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Tajima Daibutsu

4.2
·46 reviews·Kami, Japan

Marvel at the world's largest wooden carved gold leaf Buddha statues and climb Japan's second tallest pagoda.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Tajima Daibutsu - Image 1

Tajima Daibutsu

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Marvel at the world's largest wooden carved gold leaf Buddha statues and climb Japan's second tallest pagoda.

4.2
(46 reviews)

"It's amazing, it's so big! It's like a giant."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Rent a Car for Flexibility

Easier access and exploration of surrounding areas like Tottori.

📸 Climb the Pagoda for Views

Amazing photo opportunities of the temple and landscape.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Rating

4.2 · 46 reviews

Type

Place of Worship

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Three Giant Buddhas

The Three Giant Buddhas

Main Temple Hall

Marvel at the world's largest wooden carved gold leaf seated statues, each over 15 meters tall.

Reddit
Five-Story Pagoda

Five-Story Pagoda

Pagoda

Climb Japan's second tallest pagoda for breathtaking panoramic views of the temple grounds.

Reddit
Chorakuji Temple Grounds

Chorakuji Temple Grounds

Temple Complex

Explore the vibrant and well-maintained temple buildings, offering a striking visual experience.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Serenity

While Tajima Daibutsu is impressive year-round, consider visiting during weekdays to avoid crowds. Early mornings or late afternoons offer a more peaceful experience, allowing you to fully appreciate the grandeur of the giant Buddha statues and the pagoda without the hustle and bustle. Reddit

Getting There: A Scenic Journey

Tajima Daibutsu is located in a more remote area, making it a rewarding destination for those who enjoy scenic drives. Renting a car is often recommended for flexibility, especially if you plan to combine your visit with nearby attractions like Tottori or Kinosaki. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium
When
Late February
Why
Surprising snow
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🚗 Rent a Car for Flexibility

Easier access and exploration of surrounding areas like Tottori. Reddit

📸 Climb the Pagoda for Views

Amazing photo opportunities of the temple and landscape. Reddit

🙏 Appreciate the Details

Notice the 51 marble and gold leaf Buddhas on each pagoda floor. Reddit

✨ Visit in Original Glory

Though some dirt shows, imagine the statues in their shiny prime. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Rent a Car for Flexibility

Easier access and exploration of surrounding areas like Tottori. Reddit

📸 Climb the Pagoda for Views

Amazing photo opportunities of the temple and landscape. Reddit

🙏 Appreciate the Details

Notice the 51 marble and gold leaf Buddhas on each pagoda floor. Reddit

✨ Visit in Original Glory

Though some dirt shows, imagine the statues in their shiny prime. Reddit

🗺️ Combine with Nearby Spots

Consider Tottori or Kinosaki Onsen for a day trip. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.2
(46 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are consistently impressed by the sheer scale and beauty of Tajima Daibutsu's three giant wooden Buddha statues and its impressive five-story pagoda. Many highlight the stunning views from the pagoda and the well-maintained, visually striking temple grounds. While some note minor wear on the statues, the overall experience is described as awe-inspiring and well worth the journey, especially for those interested in Japanese religious art and architecture. Reddit

"Beautiful Temple!!! I went with my friends to see the giant buddhas in late February, and it was so worth the trip! The pagoda and the main temple building were gorgeous, in my opinion equal to that of Todaiji in Nara.

Chorakuji temple is newer than Todaiji, but what it lacks the history it makes up for in looks. Its youth means that the colors pop and stand out more, making it all the more memorable.

There are three main giant buddhas (bosatsu?) which are both impressive and imposing at the same time.

Climbing the stairs of the pagoda gives you an amazing view of the temple for photos.

Even in late Feb the area had quite a bit of snow piled up on the sides of roads and around the templez which surprised me.

I definitely recommend fans of Todaiji/ those interested in Japanese religions and history to go!!!

Despite its distance it is worth the trip, especially if you are in Hyogo prefecture already.

It is closest to Tottori and Kinosaki, so I would recommend doing those places on the same trip if possible since it is the same general area."

