Kotoku-in (Kamakura Daibutsu)

Address:
4-2-28 Hase, Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan 📍 (About a 7-minute walk from Hase Station on the Enoshima Electric Railway line)

Atmosphere/Location:
Kotoku-in is a Jodo sect temple famous for the "Kamakura Daibutsu" or Great Buddha of Kamakura, one of Japan's most iconic monuments 🗽. The temple exudes a serene and sacred atmosphere 🙏, surrounded by lush greenery 🌳, making visitors feel as though they've entered a tranquil and spiritual realm. The temple itself is relatively small compared to the grandeur of the 11.3-meter-tall bronze Buddha (13.35 meters including the base), which has stood outdoors since the 15th century after its original hall was destroyed by a typhoon 🌬️. The surrounding area features stone lanterns and Niou guardian statues at the entrance gate 🏛️, adding a nostalgic and sacred touch. Even on crowded days (especially in summer), the magnificence of the Great Buddha makes the visit worthwhile 😍.

Highlights:
- Kamakura Daibutsu: The large bronze statue of Amida Buddha, built in 1252, is the second-largest Buddha statue in Japan (after Todaiji Temple in Nara) and is designated as a National Treasure 🇯🇵. Traces of gold that once adorned the ears can still be seen ✨.
- Inside the Buddha: Visitors can enter the hollow interior of the statue (additional fee of 50 yen) to observe its ancient craftsmanship 🛠️. A rear window provides ventilation and light, though it may be closed on extremely hot days for safety ☀️.
- Waraji Sandals: Giant straw sandals measuring 1.8 meters in length hang to the right of the Buddha 🩴, crafted by children from Hitachiota City every three years as a symbol of hope for the Buddha to walk across Japan and protect its people 🙏.
- Niomon Gate: The temple's entrance gate features two Niou guardian statues (A-gyo and Un-gyo), relocated from another prefecture in the 18th century. It's a picturesque and powerful spot for photography ⚔️.

Average Cost Per Person:
- Temple admission: 300 yen (approximately $2.10) 🎟️
- Entry to the Buddha's interior: 50 yen (approximately $0.35) 🗿
- Food/drinks from nearby shops (e.g., Komachi-dori Street): 500-2,000 yen (approximately $3.50-$14) 🍜☕
- Train fare from Tokyo (JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line to Kamakura + Enoden to Hase): Around 1,000 yen ($7) or use the *Enoshima-Kamakura Freepass* for 1,640 yen ($11.50) 🚄

Rating:
4.5/5 ⭐
Kotoku-in is a must-visit destination for those passionate about Japanese history and culture 🌟. The Great Buddha of Kamakura is awe-inspiring and spiritually uplifting, offering a sense of peace and connection with nature 🙏. Exploring the interior of the Buddha is a rare and fascinating experience 🛠️. Points are slightly deducted due to the temple's small size, which may result in a relatively short visit (30-60 minutes), and the crowded atmosphere during peak times can detract from the tranquility 🙈. Visiting early in the morning is recommended to avoid crowds and fully embrace the serene ambiance. Don't forget to stop by Komachi-dori Street near Kamakura Station for delicious treats after your temple visit! 🍡

Tips:
- Visit early (before 9:00 AM) for peaceful photography and to avoid tourist crowds 📸.