The Great Buddha of Takaoka

The Takaoka Great Buddha, one of Japan's three famous Great Buddhas along with those in Nara and Kamakura, is a bronze statue infused with the style and techniques of Takaoka's local bronze ware manufacturers. After 26 years of reconstruction starting in 1907, the final statue was completed. The first Great Buddha in Takaoka was made of wood by Yoshikatsu Minamoto around 800 years ago, and has been destroyed or burnt down multiple times, but always rebuilt due to public demand. Known as Japan's most handsome man, the Takaoka Great Buddha continues to be a beloved symbol of Takaoka, a city known for its exceptional bronze ware.