Gifu Daibutsu (Shoho-ji Temple)

Gifu Daibutsu (Shoboji)

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The Gifu Daibutsu is one of Japan's Three Great Buddhas, standing 13.7 meters tall. It's a unique Buddha statue crafted using a rare technique: a bamboo basket-like framework layered with clay, washi paper, lacquer, and gold leaf.

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National Treasure
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HighlightsOne of Japan's Three Great Buddhas, standing 13.7 meters tall
A unique Buddha statue crafted using a bamboo basket-like framework layered with clay, washi paper, lacquer, and gold leaf
Serene expression that inspires tranquility
Various Buddhist statues and paintings on display in the Daibutsu-den
A tangible connection to history

Basic Information

Address: 8 Daibutsu-cho, Gifu City, Gifu Prefecture Search for tourist attractions in Gifu

Access: Take a Gifu Bus from Gifu Station or Meitetsu Gifu Station toward Gifu Park and Nagara Bridge (e.g., Takatomi-bound) and get off at the "Gifu Park Rekishi Hakubutsukan-mae" bus stop. It's a 5-minute walk from there. Show route

Op.Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Cld.Days: None

Fee: Adults (high school students and above): ¥200 Children (elementary school students and above): ¥100

INFO: At the temple grounds' Daibutsu Kouhouen (Shohoji Kouhouen), you can enjoy a traditional Buddhist vegetarian meal called Fucha Ryori. Reservations are required at least two days in advance.

HP: http://gifu-daibutsu.com/

Overview

While not as famous as the Great Buddhas of Kamakura and Nara, the Gifu Daibutsu boasts a unique history and construction. As the largest "kago Daibutsu" (basket Buddha) made using a bamboo basket framework, and the largest dry lacquer Buddha in Japan, its charm is undeniable. Completed after 38 years of painstaking work, the Gifu Daibutsu's serene expression offers a sense of peace. Inside the Daibutsu-den (Great Buddha Hall), various Buddhist statues and paintings are on display, allowing visitors to experience a tangible connection to history. Completed in the Edo period, it's relatively newer compared to other Great Buddhas, showcasing the incorporation of advanced techniques of the time, giving it a distinct appeal. The Gifu Daibutsu is a symbolic landmark of Gifu City, beloved by many. Be sure to visit when you're in Gifu City!

Gifu Daibutsu (Shoho-ji Temple)

Highlights

Basic Information

Overview

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