Perched on the eastern shores of its namesake lake in Nikko, Chuzen-ji Temple (中禅寺) is a profound spiritual landmark that serves as a testament to the enduring nature of faith. Situated at chugushi, Nikko National Park, Tochigi prefecture its about 180 Km away from Central Tokyo. Founded in 784 CE by the ascetic monk Shodo Shonin , the temple is an integral part of the Nikkosan Rinno-ji complex and sits at the base of the sacred Stratovolcano Mount Nantai. The Temple has serene view of beside the Lake Chuzen-ji. Chuzen-ji is a popular stop on the Bando 33 Kannon Pilgrimage (18th station) and is especially vibrant during the autumn leaf season in late October. p-85
You can take a look on my previous writing regarding other Temple and Shrine.
1. Shibarare Jizo a Rope Tied Up Statue
2. 5 Local Guides Voyage Accounts of Mt. Fuji Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine
3. Senso Temple-Tokyos oldest sacred site
The Miracle of the Tachiki Kannon
The temple’s heart is the Tachiki Kannon , a magnificent six-meter-tall statue of the eleven-faced, thousand-armed Goddess of Mercy.
Carved from Life: Legend says Shodo Shonin saw a vision of the Kannon above Lake Chuzenji and carved the statue directly from the trunk of a living katsura tree , which remained rooted in the ground. This “standing tree” (tachiki) origin gives the statue its name.
A Miraculous Survival: In 1902, a devastating landslide and tsunami swept the original temple buildings and the statue into the lake. Miraculously, the wooden Kannon floated to the surface and washed ashore three days later, completely unharmed. The temple was rebuilt on the site where the goddess was found.
We have started our journey from Katsushika city, Tokyo a 12’C. We have drive more than 150 km we took the highway, experienced the roadside view. We took a break at highway parking. Had little bit of snacks. When we have entered in Touchigi prefecture the temperature was decreasing to 4’C. In the freezing weather we have Just loved the long drive. We have parked the got the tickets and entered on the ancient historical landmark.
Key Highlights & Architecture
The temple complex offers more than just its central statue; it is a rich tapestry of Buddhist art and panoramic views.
Niomon Gates
The entrance is guarded by two fierce Nio deities, painted in brilliant crimson to ward off evil spirits from the sacred grounds.
Godaido Hall
Located on the hillside above the main hall, it enshrines the Five Wisdom Kings. It is famous for its ceiling painting of a powerful Cloud Dragon by Katayama Nanpu.
The veranda of Godaido Hall offers arguably the best view in Nikko, looking out over the deep blue waters of Lake Chuzenji toward the peak of Mount Nantai.
Hashiri Daikokuten
A unique hall dedicated to the “Running Daikokuten,” a deity said to have helped Shodo Shonin finally reach the summit of Mt. Nantai after two failed attempts.
This Temple so ancients and cozy thats brings you on 8th Century creation and its mythological vision for me.
Visiting Information
Nearest Access: Tobu Nikko Station, Approximately a 20-minute walk from the Chuzenji-Onsen bus stop, or a 5-minute walk from the “Tachiki Kannon-mae” stop (seasonal).
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Admission: 500 yen for adults
Hours: Generally 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (3:30 PM in winter).
Wheelchair accessibility: Yes 
Restroom: Yes,
Parking: Wheelchair accessible free parking lot
★Parking Lot
