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The Buddha Statue of Aomori

The Showa Daibutsu, or Big Buddha is an impressive 20 meter statue of the Buddha. Perched on a rounded hill, and clearly visible for miles around, the Buddha is a must-see spot in Aomori.


When I first moved to Japan, this is one of the first sights I visited. The Showa Daibutsu, or Big Buddha, is an impressive 20 meter statue of the Buddha. Perched on a rounded hill, and clearly visible for miles around, the green patina shines over the city of Aomori.

The Japanese people view religion as a social norm, but do not necessariy subscribe to only one religion as most westerners do. Many claim to be both Shinto (a naturalistic reverence of kami or gods). There are plenty Buddhist temples and plenty Shinto shrines, sometimes standing right next to one another.

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At the Seiryu Temple complex, where the Buddha statue sits observing the wide green and manicured gardens, the orderliness and quiet emphasizes the peaceful tranquility of the zen meditation held each morning. Pilgrims, tourists, weekenders, and school groups like mine frequent the grounds, but you almost never hear too much noise.

There is also a restaurant where the tea kettle hangs over the open fire to welcome you to sit and relax.

Showa Buddha.

Author Bio: Corinne Vail is a travel photographer, food lover, and a perpetual traveler who has been travel writing for over 14 years. For many years she lived overseas in Germany, Japan, Turkey, South Korea, and the Netherlands teaching the children of the US. military. She’s visited over 90 countries, and she’s not stopping anytime soon.

Tom

Sunday 28th of April 2013

Love this shot. We're going to make it to Japan one of these days, and we hope to stay for a long time...or at least as long as the money holds out.

Corinne Vail

Sunday 28th of April 2013

Tom, You are going to love Japan! Money doesn't last long, but there are many ways to make it a little lighter on the wallet. Have fun planning!