Ushiku Daibutsu
Monument Gigantic bronze Buddha statue near Tokyo
Near Ushiku in Ibaraki, the Ushiku Daibutsu is a very tall bronze Buddha with internal elevators to observation decks, surrounding parkland and seasonal lotus displays that attract day visitors from Tokyo.
The Ushiku Daibutsu is a large bronze statue of Amitabha Buddha located in Ushiku, Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan, standing to a total height of about 120 meters. It was completed and opened to the public in 1993.
Inside the statue visitors ascend by elevator to an observation platform at roughly 85 meters, where there are panoramic views over the surrounding park and countryside. The base contains exhibition space with Buddhist displays and the surrounding grounds include ponds, walking paths and landscaped gardens.
Constructed in the late 20th century and inaugurated in 1993, the monument was built as a modern devotional structure and as a center for Buddhist education and reflection. Since opening it has functioned as both a religious site and a tourist attraction.
The statue stands in Ushiku city in Ibaraki Prefecture, northeast of Tokyo, set within a purpose-built park easily reached by road and regional rail connections.
- Height and access: With a total height of about 120 meters (including base), the statue is one of the tallest bronze figures in the world and includes public access to an indoor observation level.
What to See #
- Observation deck: An internal elevator-served observation platform located approximately 85 meters above ground that offers panoramic views across the surrounding park and countryside.
- Museum and exhibition space: A small museum and exhibition space within the statue base displaying Buddhist artifacts and providing background on construction and religious significance.
How to Get to Ushiku Daibutsu #
From Tokyo, take the Joban Line to Ushiku Station (about 45-60 minutes), then a short taxi ride (roughly 10-15 minutes) to the park. Some buses run from the station on event days.
Tips for Visiting Ushiku Daibutsu #
- Climb to the observation deck (around 85 m) for unobstructed views; weekends are busiest, so weekday mornings are quieter.
- Combine a visit with a trip to nearby Ushiku's park and gardens; the grounds include koi ponds and walking paths that are pleasant in spring and autumn.
Best Time to Visit Ushiku Daibutsu #
Visit during spring or autumn for the best combination of weather and garden color; the site is accessible year-round but hours and events vary seasonally.
Weather & Climate near Ushiku Daibutsu #
Ushiku Daibutsu's climate is classified as Humid Subtropical - Humid Subtropical climate with hot summers (peaking in August) and cold winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -2°C to 29°C. Abundant rainfall (1342 mm/year), wettest in September.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 9°C and lows of -2°C. Moderate rainfall (41 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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February
February is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of -1°C. Moderate rainfall (62 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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March
March is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 2°C. Regular rainfall (94 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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April
April is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 8°C. Significant rainfall (115 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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May
May is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 13°C. Significant rainfall (120 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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June
June is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 17°C. Significant rainfall (159 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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July
July is mild with highs of 27°C and lows of 20°C. Significant rainfall (132 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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August
August is the warmest month with muggy conditions (dew point 23°C). Significant rainfall (130 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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September
September is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 19°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (184 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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October
October is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 12°C. Significant rainfall (174 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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November
November is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 6°C. Regular rainfall (85 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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December
December is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 0°C. Moderate rainfall (46 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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