The Great Buddha of Kamakura : A Must Visit Place!

 credits to: andrusm.deviantart.com

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Whatever your religion may be, one must learn how to respect each. Be it Christianity, Islam or Buddhism, one must practice courtesy of shrines and temples, churches and mosques. Buddhism being one of Japan’s main religions, it is no wonder that the Great Buddha of Kamakura is considered as a sacred destination by all tourists alike, local and foreign, Buddhist or not.

The Great Buddha of Kamakura is a giant cast-in-bronze statue, known by most with its popular name Daibutsu. It is considered a National Treasure and is founded circa 1243. Its official name is Taiisan Kotokuin Shojo Senji and is seated on the holy grounds of Kotukuin. The statue centuries old, it was historical figure Yoritomo Minamoto who dreamt of building it after seeing the Great Buddha Statue of Todaiji in Nara. Unfortunately, he died without seeing his wish materialize.

 credits : google maps

credits :  traveljapanblog.com

 

A court lady though, by the name of Inada, decided to make his dream a reality and by 1243, the halls and the statue itself were completed. However, in the storm of 1247, the wooden Buddha was completely destroyed and a new one was commissioned, one made in bronze. Daibutsu fell into disrepair through the centuries and it fell to some priests to restore it. Without their efforts, the statue seated in lotus position and serenely meditating would’ve been broken by now if the erosion and neglect pervaded.

 credits : gojapango.com

The statue is open for viewing and entry costs 200 yen for adults and 150 yen for children. Everyone visiting Japan should not miss the spectacular sight of the calm Buddha against the backdrop of sloping hills and verdant trees.

 credits : japan-guide.com

So the next time you'd visit the wonderful country of Japan, take time to visit and appreciate the beauty of the Great Buddha of Kamakura! What about you? What place in Japan would you like to visit if ever you're given the chance to do so?

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