Kotoku-in (Great Buddha of Kamakura)
Kotoku-in (Great Buddha of Kamakura): Hours, Address, Kotoku-in (Great Buddha of Kamakura) Reviews: 4.5/5
Kotoku-in (Great Buddha of Kamakura)
Kotoku-in (Great Buddha of Kamakura)
4.5
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Monday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Tuesday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Wednesday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Thursday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Friday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sunday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
About
This nearly 47-foot bronze statue of Amida Buddha is the second largest Buddha statue in Japan.
Suggested duration
2-3 hours
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The area
Address
Best nearby
Restaurants
2,488 within 3 miles

Kebab Kamakura
215
0.1 mi$ • Fast Food • Turkish • Middle Eastern

Sometaro
57
0.3 mi$$ - $$$ • Japanese • Asian • Vegetarian Friendly

Sushi Yamamoto
20
0.2 mi$$ - $$$ • Japanese • Seafood • Sushi

Kaseiro
33
0.1 mi$$$$ • Chinese

Kaedena
30
0.2 mi$$ - $$$ • Japanese • Asian

Kamakura Gelato
32
0.2 mi$ • Dessert

Woof Curry
21
0.3 mi$$ - $$$ • Japanese • Asian

Cafe Terrace Itsuki Garden
36
0.3 mi$$ - $$$ • Barbecue

Kohana Sushi
25
0.3 mi$$ - $$$ • Japanese • Sushi • Asian

Kamakura Hase Coffee & Galette
16
0.1 mi$$ - $$$ • Cafe
Attractions
516 within 6 miles

