The Great Buddha of Kamakura (Kamakura Daibutsu)
Nestled in the picturesque coastal city of Kamakura, Japan, lies one of the most iconic and awe-inspiring monuments in the country: the Great Buddha of Kamakura , known locally as “Kamakura Daibutsu.” (鎌倉大仏) The statue stands tall in the peaceful precincts of Kotoku-in Temple, a site that embodies both historical significance and spiritual tranquility. In this blog post, we’ll take you on a virtual journey to Kotoku-in and explore the history, architecture, and cultural importance of this remarkable place.
A Glimpse into the History of Kotoku-in
Kotoku-in has a storied past that dates back to the 13th century. It was initially established in 1252 as a Buddhist Zen temple during the Kamakura period, a time when Kamakura was Japan’s political capital. The temple was founded by a regent of the Kamakura Shogunate, Hojo Tokiyori, with the primary purpose of promoting Buddhism.
The Great Buddha, the focal point of Kotoku-in , was cast in 1252. This colossal bronze statue was a representation of Amida Buddha, who embodies infinite light and boundless wisdom. With a height of approximately 13.35 meters (44 feet) and a weight of over 121 tons, the Great Buddha was originally housed within a grand hall. Unfortunately, the hall was destroyed multiple times due to natural disasters like tsunamis and storms. Today, only the statue remains, exposed to the elements but still standing proudly, a symbol of resilience.
The Architecture of the Great Buddha
The Great Buddha of Kamakura is not only known for its size but also for its architectural significance. Crafted in the Kamakura style, this statue exemplifies the Japanese approach to sculpture during the Kamakura period. The statue is seated in the lotus position, with its right hand raised in a gesture of fearlessness and its left hand resting in the meditation mudra. The serene expression on the Buddha’s face radiates a sense of inner peace and enlightenment.
One unique aspect of the Great Buddha is that visitors can enter the hollow interior of the statue. For a small fee, you can climb up inside the statue and explore the craftsmanship and engineering that went into creating this magnificent work of art. It’s a fascinating experience that offers a glimpse into the structural intricacies of the statue.
Cultural Significance and Visitor Experience
Kotoku-in and the Great Buddha are not only admired for their historical and architectural significance but also for their spiritual and cultural importance. The site is a popular destination for pilgrims, tourists, and locals alike, drawing people from around the world who seek a deeper connection to Buddhism and Japanese heritage.
The temple grounds, surrounded by lush greenery, create an atmosphere of serenity and tranquility. Visitors can stroll around the beautifully landscaped gardens, light incense sticks as an offering, and engage in quiet contemplation. The sound of the wind rustling through the leaves and the occasional chime of temple bells add to the meditative ambiance.
Practical Information
- Location: Kotoku-in is located in Kamakura, a city in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. It is easily accessible from Tokyo and Yokohama by train.
- Entrance Fee: As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, the entrance fee was around 200 yen for adults and 150 yen for children. Please check for any updated prices before your visit.
- Opening Hours: The temple is generally open from early morning to late afternoon. Exact hours may vary by season, so it’s a good idea to check the current operating hours before planning your visit.
Conclusion
Kotoku-in Temple and the Great Buddha of Kamakura are more than just tourist attractions; they are symbols of Japan’s rich history, spiritual heritage, and enduring cultural legacy. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or simply someone looking for a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life, a visit to Kotoku-in Temple is sure to leave a lasting impression and provide a sense of peace and enlightenment in the presence of the Great Buddha. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the harmony of history and spirituality at this remarkable site when you find yourself in Kamakura, Japan.
Link And Resources
English / Kotoku-in Temple
Official website.
Japanese / Kotoku-in Temple
Address
4-2-28, Hase, Kamakura,
Kanagawa Prefecture 248-0016, Japan
Phone：0467－22－0703
Fax：0467－22－5051
By Enoshima Electric Railway (Enoden)
●From Kamakura: Get off at JR Yokosuka Line Kamakura Station. Change to the Enoshima Electric Railway (bound for Fujisawa) and get off at Hase Station, the third stop (approx. seven minutes from Kamakura). Kotoku-in is a seven-minute walk from the station.
Access From Hase Station to Kotoku-in Temple(Google Map)
●From Fujisawa: Get off at JR Tokaido Line or Odakyu Line Fujisawa Station. Change to the Enoshima Electric Railway (bound for Kamakura) and get off at Hase Station, the 11th stop (approx. 40 minutes from Fujisawa). Kotoku-in is a seven-minute walk from the station.
Access From Fujisawa Station to Kotoku-in Temple (Google Map)
By bus from Kamakura Station
From the East Exit of Kamakura Station, take the Enoshima-dentetsu Bus (bus stop #1) or the Keikyu Bus (bus stop #6) and get off at the Daibutsu-mae stop (approx. 10 minutes from Kamakura Station).
FAQs
How do I get to Kotoku-in temple?
To get to Kotoku-in Temple in Kamakura, you can take a short 400-meter walk from Hase Station on the Enoden Line to Enoshima. Kamakura is situated in Kanagawa Prefecture, south of Tokyo, and is easily accessible by taking a JR Yokosuka train from Tokyo Station, which takes less than an hour.
How long to spend at Kotoku-in?
The entrance fee for Kotoku-in Temple is 200 yen, and there is an additional charge of 20 yen to enter the Buddha. It is recommended to allocate around 30 minutes to fully appreciate the Kamakura Daibutsu and explore the other valuable artifacts at Kotoku-in Temple without feeling rushed.
Where is the biggest Buddha in Japan?
The Ushiku Daibutsu, a statue situated in Ushiku, Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan, was finished in 1993 and has a total height of 120 meters (390 feet), including the 10-meter (33-foot) base and 10-meter lotus platform.
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