
Ueno Daibutsu (Great Buddha Remains)
A serene local treasure featuring Japan's third-largest bronze Buddha statue, surrounded by peaceful gardens and stone idols.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy quiet contemplation

Ueno Daibutsu (Great Buddha Remains)
Best Time
Enjoy quiet contemplation

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene local treasure featuring Japan's third-largest bronze Buddha statue, surrounded by peaceful gardens and stone idols.
"A beautiful and peaceful temple, with various statues for paying respects, but the most outstanding is the Daibutsu."

🤫 Keep it a Local Secret
This spot is a cherished neighborhood gem. Enjoy the peace and quiet, and help keep it that way! :pray:
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby Nature
Combine your visit with the adjacent Botanical Gardens and castle ruins for a full day out. :evergreen_tree:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Great Buddha (Daibutsu)
Main temple grounds
A massive, serene bronze Buddha statue, Japan's third largest, offering a moment of quiet contemplation.
Stone Idols
Surrounding the Daibutsu
Dozens of smaller stone statues create a unique and somewhat somber atmosphere around the main Buddha.

Peaceful Temple Gardens
Throughout the grounds
Beautifully landscaped gardens offer a tranquil escape, perfect for a quiet stroll and reflection.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Serenity
Combine with Nearby Nature
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🤫 Keep it a Local Secret
This spot is a cherished neighborhood gem. Enjoy the peace and quiet, and help keep it that way!
:pray:🚶♀️ Explore Nearby Nature
Combine your visit with the adjacent Botanical Gardens and castle ruins for a full day out.
:evergreen_tree:Best way to get to Ushiku Daibutsu from Tokyo?
The Biggest of the Big! Largest Daibutsu (Large Buddha) Statue in Japan at 120m Tall! The Ushiku Daibutsu in Ushiku, Ibaraki!
📜 Goshuin Available (Paper Only)
You can get a goshuin here, but it's only provided on paper, not for your book.
:scroll:⏰ Check Closing Times
The temple closes relatively early, so plan your visit accordingly to avoid disappointment.
:clock1:Tips
from all over the internet
🤫 Keep it a Local Secret
This spot is a cherished neighborhood gem. Enjoy the peace and quiet, and help keep it that way!
:pray:🚶♀️ Explore Nearby Nature
Combine your visit with the adjacent Botanical Gardens and castle ruins for a full day out.
:evergreen_tree:📜 Goshuin Available (Paper Only)
You can get a goshuin here, but it's only provided on paper, not for your book.
:scroll:⏰ Check Closing Times
The temple closes relatively early, so plan your visit accordingly to avoid disappointment.
:clock1:🚲 Easy Bicycle Access
Cycling along the Arakawa River makes reaching the temple very convenient.
:bicycle:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Ueno Daibutsu for its peaceful atmosphere and the impressive Great Buddha statue, often noting it as an underrated local gem. Many appreciate the lack of crowds, making it a serene escape. Some mention the early closing times and the paper-only Goshuin as minor drawbacks.
"I love this small temple. There are no large tourist crowds, and it's peaceful. They close early, but it's a must-see if you are in Itabashi and are interested in visiting temples. It would take less than an hour to see everything-maybe 30 minutes, but it's next to the botanical garden. And walking distance to the castle ruins and the drippy waterfall."
Christy M
"A beautiful and peaceful temple, with various statues for paying respects, but the most outstanding is the Daibutsu. They also offer goshuin, but only on paper, they not provide written version in your goshuin book."
Supavit Kiatteerarat
"Beautiful area and botanical garden just steps away. Worth the journey over to this part of the city"
Kimberly McGehee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ueno Daibutsu is accessible via public transport. You can take a train to Itabashi Station and then it's a walk or a short bus ride. Some visitors find cycling along the Arakawa River a pleasant and convenient option.
While it's a local treasure, it's not always heavily signposted for international tourists. Using a navigation app on your phone is recommended. It's often mentioned in conjunction with the nearby Botanical Gardens.
Many visitors suggest that cycling along the Arakawa River offers a scenic and straightforward route. Public transport via train to Itabashi Station is also a common choice.
Yes, there is parking available, which can be convenient if you're arriving by car or bicycle. However, be aware that food stalls are not always present in the parking lot.
