The Great Buddha of Kamakura is a classic attraction you have to visit when you come to Kamakura! As you enter Kotoku-in Temple, the enormous bronze statue of Amida Buddha sits quietly outdoors, and the first sight of it is truly impressive. The Great Buddha is about 13 meters tall and weighs 121 tons. After earthquakes and a tsunami destroyed the Buddha hall, it became the unique open-air sight it is today. For a small fee, you can also go inside the Great Buddha and see the exquisite casting techniques of ancient times. After your visit, it’s also convenient to walk over to Hasedera Temple and see two of Kamakura’s classic attractions in one trip!
The Great Buddha of Kamakura at Kotoku-in Temple | Review by wendy
Other Reviews by wendy
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Nagoya Port Building
A 63-meter-tall white building that immediately catches your eye when you visit Garden Pier at Nagoya Port. Its unique exterior, designed to resemble a white sailing ship, is known as a landmark of Nagoya Port. On the top 7th floor is an observation room with a sweeping panorama from 53 meters above ground, offering wide views of the open Nagoya Port to the south and the high-rise buildings around Nagoya Station to the north.
When visiting Nagoya Port, consider making time to explore the Nagoya Port Building. It's a landmark of Nagoya Port, with an observation deck and museum inside where you can take in views of the harbor from above. The surrounding area is spacious and great for a leisurely walk in the sea breeze. There are also air-conditioned areas and seats under the pier, so when you get tired, you can sit down with friends, chat, and quietly enjoy the ocean view. It feels especially relaxing. For a laid-back day trip, you can also visit the nearby maritime museum and other attractions without rushing, and comfortably enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of Nagoya Port.
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Nagoya City Office Main Building
The current Nagoya City Office’s main building is the 3rd one, built as a project to commemorate the Showa Emperor’s coronation and completed in 1933. The design concept was “a modern style based on Japanese essence” with a modern building topped with the Japanese-style tile roof, which was chosen in a public contest.
The Aichi Prefectural Government Office (Nagoya City Hall) is a building with a great deal of historic charm and has been designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan. Completed in 1938, its exterior blends modern Showa-era architecture with traditional Japanese elements. The tall central tower and green-tiled roof are especially distinctive. It looks as if it's wearing a crown, which is why this style is known as the "Crown Style." You can spot its unique silhouette from a distance while walking through central Nagoya, both stately and elegant. If you like historic architecture or photography, I highly recommend coming here to appreciate the architectural beauty left behind by the Showa era!
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Shikemichi Townscape Preservation District
Centered on Shikemichi, a street in Nishi Ward, Nagoya, the Shikemichi Townscape Preservation District extends around Ofunamachi-dori. The Shikemichi area is a castle town that prospered thanks to merchants using water transport on the Horikawa Canal, which was excavated in 1610 along with the construction of Nagoya Castle.
I can't believe such a charming old street is hidden in central Nagoya! The Shikemichi Townscape Preservation District retains many traditional storehouses and machiya townhouses along the way. Walking through it feels like you've suddenly traveled back to the Edo period. The old buildings blend with the modern cityscape, giving the walk a special charm. The area isn't small, so it really takes some time to explore it at a leisurely pace. Slow down and admire the details of the streets as you go. It's perfect for a relaxing cultural stroll and offers a glimpse of a different side of Nagoya, away from the bustling downtown area.
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