Kamakura Daibutsu (Kotokuin Temple)

The Great Buddha of Kamakura

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, typhoons and other natural disasters. The current outdoor setting, surrounded by a beautiful garden, is a result of these historical events. The statue has been sitting in the open air since the 15th century. 

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.

Explore Kamakura

Top Attractions

Kamakura Daibutsu at Kotoku-in Temple, Kanagawa

Kamakura Daibutsu (Kotokuin Temple)

The Great Buddha of Kamakura

Enoshima Sea Candle, Kanagawa Prefecture

Enoshima Sea Candle

Seaside observation deck

Enoshima Aquarium is a fun, family friendly activity in the Enoshima, Kanagawa Prefecture area.

Enoshima Aquarium

Enchanting aquarium with jellyfish, dolphin shows, and Sagami Bay exhibits.

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu in Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecutre

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu

Significant shrine in Kamakura

Hours and Admission

Accessing Kotoku-in Temple

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.

Where to Stay

Hotel Metropolitan Kamakura

Hotel Metropolitan Kamakura

Recommended

Hotel Metropolitan Kamakura offers spacious rooms modern rooms. Guests enjoy free WiFi, streaming services, and city views.

Kamakura Hotel

Kamakura Hotel

Simplistic and minimalist, centrally located near Kamakura Station for convenient exploring.

Tosei Hotel Cocone Kamakura

Tosei Hotel Cocone Kamakura

Modern, family friendly accommodation near Kamakura Station, with rooms perfect for solo travellers and families travelling together.

Explore more in Kanagawa Prefecture

Enoshima Aquarium is a fun, family friendly activity in the Enoshima, Kanagawa Prefecture area.

Enoshima Aquarium

Enchanting aquarium with jellyfish, dolphin shows, and Sagami Bay exhibits.

Enoshima Sea Candle, Kanagawa Prefecture

Enoshima Sea Candle

Seaside observation deck

Lake Ashinoko, which surrounds Hakone, with Hakone Shrine floating on the shore, Mount Fuji in the background, Kanagawa Prefecture. It is one of the top 5 things to do in Hakone

Hakone

Hot springs, scenic lakes, art museums, and stunning Mount Fuji views.

Hakone Checkpoint in Kanagawa Prefecture

Hakone Checkpoint

Edo era checkpoint, often used by samurai and travelling merchants

The Spiral Staircase at the Hakone Open Air Museum

Hakone Open Air Museum

Outdoor museum with interactive displays

Hakone Ropeway, climbing over Mount Hakone

Hakone Ropeway

Panoramic cable journey linking Hakone’s highlights

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