How to get to the Kamakura Great Buddha from Tokyo?

Take the JR Yokosuka Line from Tokyo Station to Kamakura Station (about 1 hour), then transfer to the Enoden Line to Hase Station. The Great Buddha is a 7-minute walk from Hase Station and is located inside Kotoku-in Temple.

What is special about the Kamakura Great Buddha?

The Kamakura Great Buddha is a monumental outdoor bronze statue dating back to the 13th century, standing over 13 meters tall. It is a symbol of Kamakura and a significant cultural and religious site.

When is the best time to visit the Kamakura Great Buddha?

The Great Buddha can be visited year-round. Spring (cherry blossoms) and autumn (foliage) are especially popular.

Are there any tips for visiting the Kamakura Great Buddha?

Visit early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid crowds. Respect the sacredness of the site and the surrounding area.

Is a reservation required to visit the Kamakura Great Buddha?

No reservation is needed to visit the Kamakura Great Buddha. Entry is available during opening hours.

What are the opening hours of the Kamakura Great Buddha?

From April to September, the site is open from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. From October to March, it is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Last admission is 15 minutes before closing.

What is the entrance fee for the Kamakura Great Buddha?

The entrance fee is 300 yen for adults, and 150 yen for elementary, junior high, and high school students (admission fee).

Kamakura Great Buddha – Iconic Symbol of Kamakura

Overview: History & Significance

The Kamakura Great Buddha (Daibutsu) is a monumental outdoor bronze statue of Amida Buddha, located in Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture. Dating back to the 13th century and standing over 13 meters tall, it is one of Japan’s most famous and revered Buddhist statues. The serene expression and open-air setting make it a must-see for visitors to Kamakura.

About Kotoku-in’s Buddhist Sect

Kotoku-in (formal name: Daiizan Kotoku-in Shojosen-ji) is a Buddhist temple of the Jodo sect, founded by Honen (1133–1212). Honen taught that anyone—regardless of virtue, gender, age, or social status—can be saved by sincerely reciting “Namu Amida Butsu” (I take refuge in Amida Buddha). This practice ensures the protection of Amida Buddha in this life and a welcome into the Pure Land after death, forming the core of Jodo sect teachings.

How to Get to Kamakura Great Buddha (Last updated: May 12, 2025)

Departure Station	Route	Estimated Time	Estimated Cost
Tokyo	JR Yokosuka Line → Kamakura Station → Enoden Line to Hase Station (walk 7 min)	About 65 min	¥940 + ¥260
Shinjuku	JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line → Kamakura Station → Enoden Line to Hase Station	About 65 min	¥940 + ¥260
Yokohama	JR Yokosuka Line → Kamakura Station → Enoden Line to Hase Station	About 35 min	¥350 + ¥260
Enoshima	Enoden Line → Hase Station	About 20 min	¥260

From Hase Station (Enoden Line), the Great Buddha is a 7-minute walk. The route is well signposted and easy to follow.

The Kamakura Great Buddha is located near other famous sites such as Hasedera Temple and Komachi Street, making it easy to combine visits in a single day.

Official Website

For more details, please visit the official website.

Visit Official Site

Activity Information

Location: Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
Visiting Hours: April–September: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
October–March: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Last admission is 15 minutes before closing.
Recommended Season: All year round, with cherry blossoms in spring and autumn foliage as popular times.
Notes: No reservation is needed. The site may be crowded during weekends and holidays. Respect the sacredness of the statue and the surrounding area.
Entrance Fee: ¥300 for adults, ¥150 for elementary, junior high, and high school students

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