1. How tall is the Great Buddha in Kamakura?
The Great Buddha in Kamakura, also known as the Daibutsu, stands at 13.35 meters (43.8 feet) tall.
2. When was the Great Buddha built?
The Great Buddha was built in the late 6th century or early 7th century.
3. What material was used to construct the Great Buddha?
The Great Buddha was constructed using bronze.
4. Who built the Great Buddha?
The Great Buddha was built by Emperor Shomu and Buddhist monk Gyoki in the 8th century.
5. Is it possible to go inside the Great Buddha?
No, it is not possible to go inside the Great Buddha in Kamakura. The statue is hollow on the inside but it is not accessible to the public. Visitors can only view the exterior of the statue and walk around its base.
6. What other historical landmarks can be found near the Great Buddha in Kamakura?
Some other historical landmarks near the Great Buddha in Kamakura include:
1. Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine: This Shinto shrine was established in 1063 and is one of the most important shrines in Kamakura.
2. Yuigahama Beach: This beach is located just a short distance from the Great Buddha and has been a popular destination for swimming and sunbathing since ancient times.
3. Zeniarai Benzaiten Shrine: This Shinto shrine is famous for its belief that washing money in its underground spring will bring financial prosperity.
4. Hokokuji Temple: Founded in 1334, this Zen temple is known for its beautiful bamboo grove and serene atmosphere.
5. Hasedera Temple: One of the oldest temples in Kamakura, Hasedera has a huge wooden statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy.
6. Komachi-dori Street: This bustling shopping street is lined with traditional Japanese-style buildings and offers a variety of souvenirs, snacks, and local specialties.
7. Enoshima Island: A scenic island located off the coast of Kamakura, Enoshima offers stunning views of Mt. Fuji, as well as shrines, caves, and gardens to explore.
8. Kenchoji Temple: Considered one of the five great Zen temples in Kamakura, Kenchoji was founded in 1253 and features beautiful gardens and impressive architecture.
7. How old is the Great Buddha now?
500 years old.8. What materials were used to build the Great Buddha?
The Great Buddha is primarily made of bronze, with a wooden core and gold leaf covering.
8. Has there been any restoration or preservation work done on the Great Buddha?
Yes, there have been multiple restoration and preservation efforts carried out on the Great Buddha. The most recent major restoration project was undertaken in 1986, where extensive work was done to reinforce the statue’s structure, repair damaged areas, and protect it from potential earthquakes. Additionally, smaller touch-up and cleaning projects are regularly carried out to maintain the statue’s appearance.
9. Are there any religious ceremonies held at the Great Buddha?
Yes, there are religious ceremonies and rituals held at the Great Buddha. These can include Buddhist prayers, chanting, and offerings to the Buddha. Additionally, various festivals and events are held at the site throughout the year, such as Buddha’s birthday celebrations.
10. How often do tourists visit the Great Buddha in Kamakura?
The Great Buddha in Kamakura receives visitors all year round, with peak periods being during the spring and summer seasons. On average, around 2 million visitors come to see the Great Buddha each year. Weekends and holidays tend to be busier than weekdays, and the number of tourists can also increase during major festivals or events in Kamakura.
11. Is photography allowed around and inside the Great Buddha?
Yes, photography is allowed around and inside the Great Buddha. However, flash photography is not permitted inside the building and there may be specific areas where photography may be restricted. It is always best to ask for permission before taking photos of any sacred or religious site.
12. Are there any legends or stories associated with the creation of the Great Buddha?
Yes, there are several legends and stories associated with the creation of the Great Buddha. One popular legend says that Emperor Shomu, who ruled Japan during the 8th century, was inspired to build the Great Buddha after having a dream of an enormous golden Buddha figure. Another legend claims that a giant statue of Buddha appeared on its own at Todai-ji Temple, and the emperor interpreted it as a sign from heaven to build a larger statue. Yet another story states that the emperor had commissioned an artist named Tori Busshi to create an image of Buddha, but when the artist could not finish it due to his death, his apprentice completed the statue which miraculously grew in size.
13. Can visitors touch or climb on top of the Great Buddha?
No, visitors are not allowed to touch or climb on top of the Great Buddha. The statue is considered a sacred and important cultural treasure, and visitors are expected to show respect by observing proper etiquette and not engaging in any activities that could potentially damage the statue.
