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Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Ushiku Daibutsu is a huge bronze statue located in Ushiku City, Ibaraki Prefecture, and was completed in 1993. At approximately 120 meters tall, it was the tallest statue in the world at the time of its completion (it has since become a landmark that ranks alongside other famous Buddha statues around the world). The interior is hollow, and elevators allow visitors to access each floor of the statue. A large garden and seasonal flowers are arranged around the statue, combining Buddhist elements with the appeal of a tourist facility. From the observation deck, visitors can enjoy the surrounding countryside and, on clear days, the panoramic view stretches into the distance.
Highlights
- The power of the statue itself: The overwhelming scale of the 120m-tall Great Buddha can be felt up close.
- Interior tour: Exhibits on multiple floors, sightseeing by elevator, and views from the observation deck (roughly mid- to upper part).
- Gardens and seasonal flowers: A walking path where you can enjoy seasonal flowers such as tulips and cherry blossoms in spring, hydrangeas and roses in early summer, and cosmos in autumn.
- Petting plaza/small animal corner: A popular spot for families with children (fees may apply and may be open seasonally).
- Place of worship: This is a place where you can quietly worship and experience a religious atmosphere.
- Museum, shop and cafe: There are plenty of souvenirs, Buddhist-related exhibits and rest areas.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Train + Bus: Approximately 15-20 minutes by bus from the East Exit of JR Joban Line's Ushiku Station (subject to special buses and frequency). We recommend checking bus schedules in advance.
- By car: Approximately 10-15 minutes from Ushiku Ami IC on the Joban Expressway (depending on traffic conditions). There is a paid parking lot on the premises.
- Taxi: Approximately 15 minutes by taxi from Ushiku Station.
- Note: Public transportation may have limited service at certain times, especially in the evenings and early mornings on weekdays. Please check official information as special buses may operate during events and long weekends.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short tour: 30 minutes to 1 hour (if you only want to see the exterior and take photos).
- Standard tour: 1.5 to 2.5 hours (including interior tour, observation deck, garden walk, souvenir shop and cafe).
- If you want to take your time, it will take more than 3 hours (if you want to look at the exhibits in detail, walk around the area, and enjoy the interactive area).
Nearby spots
- Ushiku Chateau (Ushiku Chateau) — A nearby winery and Western-style building where you can enjoy food and wine.
- Ami Premium Outlets — A large outlet mall with great shopping options (approximately 20-30 minutes by car).
- Lake Kasumigaura — A vast lake and the surrounding nature make it ideal for cycling and scenic sightseeing.
- Tsukuba area (Tsukuba Expo Center, Mount Tsukuba, etc.) - An area within a 30-50 minute drive and easy to visit.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: Weekends, national holidays, the spring tourist season, Golden Week, summer vacation, and the Obon period can be busy, and you may have to wait to enter the observation deck or the parking lot may be crowded. Please allow yourself plenty of time when visiting.
- Manners: As this is also a Buddhist temple, please be quiet inside the building and in the worship area. Please observe basic manners such as not touching exhibits or Buddhist altar items, and only disposing of trash in designated areas.
- Clothing and weather: The perimeter of the statue and the gardens are outdoors. Dress warmly against the sun and heat in summer, and windy and cold weather in winter. The ground can be slippery on rainy days.
- Pets: Some facilities may have restrictions on pets, so please check in advance.
- Barrier-free access/strollers: While elevators are available inside, there may be restrictions due to the width of some passageways and the structure of the exhibits. It is best to inquire in advance about wheelchair access and availability.
- Check the latest information: Opening hours, admission fees, events, temporary closures, etc. may change. Please check the official website or local site for the latest information before visiting.
(Note) We recommend checking the official website for detailed opening hours, admission fees, access timetables, etc. There are also many photo spots and seasonal events, so it's a good idea to plan your visit accordingly.
