Hanibe Gankutsu-in

Located in the northeastern area of Komatsu City, once known for its stone production. Inside a 150-meter-long cave opened in 1951 by sculptor Yuma Togata using a repurposed former quarry, many stone Buddha statues and more are enshrined, and its striking scenes have become a hot topic on social media in Japan and abroad.

Every work carved into the ceiling and walls is a highly artistic sculpture, each one created by stonecraft artisans using chisels. Built over what feels like an endless span of years, the site not only expresses a Buddhist worldview but also vividly depicts hell and paradise, with a level of craftsmanship that’s hard to look away from.

Outside, the “Shakyamuni Great Buddha,” themed around world peace, welcomes you. Planned in 1983 and still unfinished today, the sheer scale of its 15-meter-tall Buddha head is breathtaking!

This historic spot, which lets you feel the brilliance of Japanese Buddhist art and guides you into a mysterious world, is recommended for many visitors, regardless of nationality or religious tradition.