Cast in 1252, the 11.3m tall Amida Buddha (Daibutsu) statue in Kamakura is a must-see. I made my way there despite lugging plenty of convenience-dragging children’s stuff along.

We were lucky to be blessed with sunny weather. I suggest that you arrive there after you have your lunch. The sun will cast its golden rays on the Great Buddha, and you can take photos that explore the interplay of brightness and shadows.

It’s certainly a spectacular sight. I visited it in early December, but thanks to the complexities of climate change, I could view its magnificence juxtaposed against stunning autumn foliage.

When you are there, don’t forget to take a photo of these huge straw slippers.

I also paid ¥50 yen to have the privilege of peeking inside the Great Buddha. I don’t know, but seeing these curvatures on the back of Buddha’s head made me feel smarter or more enlightened or something. Its aura is infinite!

One final look at the second largest bronze Buddha statue in Japan.