Chuzenji Temple (Tachiki Kannon)
中禅寺（立木観音）
A branch temple of Rinnoji standing at Utagahama on the shore of Lake Chuzenji. Its principal image is a statue of the Eleven-Headed Thousand-Armed Kannon (the "Tachiki Kannon"), said to have been carved by the founding priest Shodo Shonin from a living katsura tree growing on the lakeshore, and it is also known as the 18th temple of the Bando Thirty-Three Kannon pilgrimage.
A principal image carved from a living tree
The principal image, the Eleven-Headed Thousand-Armed Kannon, is called the "Tachiki Kannon" (Standing-Tree Kannon) because it is said that Shodo Shonin carved it from a katsura tree growing on the shore of Lake Chuzenji while the tree's roots were still in the ground. Standing about 6 meters tall, it draws many pilgrims as the 18th temple of the Bando Thirty-Three Kannon pilgrimage.
A location unique to the lakeshore
Situated on the shore of Lake Chuzenji, the temple grounds offer a beautiful view of the lake and Mount Nantai. The place name Utagahama is said to derive from a court noble in exile composing waka poetry here, and it has long been known as a scenically beautiful spot.
A spectacular view from the Godai-do hall
The Godai-do hall on the grounds offers a full view of Lake Chuzenji and is popular as one of Oku-Nikko's finest viewpoints. During the autumn-leaf season, the combination of foliage reflected on the lake's surface and Mount Nantai creates a magnificent scene.
Seasonal Highlights
🌸 Spring (Mar-May)
A season when the contrast between fresh greenery and Lake Chuzenji is beautiful.
🌿 Summer (Jun-Aug)
Visitors can worship while feeling the cool breeze off the lake.
🍁 Autumn (Sep-Nov)
The view of autumn leaves and Lake Chuzenji from the Godai-do hall is spectacular.
❄️ Winter (Dec-Feb)
Viewing hours are shortened, so pay attention to your visit timing.
Visit Tips
- Suggested duration
- About 30-40 minutes
- Crowd levels
- Many visitors combine this with sightseeing at Lake Chuzenji
- Best time to visit
- Morning during the autumn-leaf season is recommended
| Address | 2578 Chuzenji Utagahama, Nikko, Tochigi |
|---|---|
| Hours | April-October 8:00-17:00, November 8:00-16:00, December-February 8:30-15:30, March 8:00-16:00 |
| Admission | Adults ¥500 |
| Official Website | Visit official website |
Access
- 10 min walk from Tobu-Nikko Station (About 50 minutes by Tobu Bus bound for "Chuzenji Onsen," then a 10-minute walk)