[For Seniors] Trivia Quiz & Fun Facts About the Great Buddha of Kamakura: Questions You'll Want to Share

1.8 meters

At Kotoku-in, a pair of large straw sandals perfectly sized for the feet of the Great Buddha of Kamakura are dedicated. These warazori were offered with prayers for visitors’ health and protection from illness, and each measures about 1.8 meters in length. Associated with the Great Buddha, this tradition dates back to the Edo period, and their sheer size draws the attention of those who visit. Seeing them up close, you can feel the prayers and wishes of people from long ago woven into them.

About 11 meters

The Great Buddha of Kamakura stands about 11.39 meters tall, overwhelming all who see it, and it is the only National Treasure in Kamakura.

cavity

The interior of the Great Buddha of Kamakura is hollow, and visitors can go inside. It is open to the public year-round from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The visiting hours for Kotoku-in vary by season, so please check the schedule before you go.

Kotoku-in (Kōtoku-in)

Kotoku-in is a temple whose principal image is the Great Buddha, which can be called a symbol of Kamakura. However, the temple’s founding priest and patron are unknown, and due to the scarcity of historical records regarding the circumstances of the statue’s creation, many details remain unclear.

every three years

The Great Buddha’s enormous straw sandals at Kotoku-in are remade every three years. They are dedicated with the wish that the Buddha can walk around the world to help those who suffer, making this a truly heartfelt traditional event. Many people take part in crafting the new sandals, and the effort plays an important role in strengthening community bonds.

Great Buddha of Nara

Japan’s three great Buddha statues are famous: the Great Buddha at Tōdai-ji in Nara, the Great Buddha at Kōtoku-in in Kamakura, and the former Great Buddha of Kyoto. The Nara Daibutsu is a colossal statue about 15 meters tall, built in the 8th century. It is indispensable when discussing Japan’s Buddhist culture and history. Along with the Kamakura Daibutsu, it is a popular tourist destination among many elderly visitors. The Kyoto Daibutsu was damaged by fire and no longer exists.

Minamoto no Yoritomo

It is said that the Great Buddha of Kamakura began with a plan by Minamoto no Yoritomo and his wife, who were moved after visiting the Great Buddha of Nara and decided to create a Great Buddha in Kamakura as well.