Kamakura’s Great Buddha – revisited

1981

Back when I was second year college, I had the opportunity to be join a cultural- exchange program with a Japanese University.  Part of our trip was a visit to the Daibutsu, the GREAT BUDDHA in Hase, in Kamakura.

The Big or Great Buddha in Hase is one of the main tourist attractions in Kamakura.  It is is a bronze statue of Amida Buddha. With a height of 13.35 meters, it is the second tallest bronze Buddha statue in Japan, surpassed only by the statue in Nara’s Todaiji Temple. It is on the grounds of Kotokuin Temple.

This Daibutsu was cast in 1252 and originally located inside a large temple hall. However, typhoons and a tidal wave in the 14th and 15th centuries destroyed the temple buildings multiple times. It is has been standing in the open air since 1495.

I have always liked the serenity of the place and have always enjoyed looking at the peaceful face of the Great Buddha.

Since my first visit, I have gone back with my mama, some relatives from the USA, and other visiting friends.  But those were visits some years ago

Last week, April 18, 2010, I had the chance to revisit the Daibutsu .   This time it was because my cousin and her family were in town.  Their friends were so kind enough to take all of us for the long drive to Kamakura.

2010

Of course, this time, I made sure to make my “jump-shot” as part of my new concept of “jumping all over the tourist spots in Japan.”

I do not know why, but this Daibutsu has always fascinated me – maybe it is the inner peace in his face that makes me keep coming back… even after so many years.  That I think is the peace that all of us must have in our hearts and minds.

If you are in Japan, and you have the time to visit Kamakura.  Please do not forget to pass by and say “hello” to the Great Buddha in Hase.