Kamakura Museum of Literature
122
0.2 miSpeciality Museums

Amanawa Shimmei Shrine
15
0.2 miReligious Sites

Hase-dera Temple
1,727
0.3 miHistoric Sites • Religious Sites

Former Residence of Yasunari Kawabata
9
0.2 miHistoric Sites

Kamakura Noh Butai
3
0.3 miTheaters • Educational sites

Daibutsukiritoshi
39
0.3 miHiking Trails

Kosokuji Temple
39
0.3 miReligious Sites

Benten Cave
7
0.3 miCaverns & Caves • Religious Sites

Yoshiya Nobuko Memorial
10
0.3 miHistory Museums

Jizodo
5
0.3 miReligious Sites
Contribute
Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
3,033 reviews
Excellent
1,368
Very good
1,228
Average
404
Poor
29
Terrible
4
Naturelover33
Tokyo, Japan31 contributions
Solo
Been there with friends last week.not so far from the station best place to spend your time with friends and also with family as well .located on the peaceful environment.you can get there souvenirs shops and many others shops and restaurant near the street.highly recommended ❤️
Written June 6, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
David N
Boston, MA175 contributions
Small grounds, easy to access, and it's an iconic place to visit and take a selfie. The only more impressive Buddha in Japan is in Nara.
Written June 3, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
EuroEri
Tokyo Prefecture, Japan364 contributions
Family
Easy and fun stop with ample parking options close by. The Buddha grounds were pretty and Sakura were in bloom. Cost for entry was low. For three people and one free child it was ¥750. Not a far walk past entry to see the buddha. Toilets within the grounds too.
*due to covid you currently can not go inside the Buddha
*due to covid you currently can not go inside the Buddha
Written March 26, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
wesleywaisiu
Singapore, Singapore2,257 contributions
Family
The Buddha isn’t that huge, although it is very old and full of history. It is also very far from the train station, need to walk 20 mins to reach. It’s slow as full of tourist and very crowded. It also charge 300 yen per person to go in, but once you bought the ticket , no one will check your ticket at the entrance...... I don’t recommend to go there.
Written June 28, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Della G
Coquitlam, Canada808 contributions
Very much a highlight of anyone's visit to Kamakura. Not the largest buddha in Japan but it is very much a magnificent serene statue. It is located in a wonderful temple setting. We visited Kamakura before Covid 19 and we were able to visit the interior of the buddha for a nominal fee. The temple compound is quite massive so allow a few hours to enjoy the surroundings.
Written June 24, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Njeri W
Atlanta, GA126 contributions
Visiting the Great Buddha is a must if you are enjoying a day (or more) in Kamakura. The size of the statue, especially given the time it was made, will humble even the most difficult-to-impress observer. It is also possible to go inside the statue for very nominal fee (something like 10 yen) and it is cool to see how the head is reinforced from the inside. The grounds are also beautiful and provide a serene backdrop to either walk around or sit and enjoy the statue.
Written June 20, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Dioc
Athens, GA180 contributions
What a wonderful day. We took the train from Tokyo to Kamakura to see the Great Buddha. We walked through the town to the Buddha so we could see the sights. It was Amazing. Cast in 1252 when Kamakura was an Ancient Capitol of Japan (1192-1333). The statue is 36 feet in height, weighs 93 tons and is the third largest Bronze Buddha in Japan. For just a small amount extra you can go into the Buddha and see how it was made in sections and locked together.
Written June 12, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Mick
Bangkok, Thailand131 contributions
I was very lucky as I got to see the Daibutsu (Giant Buddha) statue during the covid Pandemic and the weather was perfect. Only a hand full of people. Easy to get to from both Hase tram station and from Kamakura station. I didn't get to climb the stairs inside the statue as access was closed temporarily but the view of this magnificent Buddha was very inspiring. Do not visit Kamakura and miss this.
Written June 10, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Komator
Barcelona, Spain664 contributions
Kotoku-in temple is famous for its Great Buddha (Daibutsu). And its worth. The Buddha is quite big (13m tall) and (at least when I was there it wasn't too crowded). If you pay 20yen you can get inside. It's very curious.
It's the highlight of Kamakura
It's the highlight of Kamakura
Written May 26, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
979midiy
Sydney, Australia91 contributions
Friends
You can walk into inside of the Buddha at the additional cost of ¥20 (¥300 to enter kotokuin) nothing much to see but when I enter, I felt like going into total darkness but in minutes, I noticed it wasn't dark at all. The magic of human eyes!
* Due to COVID-19, this activity is suspended.
* Due to COVID-19, this activity is suspended.
Written April 1, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Emilia J
3 contributions
Hi, I want to bring my mom to this wonderful place. Her feet isnt so strong for long distance walking or to take stairs. Is there many stairs that she need to climb to be able reach the statue area? We will be taking train from Shinjuku Station. Do you have any suggestion, where should we go first from Hase Station, to Hasedera or Kotokuin first? I prefer the road that doesnt contain too much of climbing. thanks all for your advice
cazbeckett
Sydney, Australia82 contributions
It's practically flat from Hase Station to the Great Buddha (less than 1 kilometre from the station - Hasedera is closer). Only a handful of steps at Kotokuin itself but you can easily see the statue without walking up them.
Hasedera however has many more stairs to climb - the temple complex is arranged in tiers as it's on a hill. There's 3 sets of stairs before you reach the main temple hall (about 2 flights in total I guess??). There are more stairs above that if you want an ocean view. But there's some interesting things on the lowest level (including a cave).
I visited Kotokuin first because a massive crowd peeled off to go to Hasedera and I was happy to get away from them. It really depends on your preference.
