Chuguji
奈良県
Imperial nunnery housing the 'smile' Bosatsu counted among the world's three great smiling statues, plus Japan's oldest embroidery
Founded
607
Type
Temple
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JR法隆寺駅からバス「中宮寺前」下車すぐ
奈良県生駒郡斑鳩町法隆寺北1-1-2
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Info
Temple
Founded 607
1419 years
Enshrined Deity
菩薩半跏思惟像
国宝
Buddhist Sect
聖徳宗
Overview
Chuguji is a monzeki nunnery founded by Shotoku Taishi's mother, Princess Anahobe. Its principal image — the Bosatsu Hankashiyui-zo (Bodhisattva in Contemplation), a National Treasure of the Asuka period — is famed worldwide for its serene archaic smile. The Tenjukoku Shucho, Japan's oldest surviving embroidery, also a National Treasure, is preserved here. Located east of Horyuji's Yumedono Hall.
Origins
Chuguji Temple is traditionally said to have been founded in 607 CE as a votive temple built at the wish of Princess Anahobe no Hashihito, mother of Prince Shotoku. Originally, the temple is believed to have encompassed a much larger precinct east of its current location, adjacent to Horyuji Temple,…
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