Great Buddha of Kamakura
The Bronze Colossus of Eternal Meditation
The Great Buddha (Daibutsu) of Kamakura was cast in 1252 during the Kamakura period, when this coastal city served as Japan's political capital. Originally housed in a massive wooden hall, the statue has sat in the open air since a tsunami in 1498 destroyed the last of several halls that once sheltered it. Standing 13.35 meters (43.8 feet) tall and weighing approximately 121 tonnes, it represents Amida Buddha, the Buddha of Infinite Light.
The statue is a masterpiece of Kamakura-period bronze casting, composed of bronze plates welded together in layers. Despite centuries of exposure to earthquakes, tsunamis, typhoons, and ocean air, the Buddha remains remarkably intact. The serene facial expression and elegant proportions demonstrate the sophisticated Buddhist art of medieval Japan. The statue was designated as a National Treasure in 1958.
Unlike its more famous counterpart in Nara's Todai-ji Temple, Kamakura's Buddha sits outdoors, creating a unique visual experience where the statue interacts with natural light, changing seasons, and weather. For a small fee (¥20), visitors can enter the interior of the statue through a door in the back to see the construction methods - hollow casting with reinforcing frameworks visible inside - a rare opportunity to understand ancient bronze-casting techniques.
Key Highlights
- National Treasure bronze Buddha from 1252
- 13.35 meters tall, weighing 121 tonnes
- Sits in open air since 1498 tsunami
- Remarkably preserved despite 750+ years outdoors
- Rare opportunity to view interior construction (¥20)
- One of Japan's most iconic and photographed monuments
Access Information
Location
4 Chome-2-28 Hase, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-0016, Japan
Nearest Stations
- • Hase Station (Enoden Line)
Opening Hours
Apr-Sep: 8:00-17:30 | Oct-Mar: 8:00-17:00 | Open daily | Last entry 15 minutes before closing
Admission Fee
¥300 for adults, ¥150 for elementary/junior high students | Interior viewing: additional ¥20
How to Get There
From Tokyo (Shinjuku)
JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line to Kamakura, transfer to Enoden Line to Hase (3 stops)
1 hour
From Tokyo (Shinagawa)
JR Yokosuka Line to Kamakura, transfer to Enoden Line to Hase
1 hour
From Yokohama
JR Yokosuka Line to Kamakura, transfer to Enoden Line to Hase
30 minutes
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Visit Early Morning or Late Afternoon
The Great Buddha is one of Kamakura's most popular attractions and gets very crowded midday, especially on weekends and during cherry blossom/autumn seasons. Arrive by 9:00 AM or after 3:00 PM for a more peaceful experience with better photo opportunities.
Photography Tips for Best Shots
The Buddha faces south, so morning light (8:00-10:00 AM) provides the best front lighting. Shoot from various angles - straight on, from the sides, and including surrounding trees for context. The view from behind shows the interior entrance door. Low angles emphasize the statue's imposing size.
Pay ¥20 to See the Interior
For just ¥20 extra, you can enter the hollow interior of the Buddha through a door in the back. Inside, you can see the ancient construction technique - bronze plates welded together with visible reinforcing frameworks. It's cramped and dark but fascinating for understanding how this massive statue was created.
Combine with Hase-dera Temple
Hase-dera Temple is just a 5-minute walk from the Great Buddha and features a beautiful hillside setting with an 11-headed Kannon statue, gardens, and excellent views of Kamakura and the ocean. Both sites can be visited in 2-3 hours total. Combined tickets are not available.
Enoden Scenic Railway Experience
The Enoden Line from Kamakura to Hase is a charming vintage railway that runs through residential streets and along the coast. Consider riding the entire line (Kamakura to Enoshima) for a scenic 25-minute journey. A day pass (¥800) offers unlimited rides.
Local Food Around Hase Station
The street between Hase Station and the Buddha has shops selling dango (rice dumplings), soft serve ice cream, and traditional snacks. Try shirasu (whitebait) rice bowls, a Kamakura specialty, at nearby restaurants. Many cafes offer views of the area's traditional atmosphere.
