"Kotokuin Temple" Kamakura Things to Do Tip by Rabbityama

Although the temple is Kotokuin, most just call it the Great Buddha (Daibutsu), because this is where Kamakura's famous Buddha is located! The 121 ton Buddha took ten years to finish (starting in 1252). The main building of the temple once housed the Buddha (like Todaiji in Nara) but the temple was toppled in 1369 and never rebuilt. The Buddha that you see today is the exact same Buddha that was built in the 13th century: It has survived many floods and earthquakes, making it all the more impressive.

There are some other things here aside from the Buddha, as well. Behind the Buddha is a small but pretty cedar forest and temple building from Korea, taken during WWII. It is said that the hall is supposed to be returned to Korea.

Entrance to Kotokuin is 200 yen. You can also enter the Buddha for an additional 20 yen. Personally I think it's worth entering to see more closely how it was made and simply because it's interesting. Plus, the temple entrance fee is already very cheap considering its fame.

Address: 4-2-28 Hase
Phone: 146-722-0703
Website: http://www.kotoku-in.jp/