Chugu-ji
中宮寺
A nunnery next to the East Precinct of Horyu-ji, enshrining the half-lotus pensive Bodhisattva, one of the 'Three Great Smiling Statues of the World.'
Chugu-ji is said to have been founded by Prince Shotoku for his mother, and it is a monzeki nunnery. Its main image, a wooden half-lotus pensive Bodhisattva (National Treasure, traditionally identified as Cintamani Cakra Avalokiteshvara), is famous for its contemplative pose with the left hand resting against the cheek and its 'archaic smile.' It is often mentioned alongside the Mona Lisa and the Sphinx. The current main hall was built in 1968 and stands on a pond. Admission is about 600 yen, open 9:00–16:30 (until 16:00 in winter). It is on the east side of the Yumedono at Horyu-ji, so it is just a two-minute walk after visiting Horyu-ji.
Opening hours
09:00–16:30 (until 16:00 in winter)