Usuki Stone Buddhas, Buddhist sculptures in Usuki, Japan.
Description
The Usuki Stone Buddhas consist of 61 Buddhist statues carved into ignimbrite rock walls that run along a hillside. The individual figures reach heights of up to approximately 4 meters and display detailed carved representations of different Buddhist deities.
History
The stone carvings originated during the late Heian through Kamakura periods, spanning the 12th and 13th centuries. They represent some of the earliest Buddhist rock-carved sculptures in Japan and reflect how this artistic practice developed over time.
Culture
The stone figures depict Dainichi Buddha and other Buddhist deities placed in four distinct groups across the hillside. Visitors can observe how these groupings reflect long-standing religious beliefs through their spatial arrangement.
Practical
The site sits on a hillside and is best explored on foot, allowing time to visit all four carved groupings. Wearing sturdy footwear is advisable since pathways traverse uneven ground.
Did you know?
These carvings became the first rock-carved Buddhist sculptures in Japan to receive National Treasure status in 1995. This recognition reflects their exceptional craftsmanship and remarkable survival across the centuries.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Usuki).
Usuki Castle
5.2 km
Manju-ji
21 km
Hayasuihime-jinja
20.8 km
Ōita Art Museum
21.1 km
Nagahama-jinja
21.4 km
Compal Hall
21.5 km
Ryozen
19 km
うみたま体験パーク「つくみイルカ島」
18.1 km
Ōita Prefectural Art Center
20.4 km
Ōita Higher Commercial School
20.2 km
虹澗橋
14.8 km
Tetsudō-jinja
21.5 km
Saiki Stadium
20.3 km
Ōita Sports Club
16.1 km
龍原寺
4.3 km
Saiki Museum of Doppo Kunikida
18.8 km
和平市民公園
20.6 km
Tsutashima
20.5 km
Deusu-dō
20.9 km
Bungo Suidō Prefectural Natural Park
18 km
明治橋 (大分県)
9.3 km
鶴崎橋
17.6 km
細長橋
12.9 km
Saiki Castle
18.7 km
佐伯中央病院市民プール
20.7 km
Uenoharu Castle
20.4 km
Saiki toll gate
15.8 km
Check dam
18.3 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes