Ushiku Daibutsu Monument

Address: Ushiku Daibutsu, Ushiku, Ibaraki Prefecture 300-1288, Japan

Website: https://ushiku.com/

Hours: Typically 9:30am-5:00pm (last entry varies) - check official site for exact hours

Admission: Approx. 800-1000 JPY for adult admission (museum and observation deck) - check site for current pricing

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.

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.

• 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.