Kamakura Full-Day Itinerary Suggestions
Combine the Great Buddha with other Kamakura highlights: Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Hase-dera Temple, Enoshima Island, and Komachi-dori shopping street. The JR Kamakura-Enoshima Pass (¥700) offers discount access to the area. Allow a full day to see multiple sites without rushing.
Outdoor Setting Means Weather Matters
Since the Buddha sits entirely outdoors, weather affects your experience. Sunny days offer the best photography and atmosphere. Rain adds a contemplative, misty mood but can be less comfortable. The statue's weathered bronze patina takes on different colors depending on lighting and moisture.
FAQ
How long should I spend at the Great Buddha?
Most visitors spend 30-45 minutes at Kotoku-in Temple. This includes viewing the Buddha from various angles, taking photos, entering the interior, and walking the small temple grounds. If you're combining it with nearby Hase-dera Temple (5 minutes walk), allow 2-3 hours total for both sites.
Can I go inside the Great Buddha?
Yes, for an additional ¥20, you can enter the hollow interior through a door at the back. Inside, you'll see the ancient bronze construction technique with visible reinforcing frameworks and welded plates. The space is small, dark, and cramped, but it's a fascinating and unique experience you can't get at most Buddha statues.
Is the Great Buddha crowded?
Yes, it's one of Kamakura's most popular attractions and gets very crowded during midday (11am-2pm), especially on weekends, holidays, and during cherry blossom or autumn seasons. For a quieter experience with better photo opportunities, arrive by 9:00 AM or visit after 3:00 PM.
What other temples should I visit in Kamakura?
Must-see temples include Hase-dera Temple (5-minute walk, features an 11-headed Kannon statue and ocean views), Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine (Kamakura's most important Shinto shrine), Hokokuji Bamboo Temple, Engaku-ji Temple, and Kencho-ji Temple. Most can be visited on a full-day Kamakura itinerary.
Is the Great Buddha wheelchair accessible?
The main viewing area is accessible with paved pathways from the entrance. However, the interior of the Buddha is not wheelchair accessible - it requires climbing narrow steps. The temple grounds are relatively flat, but some gravel paths may be challenging. Accessible restrooms are available near the entrance.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes, children usually love seeing the massive Buddha statue. The compact size of the grounds makes it manageable for families. Kids typically enjoy going inside the statue. However, young children may need supervision on the interior steps, which are steep and narrow. The visit is short enough that children won't get bored.
Can I visit Enoshima Island on the same day?
Absolutely! Enoshima Island is just 15 minutes away on the scenic Enoden Line. A typical itinerary includes the Great Buddha in the morning, Hase-dera Temple, then Enoshima for the afternoon (island, shrine, caves, and ocean views). The Enoden day pass (¥800) covers unlimited rides and makes this combination easy.
Are there coin lockers or luggage storage?
Small coin lockers are available at Hase Station (¥300-500), though limited in number and size. Kamakura Station has more extensive locker facilities. Kotoku-in Temple itself doesn't have luggage storage. Consider storing large bags at your hotel or at Kamakura Station before visiting.
Can I visit in the rain?
Yes, but the experience differs. Since the Buddha sits completely outdoors, you'll need an umbrella. Rain creates a contemplative, atmospheric mood and the bronze takes on unique colors when wet. However, photography is more challenging, crowds are lighter, and the interior viewing can be slippery. The grounds have minimal covered areas.
Are there restrooms at the site?
Yes, clean public restrooms are available near the entrance of Kotoku-in Temple. They include both Western and Japanese-style toilets. Additional restrooms can be found at Hase Station (5-minute walk) and at nearby Hase-dera Temple.
Where can I eat near the Great Buddha?
The street between Hase Station and the Buddha has small restaurants and cafes offering traditional Japanese food, shirasu (whitebait) rice bowls - a Kamakura specialty - and street snacks like dango and soft serve. More dining options are available near Kamakura Station on Komachi-dori shopping street, about 10 minutes away.
Do I need to speak Japanese to visit?
No, Japanese is not necessary. Signage includes English for basic information. Entry tickets are straightforward (simple pricing and ticket machines). While staff may have limited English, the experience is largely visual and self-explanatory. Translation apps can help read informational plaques if desired.
