Statues in Japan

Discover 46 unusual statues in Japan.

Kimi-Chan

This sculpture bears a tragic backstory that may have inspired a hauntingly beautiful children's song.

Gokōshiyui Amidabutu

This statue of Buddha has a distinctive hairstyle meant to represent an unfathomably long period of meditation.

Basho Memorial Statue

Once the park closes at sunset, the greatest haiku poet of all time moves to face the Sumida River.

‘Tora-san and His Sister’

Life-sized statues of two characters from a decades-long Japanese film series stand outside Shibamata station.

Sasaguri, Japan

Nanzoin Temple

A serene mountaintop temple complex featuring one big, bronze Buddha.

Jan Joosten Memorial

A commemoration of the first Dutchman to reach Japan, whose name still echoes in the heart of Tokyo.

Yonezawa, Japan

The Fountain of Ideas

Ward off bad luck and fill your bottle with "the most watery water" at this little roadside shrine in Yonezawa.

Shimonoseki, Japan

Ganryū-jima

The site of a famous samurai duel.

Nana-chan Mannequin

This giant fashion model is one of the most beloved symbols of Nagoya.

The Site of Yatate Hajime

The site where the poet Matsuo Bashō read one of the first haiku that comprise his famous travelogue.

Hotei Buddha

The largest privately owned statue of Buddha in Japan, built by a total amateur, with an unconventional look.

Berobero no Kamisama

This extremely naked God of Drunkards welcomes visitors to Kochi Station.

Itoshima, Japan

Raizan Sennyoji Daihioin Temple

A culturally significant rural temple in the beautiful mountains of Itoshima.

Moyai

Inspired by the famous sculptures on Easter Island, this head serves as a popular meeting spot by Shibuya Station.

Irugi Shrine

A 17th-century Shinto shrine that is home to statues of Mickey Mouse and Pikachu.

Heiwa no Chikai (Oath of Peace)

A statue meant to celebrate peace has also been interpreted as a mother taking away her son's internet privileges.