temple’s Godaido Hall offers one of the most celebrated vantage points in Nikko. From its elevated wooden balcony, visitors are treated to a panoramic view of Lake Chuzenji and the volcanic peak of Mount Nantai. This hall is dedicated to the five Great Wisdom Kings and features a striking dragon painting on its ceiling. As a sub-temple of the historic Rinno-ji complex, Chuzenji Temple remains a vital site for spiritual reflection, combining ancient wood-carving artistry with the rugged natural beauty of the surrounding national park. Its seasonal foliage, particularly the red maples in autumn, adds a further layer of appeal for those visiting the lake district.
| Visitor Information | |
|---|---|
| Address | 2578 Chugushi, Nikko, Tochigi 321-1661 (Google Maps) |
| Opening Hours | 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (Apr–Oct) / 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM (Mar & Nov) / 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM (Dec–Feb) Last entry 30 mins before closing. |
| Price | Adults: ¥500 / High School Students: ¥500 / Elementary & Junior High: ¥200 |
| Website | Visit Website |
| Access | ||
|---|---|---|
| Station / Stop | Line / Bus | Access Details |
| Nikko Station | Tobu Bus (Chuzenji Onsen Bound) | Take the bus to the Chuzenji Onsen stop (45 mins) and walk for 20 mins |
| Chuzenji Onsen | Sightseeing Bus | Transfer to the local loop bus and alight at the Chuzenji-mae stop (5 mins) |