There is a Giant bronze Big Buddha statue located in Aomori city, which is about 1 1/2 hours from Misawa. It is almost 69 feet tall and weights 220 tons! It was built in 1984 and the Japanese go there to pray to their ancestors and for their dead children. There are also several different statues located throughout the park. I think the hardest thing about visiting these places as a Christian is knowing that there is a huge amount of idol/statue worship and that dead children are prayed to and made offerings to because their souls are considered in limbo, I can only explain it as a sometimes ‘creepy’ feeling. It has been interesting learning about Japanese beliefs and Buddhism. The park itself made for a nice stroll and scenery. Here are some pictures from the day.
Small building and statue, the building had some neat carvings on it
Vero says
What amazing sights! You are so lucky to be able to spend some time in a country that is so rich in culture. When is it that you are moving to AL?
Debbie says
Again, great pictures! Seeing your pictures makes me think I want to add Japan to my travel wish list. Thanks
Hazel Capalad says
This is another go-to place for the kids and I to see before their summer vacation ends.