About
In a corner of Ueno Onshi Park, atop a lush green hill, sits the tranquil face of a Great Buddha. Once, it was a seated Shakyamuni Buddha statue boasting a height of six meters, but due to repeated disasters and the effects of war, now only its serene expression remains.
This Great Buddha was erected in 1631 (Kanei 8) by Hori Naoyori, the lord of Murakami Domain in Echigo Province. Created from clay and plaster to pray for the repose of those who lost their lives in war, its form brought peace to the people of Edo. However, it collapsed in the earthquake of 1647 (Shoho 4), and thereafter was destined to be repeatedly rebuilt and destroyed.
During the Meireki era (1655–1658), it was reconstructed as a bronze Buddha by the itinerant monk Joun, and in 1698 (Genroku 11), a Buddha hall was built by Prince Kompon Hosshinnō, the chief priest of Kan’ei-ji Temple. However, it was struck by disasters many times, such as the fire in 1841 (Tenpo 12) and the great earthquake in 1855 (Ansei 2).
In the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923 (Taisho 12), the head finally fell off and the body was also damaged. Afterwards, plans for reconstruction could not be realized due to lack of funds, and during World War II, all parts except the face were requisitioned for metal under the Metal Collection Order.
In 1972 (Showa 47), the face, which had been kept at Kan’ei-ji Temple, was returned to its original place, resulting in its current form. Its gentle expression, interpreted as “not falling any further,” has made it popular among students taking entrance exams and job seekers as the “Success Buddha.”
Behind the Great Buddha towers a pagoda (Buddhist stupa) built in 1967 (Showa 42). This prayer tower enshrines the Medicine Buddha of Lapis Lazuli Light and the Bodhisattvas of Sunlight and Moonlight, serving as a spiritual support for visitors.
In spring, cherry blossoms bloom in profusion, and in autumn, the area is colored by autumn leaves. In this place, the Buddha’s gentle smile continues to bring peace to people’s hearts across generations.