The Great Buddha of Kamakura: A Splendid Sight for All Seasons

Autumn view of the Kamakura Daibutsu, with vibrant yellow ginkgo trees in the background. (© Harada Hiroshi)

The temple building’s foundation stones are two meters across. (© Harada Hiroshi)

The windows in the back of the statue now let light in. (© Harada Hiroshi)

Inside the statue, seams from casting are clearly visible. (© Harada Hiroshi)

Faint traces of gold leaf linger on the Buddha’s face. (© Harada Hiroshi)

Cherry blossoms in spring. (© Harada Hiroshi)

The fresh green foliage of early summer. (© Harada Hiroshi)

Blooming crepe myrtle in high summer. (© Harada Hiroshi)

Brilliantly colored maples in autumn. (© Harada Hiroshi)

The main approach in gentle rain. (© Harada Hiroshi)

In winter, some lucky visitors may see a snow-clad Daibutsu. (© Harada Hiroshi)

The illuminated Daibutsu, with a new moon in the distance. (© Harada Hiroshi)