The grounds are relatively flat and peaceful, making it generally accessible. However, it's always a good idea to check specific accessibility details if needed.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Ueno Daibutsu grounds is generally free, making it an accessible attraction. However, specific areas or events might have associated fees.
The temple closes relatively early, so it's important to check the exact closing time before your visit to ensure you have enough time to explore.
Yes, you can obtain a Goshuin here. However, they are provided on paper and not directly written into your Goshuin book.
The main attraction, the Great Buddha statue, is part of the temple grounds and typically does not have a separate admission fee.
While generally peaceful, popular holidays like New Year's Day can see longer waits. It's always wise to check for any special event schedules or temporary closures.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted within the temple grounds, allowing you to capture the serene Buddha statue and gardens. Be mindful of any specific signage regarding photography in certain areas.
The area directly in front of the Great Buddha statue offers the most iconic shots. The surrounding gardens also provide beautiful, tranquil backdrops for your photos.
Yes, you can photograph the numerous stone idols surrounding the Daibutsu. Their unique presence adds to the atmosphere and visual interest of the site.
As with most religious sites in Japan, drone usage is likely restricted or prohibited. It's best to avoid bringing drones to respect the sanctity of the location.
Morning light can be soft and beautiful for photographing the Buddha and gardens. Late afternoon can also offer pleasant lighting before the temple closes.
🎫 🌳 Nearby Attractions
Ueno Daibutsu is adjacent to the beautiful Itabashi Botanical Garden, which is highly recommended, especially in fall and spring. Castle ruins and a waterfall are also within walking distance.
The Botanical Garden is just steps away from the temple grounds, making it incredibly convenient to visit both in one outing.
Yes, the castle ruins are within walking distance and offer a glimpse into the area's history, complementing the spiritual experience of the temple.
Absolutely. You can comfortably see both attractions in a half-day, especially if you focus on the main highlights of each.
The Botanical Garden is known for its beauty, particularly during the autumn and spring seasons, offering a peaceful and scenic complement to the temple visit.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting on a weekday to ensure a more relaxed experience. While there aren't specific play areas, the open grounds and the natural beauty of the adjacent gardens provide ample space for children to enjoy. Pack some snacks, as food vendors are not always present.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
Combine your visit with a stroll through the Botanical Garden or explore the nearby castle ruins for a fulfilling solo outing. The ease of access via bicycle along the Arakawa River also makes it a convenient option for independent exploration.
📸 Photographers
Morning light often yields soft, beautiful illumination for capturing the serenity of the site. Don't forget to explore the adjacent Botanical Garden for vibrant floral subjects and picturesque landscapes, especially during peak seasons.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of the Great Buddha
Many visitors express surprise at the peacefulness and lack of crowds, noting it as a refreshing change from more heavily touristed sites. This tranquility allows for a more personal connection with the spiritual essence of the place. The temple also offers Goshuin, a traditional calligraphy stamp, though it's provided on paper rather than directly in a visitor's book.
The serene setting and the imposing presence of the Daibutsu make it a place for quiet reflection. It's a spot that locals cherish as a neighborhood treasure, and its understated charm is part of its appeal.
Exploring the Surrounding Natural Beauty
Beyond the gardens, you can also discover castle ruins and a charming waterfall within walking distance. These elements add layers of historical and natural interest to your visit, making it possible to curate a half-day or even a full day of exploration in the area.
Combining these nearby sites with the Ueno Daibutsu provides a well-rounded experience, showcasing not only spiritual heritage but also the natural and historical richness of the locale. It's an opportunity to appreciate the diverse offerings of this often-overlooked part of the city.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit