About
In the vast plains of Ushiku City, Ibaraki Prefecture, there stands a towering statue of Buddha that seems to pierce the sky. Its height reaches 120 meters, and its majestic presence can be seen even from afar. This statue is formally known as the "Ushiku Amida Buddha" and was erected by Higashi Honganji, the head temple of the Higashi Honganji branch of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism. Its appearance is imbued with a compassionate smile, as if embracing all who visit.
At the feet of the Buddha spreads a Pure Land garden, where flowers bloom in abundance throughout the seasons. In spring, cherry blossoms, moss phlox, and poppies add vibrant colors; in summer, hydrangeas and blue salvias create a cool and refreshing atmosphere. In autumn, cockscombs and cosmos sway in the breeze, soothing the hearts of visitors. This garden is said to be modeled after the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss, and as one walks through it, a feeling of spiritual purification envelops the soul.
Stepping inside the Buddha, one finds five different worlds unfolding. On the first floor, the "World of Light," a single beam of light pierces the darkness, symbolizing the moment of liberation from earthly desires. On the second floor, the "World of Gratitude and Repayment," visitors can experience sutra copying and spend time in quiet reflection. The third floor, the "World of the Lotus Sanctuary," houses approximately 3,400 golden Buddha statues, allowing visitors to experience the brilliance of the Pure Land. On the fourth and fifth floors, the "Room of Vulture Peak," Buddha relics are enshrined, and from the observation deck 85 meters above ground, one can see the Kanto Plain, Mount Tsukuba, and, depending on the weather, even Tokyo Skytree and Mount Fuji.
Behind the Buddha, there is a small animal park where visitors can interact with rabbits and goats. Feeding the rabbits is especially popular with children, and the adorable animals bring comfort to all. On the monkey stage, the skillful performances of the monkeys elicit cheers from the audience.
At the end and beginning of the year, a countdown event called "Shusho-e" is held. On New Year's Eve, the gates open at 11 p.m., and after a Buddhist service by monks, 108 fireworks are launched at midnight. This number symbolizes the 108 earthly desires of humans, and the fireworks celebrate the start of a new year. Furthermore, the Buddha is illuminated in seven colors, and its magnificent figure stands out against the night sky. This spectacle leaves a deep impression on all who witness it.
The Ushiku Daibutsu is not just a tourist attraction; it is a place that offers peace of mind and healing to its visitors. Its overwhelming presence and the beauty woven by the surrounding nature can truly be called a recreation of the Pure Land. Those who visit are sure to forget the bustle of daily life and find something precious deep within their hearts.