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In the heart of Aichi Prefecture's Kōnan City, nestled within the quiet neighborhood of Koga-chō Daimon, stands a monumental figure that commands both reverence and curiosity. This is the Great Buddha of Hotei, an 18-meter-tall concrete statue of Yakushi Nyorai, the Medicine Buddha, whose serene visage has watched over the community since its completion in 1954. (asoview.com)
The genesis of this colossal statue is a tale of personal devotion and communal spirit. It was the vision of the late Mr. Maeda Hidenobu, a local acupuncturist who, at the age of 43, was inspired by a dream to create a symbol of healing and protection for the people. Pouring his personal resources into the project, Maeda dedicated five years to the construction of the Buddha, culminating in a figure that surpasses even the famed Great Buddha of Nara by two meters. (asoview.com)
Approaching the statue, one is struck by its imposing presence amidst the residential surroundings. The Buddha's elongated eyes and gentle smile exude a sense of calm, while the object cradled in its hand—a peach-like sphere—adds an element of mystery to its symbolism. The statue's concrete form, weathered by decades, stands as a testament to the enduring faith and determination of its creator.
In recent years, the Great Buddha of Hotei has garnered attention for an unexpected reason. A nearby railway crossing, when viewed from a particular angle, aligns perfectly with the statue's face, causing the crossing's red warning lights to appear as if the Buddha is donning a pair of vibrant red sunglasses. This optical illusion, captured and shared widely on social media, has affectionately earned the statue the nickname "Sunglasses Buddha," drawing visitors eager to witness and photograph this playful phenomenon. (likejapan.com)
Despite its growing popularity, the site retains a tranquil atmosphere. Visitors are reminded to respect the residential nature of the area, keeping noise to a minimum and ensuring safety, especially when attempting to capture the famed "sunglasses" view near the railway crossing. (likejapan.com)
The Great Buddha of Hotei stands not only as a religious icon but also as a symbol of the unique blend of tradition and modernity that characterizes Kōnan City. Its presence serves as a reminder of the profound impact that individual vision and community support can have in creating landmarks that transcend time, offering both spiritual solace and a touch of whimsy to all who visit.