Emily Ramsauer

"It was a great Buddha statue that I'm really glad I came to see. It's a little disappointing that some dirt is starting to show, but I enjoyed gazing at the three golden Buddha statues for a long time. It made me want to see them in their original, shiny glory!"

BLUE RIDER

"Although it is not well known, you can worship three of the world's largest wooden Buddha statues and climb the five-story pagoda, which is the second tallest in Japan! ️
Both the elderly and children can easily climb the five-storied pagoda.
When you come here, you will feel grateful! ️"

Kou (Kou)

What People Like

Giant wooden Buddha statues
Second tallest pagoda
Scenic temple grounds

What People Dislike

Minor wear on statues

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Tajima Daibutsu is best accessed by car, offering the most flexibility for exploring the Hyogo prefecture. Public transport options are limited, so consider renting a car or arranging private transport. It's often visited in conjunction with Tottori or Kinosaki Onsen. Reddit

Tajima Daibutsu is located in a more rural part of Hyogo prefecture, making it a bit of a journey from major cities like Osaka or Kyoto. It's closer to Tottori and Kinosaki Onsen, making it a good stop if you're already in that region. Reddit

Once you arrive at Tajima Daibutsu, the temple grounds are walkable. However, for reaching the location and exploring nearby attractions, a car is highly recommended. Reddit

Yes, there are parking facilities available for visitors who arrive by car. This makes driving a convenient option for reaching the site. Reddit

While possible, a day trip from Osaka to Tajima Daibutsu would be a very long day due to travel time. It's more practical to combine it with a stay in the Hyogo or Tottori region. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The opening hours for Tajima Daibutsu are generally from morning to late afternoon. It's advisable to check the official website or local listings for the most up-to-date information, especially around holidays. Reddit

Admission to Tajima Daibutsu typically involves a fee for entry to the temple grounds and potentially for climbing the pagoda. Prices are generally reasonable, reflecting the value of the experience. Reddit

Advance booking is usually not required for Tajima Daibutsu, as it's not typically a high-volume tourist attraction requiring timed entry. You can usually purchase tickets upon arrival. Reddit

While not as frequently publicized as major attractions, it's always a good idea to check for any special events or potential closures, especially during national holidays or specific religious observances. Reddit

Yes, there is typically a separate fee to enter and climb the five-story pagoda at Tajima Daibutsu. This fee grants access to the upper floors and the stunning views they offer. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The top of the five-story pagoda offers incredible panoramic views for photography. The main temple hall with the giant Buddhas and the temple grounds themselves also provide excellent photo opportunities. Reddit

Photography rules can vary, but generally, photography is allowed in most outdoor areas and the main temple hall, though flash photography might be restricted to protect the artifacts. Always look for signage. Reddit

Drone usage is typically prohibited at religious sites like Tajima Daibutsu to ensure the peace and tranquility of the area and to respect visitors. Always check local regulations. Reddit

Late afternoons often provide beautiful golden hour lighting, enhancing the colors of the temple and statues. Early mornings can offer a serene atmosphere with fewer people. Reddit

Be mindful of any signs indicating restricted areas or specific photography rules, especially within sacred spaces or near religious artifacts. Respectful photography is key. Reddit

🎫 🙏 Onsite Experience

The main attraction is the awe-inspiring sight of the three world's largest wooden carved gold leaf seated Buddha statues, each standing over 15 meters tall. Reddit

Yes, both elderly visitors and children can easily climb the five-story pagoda, as the stairs are designed to be accessible. Reddit

The statues represent Shaka Nyorai (center), Amida Nyorai (left), and Yakushi Nyorai (right, holding a medicine jar), each with distinct spiritual roles in Buddhism. Reddit

Inside the pagoda, each floor features 51 marble and gold leaf Buddhas. The top floor houses a triad of Buddhas: Shaka Nyorai, Mahavairocana, and Amida Nyorai. Reddit

Tajima Daibutsu is generally less crowded than major tourist hubs like Todai-ji in Nara. Visiting on weekdays or during off-peak hours will ensure a more peaceful experience. Reddit

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