Kōtoku-in Temple

Welcome to Koh-toh-koo-een, a temple belonging to the Jodo sect of Buddhism and the site of one of Japan's most recognizable and enduring symbols: the Great Buddha of Kah-mah-koo-rah. This massive bronze statue of Amida Nyorai,…

Your approach to the Great Buddha begins at the Niomon Gate, the traditional entrance to the temple complex. This gateway is guarded by two fearsome wooden statues of the Nio, or temple guardians. …

Now, stand before the Daibutsu, the Great Buddha of Kamakura. The scale is truly overwhelming. …

One of the most unique aspects of the Kamakura Buddha is that for a small additional fee, you can actually go inside the statue. Entering the hollow interior provides a rare opportunity to see the 'skeleton' of this National…

As you walk around the base of the statue, notice the large, circular stones embedded in the plaza floor. These are the original foundation stones for the massive wooden pillars that once supported the Great Buddha Hall. …

On the inside of the gateway as you leave, you will notice a pair of massive straw sandals, or 'Warazouri,' hanging on the wall. These sandals measure nearly two meters in length and are woven from rice straw. …

As you depart from Koh-toh-koo-een and the silent gaze of the Great Buddha, take a moment to reflect on the themes of endurance and peace that define this site. You have encountered a masterpiece of medieval technology that has…