The Majestic Kotoku-in: Home of the Great Buddha
Experience serenity at Kotoku-in, home to the Great Buddha, a masterpiece of Japanese culture and a tranquil escape in Kamakura.
Nestled in the serene surroundings of Kamakura, Kotoku-in is a must-visit Buddhist temple famous for its towering bronze statue of the Great Buddha, a symbol of peace and enlightenment. Tourists can explore the tranquil gardens, learn about the temple's history, and immerse themselves in the spiritual atmosphere that has drawn visitors for centuries.
A brief summary to Kotoku-in
- 4 Chome-2-28 Hase, Kamakura, 4 Chome Hase, Kanagawa, 248-0016, JP
- +81467-22-0703
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 8 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 8 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 8 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 8 am-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy fewer crowds and a more peaceful atmosphere.
- Don't forget to bring your camera; the Great Buddha and gardens make for stunning photographs.
- Take your time to explore the surrounding areas, including the nearby temples and hiking trails.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as there is plenty of walking involved to fully enjoy the temple grounds.
- Check the weather before your visit; sunny days make the gardens and statue even more vibrant.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving from Hakone, set your GPS to 4 Chome-2-28 Hase, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-0016. The journey takes about 30-40 minutes depending on traffic. You will exit Hakone and take Route 1 towards Kamakura. Follow the signs to Kamakura and once you reach the city, look for signs directing you to Kotoku-in. There is parking available near the temple, but be mindful that it can get crowded on weekends and holidays.
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Public Transportation
To reach Kotoku-in by public transport, start by taking a train from Hakone-Yumoto Station. Board the Odakyu Line towards Odawara and transfer at Odawara Station to the JR Tōkaidō Line. Get off at Kamakura Station. From Kamakura Station, exit the station and take the Enoden Line (Enoshima Electric Railway) towards Hase Station. The ride takes about 5 minutes. Once you arrive at Hase Station, it’s a short 10-minute walk to Kotoku-in. Just follow the signs or ask locals for directions.
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Bus
Alternatively, you can take the bus from Hakone to Kamakura. Board a bus bound for Kamakura at the Hakone bus terminal. The journey takes about 1 hour. Once you reach Kamakura, transfer to a local bus or walk to Hase Station, which is about a 15-minute walk from the bus stop. From Hase Station, Kotoku-in is about a 10-minute walk.
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