What's the best season to visit?
Each season offers unique appeal. Spring (late March-April) features cherry blossoms around the grounds. Summer (July-August) can be hot but less crowded. Autumn (November) offers beautiful fall colors. Winter (December-February) has fewer tourists and crisp lighting for photos. Avoid rainy season (June-July) if possible.
What shouldn't I miss when visiting?
Don't miss going inside the Buddha (only ¥20 extra), viewing from multiple angles (front, sides, and back), examining the weathered bronze patina up close, reading about the tsunami history, and taking photos with different compositions. If time permits, the peaceful temple grounds have stone monuments and smaller structures worth exploring.
Are photography and tripods allowed?
Photography is freely allowed throughout the grounds and encouraged. Tripods are permitted but should be used considerately without blocking pathways or other visitors. The interior is very dark, making photography challenging without flash. For best results, visit during morning hours for optimal natural lighting on the Buddha's face.
Can I combine this with other Kamakura attractions?
Yes, easily! Popular combinations include: Great Buddha + Hase-dera Temple (2-3 hours), full Kamakura tour adding Tsurugaoka Hachimangu and Komachi-dori shopping street (5-6 hours), or Great Buddha + Enoshima Island (full day). The JR Kamakura-Enoshima Pass (¥700) offers discounted transportation for these combinations.
Is it feasible as a day trip from Tokyo?
Absolutely! Kamakura is just 1 hour from Tokyo (Shinjuku or Shinagawa) by train. You can visit the Great Buddha, Hase-dera Temple, Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, and Komachi-dori shopping street in a full day, returning to Tokyo by evening. Start early (arrive by 9-10am) to maximize your time.
Do I need advance tickets or reservations?
No advance tickets or reservations needed. Simply arrive and purchase tickets at the entrance (¥300 adults, ¥150 students). The site rarely reaches capacity. However, during peak seasons (cherry blossom, Golden Week, autumn), expect longer entrance queues - arriving early helps avoid waits.
Are there English guided tours available?
The temple itself doesn't offer official guided tours. However, English-speaking private guides can be hired through tour companies in Tokyo or Kamakura. Many visitors find the experience self-explanatory with basic English signage. Audio guide apps covering Kamakura's major sites are available for download.
Why does the Buddha sit outdoors?
Originally, the Buddha was housed in a massive wooden hall built in the 1240s. However, this hall was destroyed by a tsunami in 1498, and it was never rebuilt. The Buddha has sat in the open air for over 500 years since then, making it unique among Japan's Great Buddhas and creating its distinctive weathered appearance.
Nearby Attractions
Explore more wonderful destinations in the same prefecture.
Engaku-ji Temple
One of Kamakura's most important Zen temples, founded in 1282, featuring National Treasure buildings, tranquil Zen gardens, and serving as the second-ranked of Kamakura's Five Great Zen Temples.
Enoshima Aquarium
A modern seaside aquarium featuring massive ocean tanks, jellyfish displays, dolphin and sea lion shows, and stunning views of Mount Fuji across Sagami Bay.
Enoshima Island
A small island resort connected by bridge to the mainland, offering beaches, shrines, caves, an observation tower, and stunning views of Mt. Fuji across Sagami Bay.
Hakone Onsen
A renowned hot spring resort area nestled in the mountains southwest of Tokyo, offering stunning views of Mount Fuji, volcanic valleys, and traditional Japanese inns.
Hasedera Temple (Kamakura)
A scenic hillside temple famous for its massive wooden Kannon statue, thousands of jizo statues, and seasonal flowers with ocean views over Kamakura's coastline.
Kawasaki Daishi Heiken-ji
One of Japan's most important Buddhist temples, famous for yakuyoke blessings to ward off bad luck and drawing over 3 million New Year visitors annually.
Sankeien Garden
A stunning 175,000 square meter traditional Japanese garden featuring historic buildings relocated from across Japan, seasonal flowers, ponds, and peaceful walking paths away from Yokohama's urban center.
Yokohama Chinatown
Japan's largest Chinatown with over 600 shops and restaurants packed into vibrant streets, featuring authentic Chinese cuisine, colorful gates, temples, and festivals year-round.