Nestled in Kanagawa Prefecture, just an hour from Tokyo, Kamakura (鎌倉, literally "sickle warehouse") is a favorite destination for travelers. Once Japan's capital, this city is brimming with historical and spiritual treasures.
Among these, the Great Buddha of Kamakura (Daibutsu, 大仏) stands as one of the country's most iconic landmarks, drawing millions of visitors from around the globe each year.
Why Is Kamakura a Historic Destination?
In 1192, Minamoto no Yoritomo (1147–1199) established Japan’s first shogunate in Kamakura, transforming this small settlement into a significant political and military center.
This era, known as the Kamakura Period (1185–1333), marked the start of Japan's medieval age, where the samurai class rose to power, surpassing the imperial court’s aristocracy in Kyoto. After 1333, Kyoto regained its status as the nation’s capital with the restoration of imperial rule.
Today, Kamakura combines its historical legacy with a laid-back coastal vibe. Its beaches attract surfers and sun-seekers during summer, while its scenic blend of verdant mountains and sparkling sea offers visitors a harmonious mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
At the heart of this setting lies the Kôtoku-in Buddhist Temple (高徳院), home to the famous Great Buddha.
The History of Kamakura’s Great Buddha
The Great Buddha of Kamakura, a monumental bronze statue of Amida Nyorai (the Buddha of Infinite Light), is a masterpiece of religious art. Standing 11.3 meters tall and weighing 121 tons, it is the second-largest seated Buddha in Japan, after the Great Buddha of Nara.
Origins of the Statue
The idea of constructing a colossal Buddha in Kamakura was inspired by Minamoto no Yoritomo’s visit to the Great Buddha of Nara. Though Yoritomo did not live to see its completion, the wooden statue was inaugurated in 1243 after a decade of construction.
However, a storm destroyed the wooden structure in 1248. In response, the monk Jôkô initiated fundraising to replace it with a bronze version. Construction began in 1252 and took over a decade to complete.
Destruction and Resilience
Over the centuries, the Buddha’s protective hall was destroyed multiple times by typhoons (1334 and 1369) and an earthquake (1498). Since then, the Great Buddha has stood in the open air, acquiring its signature green patina from bronze oxidation. Traces of gold remain visible near the ears and parts of the statue.
Explore Inside the Buddha
The Great Buddha is a National Treasure today, and visitors can enter its interior for just 50 yen. Inside, you can see the intricate assembly of bronze plates fastened with rivets—a testament to the 13th-century artisans' ingenuity.
How to Visit the Great Buddha?
Kamakura is well-connected to Tokyo by train, making it a convenient day trip destination.
- From Tokyo (Tokyo Station or Shinagawa)
- Take the JR Yokosuka Line to Kamakura Station (about 1 hour).
- Walk 30 minutes or transfer to the Enoden Line (non-JR) to Hase Station (EN12). The Great Buddha is a 10-minute walk from there.
- From Shinjuku
- Take the Odakyu Line to Fujisawa Station (OE13) (about 1 hour).
- Transfer to the Enoden Line (non-JR) to Hase Station (30 minutes).
- From Enoshima Island:
- Take the Enoden Line to Hase Station.
Enoshima/Kamakura Freepass
The Odakyu Railway offers a convenient pass for visitors. It includes round-trip travel from Tokyo to Enoshima and unlimited rides on the Enoden Line, making it an affordable option for exploring the area.
A Scenic Hike to the Great Buddha
For a more adventurous approach, take the 3 km (1.8-mile) hiking trail from Kita-Kamakura Station to the Great Buddha. This picturesque route takes about 1.5 hours and passes several notable landmarks:
- Jôchi-ji Temple: A Zen temple near the starting point, accessed via a staircase at the end of the street next to the parking lot.
- Zeniarai Benzaiten Shrine: A shrine reached through a small cave, where visitors wash money in a spring to attract wealth.
- Sasuke Inari Shrine: A charming Shinto shrine with distinctive red torii gates.
Conclude your hike at the Great Buddha. Be sure to arrive before Kôtoku-in’s closing time of 5:00 PM. For your return, take the Enoden Line to Kamakura Station or Fujisawa Station.
More Activities Around the Great Buddha
If you have extra time, Kamakura offers several other attractions:
- Kenchô-ji Temple: The oldest Zen temple in Japan, featuring an impressive wooden gate and peaceful gardens.
- Hase-dera Temple: Known for its statue of Kannon (the Goddess of Mercy) and panoramic views.
- Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gû Shrine: Kamakura’s most important Shinto shrine, located near Kamakura Station.
- Enoshima Island: Just 45 minutes away via the Enoden Line, this island offers caves, a lighthouse and breathtaking ocean views