Florence F
Bengaluru, India3 contributions
How much does the tram from train station to Buddha cost ?
Chris G
Chesterfield, UK35 contributions
Yep around 190yen. Discount tickets which include access to the attractions are avaiable. Also if you have a Suica or Pasmo card (available to purchase everywhere) you can use those to travel on the enoshima electric railway (also very useful for Tokyo metro line and buses etc).....if you have time then travel further down the line and visit the Enoshima sea candle too.. .great views of mount Fuji if it's a clear day!
院内でカメラスタンドを使ってもいいですかー?
issei418
Jakarta, Indonesia148 contributions
境内では使用可だと思いますが、混雑しているのでカメラスタンドを使うのは苦労するでしょう。
ProlificTravelr
San Francisco, CA2 contributions
My father visited this Buddha more than a decade ago. At that time they were able to go inside the statute and look out of the Buddha's eyes. Is that still possible? Thank you so much!
Reg J
Sydney, Australia496 contributions
Yes, you can inside the Buddha for an extra charge. Lovely, peaceful grounds with a gift shop and refreshments.
Nette M
Paranaque, Philippines3 contributions
Hi, we are staying in Yokohama, Sakuragicho. pls give us a detailed instruction how to get to the Great Buddha by train, thank you so much for any help.
Dawn14786
Gurugram (Gurgaon), India77 contributions
Best is to travel by metro train (JR). You can board JR from Sakuragicho station. As far as train tickets are concerned, it's better to have the train pass (Suica or any other). It can be obtained from the ticket machines deployed at the station itself. Get it for 1000 yen, of which 500 yen would be deducted as the security deposit (which is refundable when you return the card on your departure from Japan). You can refer the following path to reach The Great Buddha.
1. Board the train from Sakuragicho station at the Negishi Line to reach Ofuna station. I think it runs from platform number 3.
2. Get off the train at Ofuna Station. Board the train from Ofuna station at Yokosuka line to reach Kamakura station.
3. Get off the train at Kamakura station. Board the train from here at the Enoshima Dentetsu Line to reach Hase station.
4. Get off the train at Hase station. You have to walk from here for about 650m to reach Great Buddha.
Don't worry about getting lost at all. Google maps works way better here and most importantly, Japanese people are very helpful.
Note:
1. Reacharge Suica with enough yen before commencing your journey as you will find that most of the places accept Suica for any purchase. Do carry some amount of cash as well.
2. Have a working internet connection on your cellular device along with the google maps app. It's way too useful too not get lost.
3. If you like to walk, you can reach the Great Buddha from Kamakura Station itself. It's about 1.2 km from there. As weather is good most of the time in Jaoan, you won't feel uncomfortable.
Hope this helps. Have a wonderful stay in Japan.
Familytraveler1995
United States1 contribution
Is it possible to hire a private car/guide to take us from our hotel in Tokyo to the great Buddha? We have an elderly mother who cant do much walking, so would rather avoid the train stations etc. and save her energy for walking at statue and a little shopping. can a car drop us right at the Buddha, or is it a ways from the entrance? we have a group of 6 with two young children as well, so just trying to figure out the easiest way and door to door service as much as possible. Thanks!
Reg J
Sydney, Australia496 contributions
We found it better to catch the train there and the monorail back. That way, you get to see the views of the sea and surrounding areas.
kimbro1223
Chapel Hill, NC6 contributions
Is this place open on January 2nd? Or is it typically closed for the holidays? Is it typically crowded if it is open?
traveliguana
Budapest, Hungary516 contributions
Open and if you go in tourist season the answer is yes
Celine L
Singapore1,129 contributions
Hi, can I know how exactly did you go there? I will be taking JR from Tokyo. I am quite confused, can you help? Thanks alot!
Knight298570
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia854 contributions
Hi Celine, if you're taking JR from Tokyo, you can take
1. JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line(Via Yokosuka Line)' bound for ZUSHI from Shinjuku first to Kamakura station.
2. Then from Kamakura station, switch to Enoshima Electric Railway bound for FUJISAWA to Hase station.
3. Kotokuin Temple is within some walking distance from Hase station.
EcoLoft
Bangkok, Thailand
I heard that the Great Buddha of Kamakura is covered up by scaffolding for cleaning and inspection from January 13, 2016 to March 10, 2016.
When did you visit there?
Did they finish the inspection?
aljohn P
Honolulu, HI16 contributions
We visited the temple on Mar. 11, 2016, a day after the cleaning/inspection was done. There were no signs of scaffolding or work.
Frequently Asked Questions about Kotoku-in (Great Buddha of Kamakura)
- Kotoku-in (Great Buddha of Kamakura) is open:
- Sun - Sat 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- We recommend booking Kotoku-in (Great Buddha of Kamakura) tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 48 Kotoku-in (Great Buddha of Kamakura) tours on Tripadvisor
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Kotoku-in (Great Buddha of Kamakura):
- Kamakura Half Day Walking Tour with Kotokuin Great Buddha (From $97.17)
- Kamakura Full-Day Private Trip (Tokyo departure) with Government-Licensed Guide (From $113.43)
- Kamakura Old Capital Walking Tour with the Great Buddha (From $74.41)
- Private Full-Day Kamakura Tour of Tokyo and Hokoku-ji Temple (From $234.42)
- Kamakura Day Trip from Tokyo with a Local: Private & Personalized (From $369.02)
- Hotels near Kotoku-in (Great Buddha of Kamakura):
- (0.22 mi) Guesthouse Shibafu
- (0.29 mi) Diamond Kamakura Bettei Society
- (0.26 mi) Casa Kamakura Espresso Pub&Bed
- (0.30 mi) Taisenkaku
- (0.49 mi) WeBase KAMAKURA Resort Hotel & Hostel
- Restaurants near Kotoku-in (Great Buddha of Kamakura):
- (0.00 mi) Igarashi Shoten
- (0.13 mi) Kebab Kamakura
- (0.10 mi) Mrs. Pot Harada
- (0.10 mi) Uetsuchiya
- (0.10 mi) Umenoki
- Attractions near Kotoku-in (Great Buddha of Kamakura):
- (0.03 mi) Orikasa Shoten
- (0.10 mi) Toshimaya Hasedaibutsumae
- (0.17 mi) Kamakura Museum of Literature
- (0.17 mi) Amanawa Shimmei Shrine
- (0.17 mi) Kamakura Hase Shiori-an