Chūzen-ji Temple — Attraction in Nikko

Gorgeous is an understatement for this place. The temple faces the snow peaked mountains surrounding Lake Chuzenji, visiting both the lake and temple would be the minimum that you should you in this area.

Though late April, the weather was pretty cold due to the altitude and cloudy weather. It was quiet with only a few visitors.

As always respecting the culture and moving around silently will be appreciated.

This was a day trip for me. A 40 minute train from Utsunomiya which runs hourly (760 yen) As soon as I got out of the train the Tobu bus 26B was almost ready to leave for Lake Chuzenji - a 30min bus ride 1250 yen.

I downloaded the Suica card on my wallet and this can be used easily on both train and bus.

Have a wonderful time basking in the beauty...

Chūzen-ji Temple, founded around 784 by the monk Shōdō, is a serene and spiritually historic spot nestled on the shores of Lake Chuzenji. It beautifully combines Tendai Buddhist reverence with mountain worship traditions, deeply rooted in the natural landscape of Nikko.

When I visited, I bought amulets personalized with my name monks pray with these for a designated period and crystal beads that are ritually “charged” for you. There’s also a spiritual tradition here linked to Shugendō, which merges Buddhism, mountain worship, and esoteric practices , though Chūzen-ji remains primarily a Buddhist temple rather than a Shugendō site. It felt deeply moving...

This temple is a hidden gem in Nikko! Located right in front of Lake Chuzenji and when you come at the right time you will be able to see the lake and Mt. Nantai beautifully from the top floor. Unlike other temples in Japan, after paying the entrance fee (JPY 500), you are able to go explore inside 2 halls, main hall and 5 wisdom king hall.

Sometimes they will hold a Prayer Beads Bracelets workshop and you will be able to make your own bracelets and the monk will give his prayer directly! (JPY 2000~)

Ps. If you have Goshuuin book (Temple Stamps book) do not forget, as they have 3 different ones available on the temple right before...