14. Is there an entrance fee for visiting the Great Buddha in Kamakura?
Yes, there is an entrance fee for visiting the Great Buddha in Kamakura. The fee for adults (over 13 years old) is 300 yen, while children (12 years old and under) can enter for 100 yen.
15. Are there any souvenir shops or restaurants near the Great Buddha area?
Yes, there are several souvenir shops and restaurants located within walking distance of the Great Buddha area. Some popular options include the Great Buddha Izakaya, a traditional Japanese pub with local specialties and souvenirs, and the Daibutsu Souvenir Shop, which offers a variety of Buddha-themed gifts and trinkets. There are also several small cafes and restaurants offering local cuisine in the nearby town of Kamakura.
16. Can visitors learn about Buddhism and its history at the site of the Great Buddha?
Yes, visitors can learn about Buddhism and its history at the site of the Great Buddha. There are informational signs and plaques located around the statue that explain the significance of the Buddha in Buddhist belief and its role in Japanese culture. There are also guided tours available where knowledgeable guides can provide more detailed explanations and answer any questions about Buddhism and the Great Buddha. Additionally, visitors can visit nearby museums or temples for further education and exploration on Buddhism.
17. Does Kamakura offer guided tours for tourists visiting its historical landmarks, including the Great Buddha?
Yes, guided tours for Kamakura’s historical landmarks, including the Great Buddha (Daibutsu), are available through various tour companies and local guides. These tours typically include visits to popular sites such as Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Hase-dera Temple, and the Kotoku-in Temple where the Great Buddha is located. Some guided tours also offer additional activities such as traditional tea ceremonies or samurai sword demonstrations. It is recommended to book in advance and check the tour company’s language options to ensure a suitable experience for non-Japanese speakers.
18. Are there any annual events celebrating or honoring the Great Buddha in Kamakura?
Yes, there are several annual events that celebrate or honor the Great Buddha in Kamakura. Here are some examples:1. Daibutsu Festival (April): This festival is held at Kotokuin Temple, the home of the Great Buddha. The main event of the festival is a traditional dance performance called Nohgaku dedicated to the Buddha’s birthday.
2. Shoro Nagashi Ceremony (August): This ceremony is held at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, a popular shrine in Kamakura. During the ceremony, lanterns are released on the nearby Yuigahama Beach to remember and honor those who have passed away.
3. Daibutsu Eko-e (September): This event is held at Kita-Kamakura Zeniarai Benzaiten, a Buddhist temple near the Great Buddha. It includes a special service dedicated to giving gratitude and praise to the Great Buddha.
4. Jizo-bon Festival (August/September): Held at Hasedera Temple, this festival honors Jizo Bodhisattva, a protector deity believed to help guide souls into the afterlife. Visitors can offer prayers and light candles for their ancestors and departed loved ones.
5. Kamakura Matsuri (April): This 10-day festival celebrates Kamakura’s history and culture with various events including parades, traditional performances, and food stalls, all happening around different temples and shrines in Kamakura, including Kotokuin Temple where the Great Buddha is located.
6. Enoden Minato Matsuri (May): A festival along Enoshima Electric Railway (Enoden), which runs through Kamakura and other coastal towns in Kanagawa prefecture. During this event, specially-decorated trains run along scenic routes between Enoshima and Fujisawa stations, passing by iconic landmarks like Kotokuin Temple with its giant bronze Buddha statue.
19.Are there any nearby transportation options for reaching Kamakura’s historical landmarks such as buses or trains?
Yes, there are multiple and convenient transportation options available for reaching Kamakura’s historical landmarks such as buses or trains. Kamakura is well-connected to major cities and towns in Japan with an extensive public transportation system.
1. Train:
The most popular way to reach Kamakura’s historical sites is by train. The nearest station is Kamakura Station, which can be easily reached from Tokyo Station by taking the JR Yokosuka Line or Shonan-Shinjuku Line (approx. 1 hour). From Kamakura Station, visitors can take a short walk or catch a bus to the desired destination.
