大慶寺

Daikei-ji is a Buddhist temple in Kamakura featuring a monumental bronze statue of Amida Buddha that stands about 11.4 meters tall and weighs 93 tons. The grounds also contain smaller shrines and prayer halls arranged throughout the complex.

Construction of the temple began in 1252 under the direction of the shogun Minamoto Yoritomo and underwent multiple reconstructions. The final completion came in 1452 after several renovations shaped the building into its current form.

The temple displays traditional giant straw sandals near the Buddha statue, reflecting a Japanese custom of offering prayers for safe travels. These votive gifts show how visitors express their hopes and wishes at this place.

The temple is most easily reached by taking the Enoshima Electric Railway from Kamakura to Hase Station, followed by a walk of about seven minutes. The paths on the grounds are clearly marked and easy to navigate for most visitors.

Visitors can enter the interior of the bronze statue and observe the medieval construction methods of this elaborate work up close. This provides a rare look at the craftsmanship techniques used to create this monumental sculpture.

Location: Kamakura

GPS coordinates: 35.33283,139.52142

Latest update: December 14, 2025 16:44