Kotokuin Temple

Kotokuin Temple (高徳院) is home to Kamakura’s most iconic landmark: the Great Buddha (Daibutsu). Standing at approximately 13.35 meters and weighing a massive 121 tons, this monumental bronze statue—often mistakenly referred to as stone due to its weathered appearance—has served as the spiritual anchor of the city since the mid-13th century. It is a designated National Treasure and represents the Amida Buddha, cast in a meditative pose that has weathered centuries of both political upheaval and natural disasters.

The construction of the statue began in 1252 and took roughly ten years to complete. Unlike many other great projects of the era, the cost was not footed by the ruling shogunate, but rather by the collective efforts of the local community and the temple’s priests. Originally, the Daibutsu was housed inside a massive wooden temple hall. However, after several typhoons and a devastating tsunami in 1498 swept the building away, the Buddha was left seated in the open air. Rather than rebuild the hall, it was decided that the statue should remain under the sky—a setting that many believe adds to its profound sense of serenity and presence.

One of the more unique aspects of a visit to Kotokuin is the opportunity to step inside the Buddha. For a nominal fee of ¥50, visitors can enter the hollow interior of the statue to see the intricate bronze casting and brace work that has held it together for over 750 years. On the grounds, you’ll also find a pair of massive waraji (straw sandals) hanging on the wall—woven by children from Ibaraki Prefecture in the hopes that the Buddha will one day use them to walk across Japan and bring peace to the land.

Visitor Information
Address	4-2-28 Hase, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-0016 (Google Maps)
Opening Hours	8:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Until 5:00 PM Oct–Mar)
Price	General Admission: ¥300 / Entry inside Buddha: ¥50
Website	Visit Website

Access
Station / Stop	Line / Transport	Access Details
Hase Station	Enoden Railway	A pleasant 7-10 minute walk through the local shopping street.
Daibutsu-mae	Enoden Bus / Keikyu Bus	Take the bus from Kamakura Station (approx. 10 mins).