Daibutsu-ji Temple

Overview

Daibutsu-ji is a temple of the Jodo (Pure Land) sect in Ote-machi (formerly Jozuka-cho), Takaoka City, Toyama Prefecture, with the mountain name Hotoku-san. Within its grounds sits a seated bronze statue of Amida Nyorai, widely beloved as the Great Buddha of Takaoka. Cast with the finest skills of Takaoka, a city famed for metalwork, the Great Buddha holds a commanding presence in the heart of town while quietly welcoming visitors.

Highlights

• ●The renowned Great Buddha of Takaoka, a commanding seated bronze Amida Nyorai
• ●A statue embodying the advanced casting skills of metalworking Takaoka
• ●A calm Pure Land temple bearing the mountain name Hotoku-san
• ●A location within walking distance of Takaoka Station, easy to pair with city sightseeing

History

Daibutsu-ji itself has long walked its path as a Pure Land temple. Its centerpiece, the seated bronze Amida Nyorai known as the Great Buddha of Takaoka, was cast using the casting techniques for which copperware-famous Takaoka is renowned, and has been handed down as a symbol of local faith and pride. Sometimes ranked alongside the great Buddhas of Nara and Kamakura, its detailed origins and dating are best confirmed through the temple's notices or official information.

Map

36.7456, 137.0172 · Wikidata

Suggested itinerary

1. 1Walk from Takaoka Station to Daibutsu-ji, the Great Buddha of Takaoka
2. 2Pay respects to the Buddha and explore the pedestal and grounds at leisure
3. 3Continue by tram or on foot to sights such as Takaoka Kojo Park
4. 4Visit Takaoka copperware workshops and shops, then enjoy the city's cuisine

Did you know?

💡 Takaoka developed as a castle town linked to the Maeda family of Kaga and is known as a major center of copperware and metal casting. The Great Buddha of Takaoka is an emblematic product of that casting tradition, and locals sometimes fondly call it one of Japan's three great Buddhas.

Nearby spots