Kōtoku-in Temple (高徳院)
Home of the Great Buddha of Kamakura
Kōtoku-in is a Buddhist temple located in Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture, and is world-famous for its Great Buddha (Daibutsu) — a massive bronze statue that is one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks.
🪷 About the Great Buddha
-
The Great Buddha of Kamakura is a 13.35-meter tall bronze statue of Amida Buddha.
-
It was originally built in the mid-13th century (around 1252).
-
Weighing over 121 tons, the statue once stood inside a temple hall, but the building was destroyed by typhoons and earthquakes in the 15th century. Since then, the Buddha has stood in the open air.
🧘 Spiritual and Cultural Symbol
-
The statue represents peace, serenity, and enlightenment.
-
Visitors often feel a sense of calm when standing before the Buddha.
-
The statue is a National Treasure of Japan, reflecting its cultural and historical significance.
📸 Things to See and Do
-
Enter the statue: You can go inside the hollow body of the Buddha for a small fee and see how it was constructed.
-
Take photos from different angles — the contrast of the green bronze against the blue sky is stunning.
-
Learn about the temple’s history from informative signs in English and Japanese.
🌿 Peaceful Surroundings
-
Kōtoku-in is surrounded by trees and a quiet atmosphere, perfect for reflection.
-
The temple grounds are simple but elegant, with stone paths and benches for relaxation.
🚉 Access
-
About a 10-minute walk from Hase Station on the Enoden Line.
-
Kamakura is around 1 hour from Tokyo by train, making this an ideal day trip.
🎯 Why Visit Kōtoku-in?
-
🗿 See one of Japan’s most famous and largest Buddha statues
-
🧘 Experience a place of tranquility and spiritual reflection
-
📸 Take unforgettable photos in a historic setting
-
🚶 Walk to nearby sites like Hase-dera Temple and the Kamakura coast
Kōtoku-in is not just a photo spot — it’s a place where visitors from around the world come to feel peace, history, and the enduring power of faith.
Official Website
https://www.kotoku-in.jp/en/
Accommodation sites
Agoda
 Home of the Great Buddha of Kamakura Kōtoku-in is a Buddhist temple located i){kind=link}