The Kamakura Daibutsu, also known as the Great Buddha of Kamakura, is a large bronze statue of Amida Buddha located in the Kotoku-in Temple in Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture.
The Great Buddha of Kamakura was cast in 1252 and originally stood inside a large temple hall. The statue is believed to have been cast by the sculptors Ono Goroemon and Tanji Hisatomo. The original temple housing the Great Buddha was damaged and destroyed several times due to earthquakes. The current outdoor setting, surrounded by a beautiful garden, is a result of these historical events. The statue has withstood the test of time and has become an enduring symbol of Kamakura.
The statue is made of bronze and measures approximately 13.35 meters (43.8 feet) in height, making it one of the largest Buddha statues in Japan. The bronze casting technique used in its creation is representative of the Kamakura period’s artistic and technical achievements.
Hours and Admission
- Hours: 8:00am - 5:30pm (5:00pm from October through March)
- 300JPY
- Average Time Spent: 15-20 mins
- Official Website
Accessing the Kamakura Daibutsu
The Kotoku-in Temple and Great Buddha, is located only a short train ride away from Kamakura Station.
By taking the Enoden Railway Line, the journey from Kamakura Station to Hase Station will take 5 minutes, and a further 10 minutes of walking from Hase Station. The journey will cost 190JPY for one way.
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