Ibaraki: Ushiku Daibutsu – One of the tallest statues in the world

One Day Trip From Tokyo

Ushiku Daibutsu (牛久大仏, “Great Buddha of Ushiku”) is a massive bronze statue of Amitabha Buddha, located in Ushiku, Ibaraki Prefecture. It is one of the tallest statues in the world, standing at a total height of 120 meters (393 feet), including the base and lotus platform. As of 2023, it is the 5th tallest statue in the world. It weighs 4,003 tonnes.

Completed in 1993, the statue was built to commemorate the birth of Shinran, the founder of Jodo Shinshu (True Pure Land School of Buddhism).

The grounds around the statue feature a beautiful park, gardens, and a small zoo. In spring, the gardens bloom with seasonal flowers like cherry blossoms, pink moss and poppies, adding to the tranquil atmosphere. There’s also a pond where visitors can release carp as part of a Buddhist tradition.

photos: Junko Nagata ©Japanbyweb.com

The statue is hollow inside, allowing visitors to enter and explore various levels. The interior is divided into different floors, each with its own theme:

• Level 1 (World of Infinite Light and Life): An introduction to the significance of the statue.
• Level 2 (World of Gratitude and Thankfulness): Exhibits featuring Buddhist teachings and relics.
• Level 3 (World of the Lotus Sanctuary): A meditation area where 3,300 miniature Buddha statues are displayed.
• Level 4 (Observation Deck): Offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, with views extending to Tokyo on clear days.

Ushiku Station is the closest train station to Ushiku Daibutsu and can be reached from Tokyo in about an hour via the JR Joban Line. After you get off at the station there is a bus bound for the statue. The route takes 20-25 minutes. Weekend routes are every 1 hour and on weekdays and holidays every two hours.

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