The towering Byakue Dai-Kannon looks over Takasaki. This 41.8-meter tall statue of the Goddess of Mercy stands within the grounds of Jigenin Temple and weighs nearly 6,000 tons.
If you are feeling up to it, you can walk up the 146 steps inside the statue to see unparalleled views of Takasaki. Admission fees are ¥300 for adults and ¥100 for children. If not, you can admire the statue from a distance. You can also appreciate the nearby Jigenin Temple, which is famous for enshrining 20 buddhas.
Most people come to visit the statue during spring and autumn. The cherry blossoms and maple leaves beautifully frame it, creating a stunning sight and even more stunning photos.
Make sure to stop by the nearby Kannon-chaya Shop for a snack and to pick up some Byakue Dai-Kannon-themed goods.
How to get there
It takes about 20 minutes to get here by bus. You will need to take the Kataokasaki Line from the west exit of Takasaki Station and get off at Byakue Kannon-mae. From there, it’s a 2-minute walk to the statue. If you want to visit the souvenir shops on the way to the shrine, get off at Kannonyamacho, the stop before, and walk for about 10 minutes.
By car, the statue is about 20 minutes away from Kanetsu Takasaki IC. Parking is available and costs ¥430 for regular cars and ¥730 for larger ones.
- 3.1 km from Takasaki Station Jōetsu ShinkansenHokuriku Shinkansen
