Kamakura Great Buddha Complete Travel Guide
The Great Buddha of Kamakura, a large bronze Amida Buddha statue at Kotoku-in temple, is one of Japan's most recognizable landmarks and a straightforward add-on to any Kamakura day trip.
Quick Facts
Best Things to Do
- View the bronze Great Buddha (Amida Nyorai) from the front, then walk around to see it from the side and back.
- Pay the small extra fee to step inside the hollow statue and see how it was cast.
- Look for the giant bronze straw sandals near the statue, offered by pilgrims for the Buddha's travels.
- Combine the visit with nearby Hase-dera Temple, a short walk away, using the discounted combination ticket.
Tickets and Fees
Checked in July 2026: grounds admission is yen 300 for adults and yen 150 for children aged 6 to 12; going inside the statue is an extra yen 50 paid on site. A combined ticket with Hase-dera Temple has been offered for around yen 550. Entrance booths have historically been cash-only, so carry yen coins and small bills.
How to Get There
From Kamakura Station, take the Enoden Line to Hase Station, then walk about 7 minutes to the temple. Kamakura Station is reachable from Tokyo Station via the JR Yokosuka Line (about 1 hour) or from Shinjuku via the JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line.
Nearby Attractions
The Enoden Line continues on to Enoshima, so it is easy to combine the Great Buddha with a seaside island stop on the same day, and Yokohama Minato Mirai is about an hour away by train if you want to add a modern waterfront stop too.
Book Before You Go
Use official information for opening hours and ticket rules, then book tours or tickets only when they fit your route.