2. Bus:
Kamakura has a network of local buses that connect major tourist spots in the area such as Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Kotoku-in Temple, and Zeniarai Benten Shrine. Bus fares range from 170 to 220 yen depending on the distance traveled, and visitors can purchase tickets directly from the driver or use IC cards such as Suica or PASMO.
3. Enoden Line:
The cute and nostalgic Enoden Line runs through some of Kamakura’s most famous landmarks such as Hase-dera Temple, Great Buddha of Kamakura, and Hikagejinja Shrine. The train is small and colorful, making it a popular mode of transportation among tourists.
4.Hiking:
For those who enjoy walking and exploring at their own pace, hiking is also an option for reaching some of Kamakura’s historical sites. A popular route is from Kita-Kamakura Station to Daibutsu (Great Buddha) through the Genjiyama Park trail.
5.Taxi:
Taxis are readily available at all train stations in Kamakura and can be used for short trips within the city. They are not recommended for long-distance travel due to high fares.
6.Bicycle:
Renting a bicycle is also a convenient way to navigate through Kamakura’s historical landmarks. There are multiple rental shops near the train stations, and bicycles can be returned at any of the designated return spots in the city.
With these transportation options readily available, visitors can easily and comfortably explore Kamakura’s rich history and culture.
20. How does one show proper respect and etiquette while visiting a sacred site like Kamakura’s iconic
Great Buddha?1. Dress appropriately: When visiting a sacred site like Kamakura’s Great Buddha, it is important to dress conservatively and modestly out of respect. Avoid wearing revealing or inappropriate clothing.
2. Remove your shoes: Before entering any Buddhist temple or shrine, it is customary to remove your shoes. Make sure to check if this rule applies at the specific site you are visiting.
3. Bow upon entering and exiting: Bowing is a common gesture of respect in Japanese culture. When entering and leaving the Great Buddha, take a moment to bow towards the statue.
4. Quiet and respectful behavior: Sacred sites are places for prayer and contemplation, so it is important to maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor while inside. Refrain from loud talking or making noise that may disturb other visitors.
5. Follow photography rules: Some sacred sites may have restrictions on photography, so be sure to check before taking any pictures. If allowed, avoid taking selfies or posing in front of the Buddha statue out of respect.
6. Do not touch or climb on the statue: It is considered disrespectful to touch or climb on the Great Buddha statue, as it is a sacred object.
7. Make an offering: Many shrines and temples have areas designated for making offerings such as coins, incense, or flowers. Participating in this ritual is a way to show respect and make a wish or prayer.
8. Proper disposal of incense ashes: If you choose to participate in the incense burning ritual, make sure to properly dispose of your ashes afterward in designated containers provided by the temple.
9. Respect personal space: Be mindful of other visitors and refrain from getting too close to them when taking photos or walking around the site.
10. Follow instructions from temple staff: If there are any specific rules or instructions given by temple staff, be sure to follow them out of respect for their beliefs and traditions.
11. Do not disturb ongoing ceremonies: If there is a ceremony or ritual taking place, avoid interrupting or disrupting it.
12. Respect the environment: Many sacred sites are surrounded by nature, and it is important to respect the environment and not litter or damage any plants or wildlife.
13. Do not eat or drink inside: Eating and drinking are generally not allowed inside temples and shrines. If you have snacks or drinks with you, make sure to consume them outside the site.
14. Stay on designated paths: Some sites may have designated walking paths for visitors, so make sure to stick to them to avoid straying into restricted areas.
15. Follow proper hand washing rituals: Some temples and shrines may have a ritual of washing your hands before entering as a symbolic act of purification. Make sure to follow these rituals if they are present.
16. Avoid loud noises: Refrain from using cell phones or making loud noises inside the temple premises.
17. Ask for permission before taking part in rituals: If you wish to participate in any rituals or ceremonies during your visit, ask for permission from temple staff beforehand.
18. Do not bring pets: Most sacred sites do not allow pets inside, so be sure to leave your furry friends at home during your visit.
19. Keep an open mind and be respectful of different beliefs: Even if the religious traditions and practices are different from your own, show respect and refrain from making judgments while visiting a sacred site.
20. Thank temple staff before leaving: Before departing the Great Buddha site, take a moment to thank the temple staff for their hospitality and allowing you to visit this sacred place.